Chicago Rib Shack
photo: Cindy Chen
For expats (or vacationers) looking to celebrate the anniversary of the good ol' USA, here are some restaurants planning special 4 July events.
Big Easy: Starting on Friday, there will be a picnic deal that includes Southern fried chicken with coleslaw, watermelon and a red, blue or white margarita (£14.95). On 4–5 July, a brunch special will also be offered from noon–4 PM, with chicken wings, barbecue ribs, coleslaw, beans and apple pie (£14.95). If you like to stare down danger, you might want to take part in the annual rib-eating contest – that is, if you feel you have what it takes to beat the record of nine racks (020-7352-4071).
Bodeans: The 'cue chain is offering a surf ’n’ turf special from 1–5 July that includes a whole ¾-lb. lobster, 5-oz. rump steak, fries and a side salad for £17.76, in honour of the original date of U.S. independence (multiple locations).
Chicago Rib Shack: The "All-American Weekend" planned for 3–5 July includes live music and entertainment and a special breakfast of favorites like bagels, waffles, pancakes and scrambled eggs (10 AM–noon; 020-7591-4664). To receive a 2-for-1 promotion on the meal, click here).
Picnic in Portman Square Garden: Democrats Abroad UK is holding an old-fashioned American picnic with Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, watermelon and various food vendors, plus live music, games and face-painting for the kids. Non-Americans can attend, but only U.S. citizens can pay for the tickets, and proceeds from the event support the organization's voter registration drive (3–7 PM; £5 entry fee; bring your own blanket; for more information visit www.democratsabroad.org and RSVP at events@democratsabroad.org.uk).
For more places to celebrate on the 4th, here's our list of London's top-rated American restaurants: