URGENT UPDATE: The much-anticipated £195 beef wellington from Marks & Spencer (M&S) has officially sold out nationwide, leaving customers buzzing with excitement and skepticism. Claudia Connell, who tasted the high-priced dish, shares her surprising verdict just after its release on December 22, 2025.
As shoppers flocked to M&S for their festive meals, the beef wellington created by Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge quickly became a hot topic. Connell’s experience mirrors the frenzy of concert ticket sales, as she faced a crashing online ordering platform while securing this luxurious centerpiece.
M&S, which recently suffered a £324 million loss due to cyber attacks, has marketed the wellington as a “Christmas Eve showstopper,” defending its hefty price tag by emphasizing quality and taste. “Guests will be speechless,” the brand promises, but is it really worth the splurge?
Connell arrived at her local M&S in Brighton at 8:30 AM to collect her order. Weighing 2.1 kg (4.6 lb) and designed to serve six, she noted that the packaging exuded elegance. However, the confusion over serving sizes among competing brands left her questioning just how much of a feast this wellington truly offers.
Inside the box, a message from Kerridge emphasized the joy of sharing good food without the stress of cooking. Following detailed cooking instructions, Connell was determined to get it right. She carefully followed each step, ensuring the pastry remained perfectly sealed and avoiding the dreaded soggy bottom.
After the cooking time elapsed, the wellington emerged from the oven as a stunning centerpiece. Connell described the glossy, all-butter pastry and the aroma that filled her kitchen. Yet, when she cut into it, she was surprised by the tenderness of the beef, which she found cooked to a perfect medium-rare.
As she savored her first bite, Connell felt as though she had discovered culinary heaven. The combination of tender beef, earthy mushroom duxelles, and rich chicken mousse flavored with black truffle left her overwhelmed with flavor. However, the indulgence comes at a price: each slice packs in 501 calories, roughly the same as a McDonald’s Big Mac.
Despite concerns over the portion size, Connell concluded that the dish’s impressive taste justifies the expense. “You’re in for a delicious treat that’s worth the overdraft,” she stated. This wellington not only satisfied her culinary expectations but also became an eye-catching addition to her holiday table.
As the festive season approaches, the M&S beef wellington has sparked conversations about extravagant holiday meals. With its impressive taste and presentation, it may just be the showstopper that elevates any Christmas gathering. For those who splurged, the verdict is clear: this is a treat worth sharing.
Stay tuned for more updates as festive food trends continue to unfold!
