13 Exeter Street,
London,
WC2E 7DT
0872 148 3978
The ViewLondon Review
General Price Guide: Moderate.
Location and Punters:
Joe Allen’s is a well-established American-style restaurant, a popular place to be spotted and the ideal venue for a bit of star-gazing. A secluded, discreet entrance leads down to the basement restaurant. The nearest tube station is Covent Garden.
Atmosphere and Décor:
The atmosphere is lively and up-beat, despite the rather dull and uninspiring décor and it seems not much has been done, over the years, to update the fittings and furnishings. The setting certainly lags behind the up-to-the-minute menu and ambience. Punters should note that they are firmly requested to "Refrain from Cigar and Pipe Smoking". Service is friendly and obliging.
Nosh and Drinks:
Originally an entirely American restaurant serving mainly hamburgers and steaks, Joe Allen has gradually extended its repertoire to incorporate modern European, Asian and British favourites. Consequently, the menu has grown in length, as items have been tagged on and now looks as if it’s in dire need of spot of rationalisation! Having said that, the choice is excellent and there is something to suit everyone and the menu changes regularly.
Typical starters include Parma Ham with Soft Herbs and Pecorino, Pecan-Crusted Goat’s Cheese with Fruit Chutney, or Smoked Salmon with Cream Cheese, Chives and Cracked Pepper.
There is a good range of salads and side orders and it is easy to "mix and match" the various courses. Main dishes include Pan Fried Sea Bass with Sautéed Mange-Touts and Lemon Butter Sauce, Vegetable Lasagne with Escarole and Rocket Pesto and Barbecue Spare Ribs with Rice and Spinach.
Desserts are scrumptious. It really is difficult to choose between the Pecan Pie, the Brownies and Rum, Raisin and Chocolate Cake with Rum Sauce! The wine list is good and there are some interesting dessert wines such as Essenia (an Orange Muscat) and Elysium (a Black Muscat) to round off the meal.
The Experience:
The food is good, straightforward stuff; the atmosphere is great fun.