I found myself in agreement with Grace Dent’s review of Simpson’s-in-the-Strand (located in London WC2) titled “A rollicking list of cosy British joys,” published on April 12. This establishment has a rich history, having welcomed notable figures such as Charlie Chaplin and Grock in its earlier days. It later became a favored spot for comedian Max Wall, who delighted in the traditional English dishes offered on the menu. My close friend, writer Michael Pointon, and I often enjoyed relaxed lunches there, during which Max would regale us with stories from his days in variety entertainment. His usual order consisted of roast leg of lamb, followed by treacle pudding, all complemented by a bottle of Beaujolais Villages.

On a spring day in 1990, after finishing our meal and witnessing Max’s playful interactions with the attentive staff, he unfortunately fell down the steep staircase. He remained unconscious until an ambulance arrived to transport him to Westminster Hospital, where he tragically passed away that evening.

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