Andy Devaney
If you’re the sort of fan who believes rugby is best served with fine wine and sharper banter, clear your diary. This autumn, Rugby Legends from both sides of the equator are descending on London for a pair of lunches that promise more punchlines than a post-match pint.
Hosted by former England prop David Flatman and ex-Wales centre Tom Shanklin—better known to fans as the quick-witted duo Flats & Shanks—the events will bring supporters face-to-face with two southern hemisphere greats: Wallabies maestro Michael Lynagh and All Blacks icon Justin Marshall.
These Rugby Legends lunches, taking place at two of Urban Pubs & Bars’ flagship City venues, are perfectly timed to coincide with England’s Autumn Internationals at Twickenham. Expect world-class food, southern hemisphere wine, and candid storytelling that’s as unfiltered as a scrum mic on live TV.
A Feast of Rugby and Fine Dining
On October 29, The Singer Tavern in Old Street welcomes World Cup-winning fly-half Michael Lynagh—a man whose boot and brain helped redefine Australian rugby.
Over a three-course meal that includes slow-braised beef shin with truffle mash and a crisp-skinned sea bass with citrus beurre blanc, Lynagh will lift the lid on his glittering career, captaincy, and that cool composure only fly-halves seem to possess.
Guests can enjoy perfectly paired wines from Peter Lehmann Wines while getting the rare chance to quiz Lynagh in a live audience Q&A led by Flats & Shanks. Expect honesty, humour, and maybe a few tales that never made the broadcast.
Two weeks later, on November 12, the focus shifts to Farringdon’s Harrild & Sons, where 81-cap All Black and Crusaders legend Justin Marshall takes centre stage. Known for his relentless drive and straight-talking analysis,
Marshall remains one of rugby’s most colourful characters—on and off the pitch. With five Super Rugby titles to his name, he’ll share stories from the dressing room, the road, and his transition into the commentary booth, all while guests enjoy wines from Heaphy Wines of New Zealand.
More Than Just a Lunch
Urban Pubs & Bars are billing these as experiences rather than events—and for good reason. Each Rugby Legends lunch features a curated menu crafted by top chefs, complemented by guided wine tastings straight from the southern hemisphere’s finest vineyards. The blend of sport, storytelling, and gastronomy is designed to hit the sweet spot between match-day camaraderie and fine dining flair.
As always, Flats & Shanks will bring their trademark chemistry to the stage, steering conversation with the perfect mix of insight and irreverence. Their ability to draw out stories—and laughs—makes them the ideal hosts for an afternoon where the food and banter will both go down smooth.
James Metcalfe, Sales & Marketing Director at Urban Pubs & Bars, summed it up neatly: “After the success of the Lions Tour this Summer, we’re really looking forward to the Autumn Internationals, and what better way to kick things off than with some unique rugby lunches in our flagship city venues.
We’re bringing together two Southern Hemisphere legends, pairing them with celebrated winemakers and two of rugby’s most entertaining personalities in Flats and Shanks, all in the ideal setting of our City venues. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the Autumn Internationals, and we can’t wait to welcome fans throughout the Autumn.”
The Details
🎟️ Tickets include: three-course lunch, southern hemisphere wine pairings, guided tasting, and unfiltered access to two Rugby Legends.
Spaces are limited, and with this calibre of company, they won’t last long. So, if you fancy lunch with a World Cup winner, a Crusaders legend, and two of rugby’s best raconteurs, grab your tickets before the final whistle blows.
