Big Red is an homage to American dive biker bars sans the bikers.

The Venue
Cosy up in one of the many dark booths lit not by wine bottles covered with the wax of dripping candles but with Jack Daniels bottles. The general theme of the bar seems to be Jack Daniels glam, even the felt on all four pool tables at the back of the bar is Jack Daniels print. The bar is littered with games to play including pinball, foosball, fruit machines - and the pool cues are in very decent shape. If you are not interested in the games, there are flat screen TVs dotted around Big Red that show Westerns when there’s no sport.

The bar itself is dark lit with hardwood floors, a cast iron stove and a conveniently located bar at the centre of the venue. On the red brick walls you will find posters of anything from American football team flags, movie posters from the 1970s, Playboy pinups, Johnny Cash and classic American Cars.

The Atmosphere
On the weekends, Big Red can get very packed but on a week night there is just enough people to keep the bar lively without it being crowded. The staff are full bodied raven haired rock chicks, who are quick with the drinks and happy to have a bit of a chat. Big Red attracts people from all walks of life although the scales tip towards goths and rockers. With London Metropolitan University located nearby the odd student drinks here and it is a big spot for the after work crowd.

There are two modern juke boxes mounted to the wall at both ends of the bar, which play mostly American rock but contain the odd country and western tune with a bit of heavy metal thrown in for good measure. The music is played a bit loud but then again that is how rock is meant to be played.

The Food
If you’re an American lost in England and are hungry for food from your homeland this is the place to come. They serve fajitas (£9.95), nachos (£4 small portion £7 for the large), buffalo wings (£3.50) and hot dogs (£3.50) for snacks alongside bigger mains. Try the steak (9.50) or classic ribs (12.50). The best part of the meal is when the condiments and utensils are brought to you in Corona boxes.

The Drink
There is a full bar capable of producing all the classic drinks, although there’s nothing fancy that would require a cocktail umbrella. Being surrounded by all the Jack Daniels merchandise may get you in the mood for a shot. Alternatively try a bottled Coors Light, the signature drink for any red blooded American man.

They have red and white wine to choose from but there’s nothing extravagant. On draught they have San Miguel, Heineken, Fosters, Grolsch, Amstel Light, John Smiths Extra Cold, Strongbow and Carlsberg. The prices are pretty average with a pint costing around £3.

The Last Word
Yes it’s a dive bar but it’s intended that way. It is almost a parody of what the British think an American bar should be. It’s retro, it’s kitsch, it’s rock and roll - and it works.

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