cakes and ale

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cakes′ and ale′

n.pl.

worldly or material pleasures.

References in classic literature ?

"Better beans and bacon in peace than cakes and ale in fear."

CAKES AND ALE: THE GOLDEN AGE OF BRITISH FEASTING uses antique ads and writings about the Victorian and Edwardian habits of throwing elaborate dinner parties to explore the rise of home cooking and the temptations of drinking outside the home, offering spicy chapters packed with lively social history.

Cakes and Ale

The Oxford-based theatre company Cakes and Ale, which Matt joined after leaving Manchester University, is performing All's Well That Ends Well to raise money for Matt.