Spit and sawdust

Originally a British phrase describing a basic, low class tavern where sawdust was strewn on the floor to soak up both spillages and spitting of patrons. It dates in this literal sense from the 18th century but since the late 20th century it is used figuratively to describe any basic, no frills offering. A new and very successful pub called ‘The Spit and Sawdust’ was opened in London’s Elephant & Castle district in 2016. It does not have sawdust, nor does it allow spitting.