REVIEW: JOE ALLEN

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London’s surge into American food we dived back to a joint that has been knocking out top dollar American grub for years, 36 of them to be exact. The basement restaurant of Joe Allen is also a prime spot in Covent Garden where many a film star has frequented…does frequent. The exposed brickwork interior boasts photographs memorabilia from the past 4 decades.

Back in the day, in 1977 to be exact, the site was founded on Wellington Street, but instead of using the front door, the owners put out a window in the adjoining side street, and the entrance was marked only by a small brass plaque. Those in the know, know.

Ordering from the set menu £19.50 for three courses and the A la Carte, we gently warmed the appetite with Roast Chicken and Ham croquettes, light and crispy balls with a soft filling and green mayo dip. Mains of juicy ribs were coated in a BBQ sauce whilst the healthy choice of whole lobster came on a plate pilled high with shoestring fries. The side salad of tomato and onion is well worthy of a shout out too…

Desserts came in the form of double chocolate and hazelnut ice cream with chocolate sauce, rich and creamy it hit the spot. Joe Allen is an old school place that knows what works and does it well. Check out the secret burger, it’s not on the menu but we hear it’s the dogs bollocks…

Joe Allen, 13 Exeter St, London, WC2E 7TD
www.joeallen.co.uk