Situated just off Covent Garden piazza is Joe’s Southern Kitchen & Bar. Perfectly positioned near the shops and big West End theatres, Joe’s is ideal for some pre-show or post-shopping dinner and drinks.
The Venue
I had often wandered past Joe’s and been impressed by the vibrant red brick walls, inviting neon sign and all round striking American feel. When I finally got through those doors I was met with a warm welcome and offered a prime seat at the bar. One of the first things I noticed was the once ornate candelabra perched atop the bar. Impressively, it has been left to accumulate years of wax from the candles they burn in it. It now much more resembles a piece of ornate artwork, rather than a chandelier, and is a great talking point for guests.
Choose from a vast array of drinks behind the bar at Joe's.
The Atmosphere and Clientele
Everyone else there seemed to be having as much fun as I was, all pondering the menu with the same amount of careful deliberation. The staff were happy to chat and were positively American in their friendliness and English in their politeness - a wonderful mix when it comes to service!
Be tempted in by their glowing and welcoming sign, and then stay for the food and drinks.
The Food and Drinks
We were presented with a bowl of complementary spicy peanuts the second I sat down (great start, as these proved to be incredibly moreish). The drinks menu was not only varied, but vast too. To my amazement there were two full pages dedicated to tequilas and mezcals. Spoilt for choice, I eventually decided on a cocktail. The barman was in good spirits and, though I arrived just as happy hour ended, still gave me my minty Mojito for the merry price of £4.
Having spent three months backpacking in America on my gap year, I feel I am something of an authority on the subject of USA cuisine. I started with Popcorn Shrimp from the bar menu; these turned out to be little bites of loveliness, served with chilli lime salsa. Next, I moved on to a ‘Big Apple’ Hot Dog served with mustard mayo, spiced ketchup and caramelised herb onions. It was equally delicious (but probably more glamorous) version of the aluminium foil wrapped dog I had at the Dodgers baseball game in LA. Authentic? Definitely.
Delight in the American fare and stuff yourself silly...
Summary
Next time, and there will be a next time, I will try the Southern Fried Chicken with Joe’s slaw and maybe have the barman select a tequila for me. As long as it’s not a mezcal, that stuff is strong. Joe's is perfect for the hungry and thirsty in Covent Garden, brimming with authenticity, it's a real experience.
