Last Updated on July 29, 2024
Southern Delights: A Taste of Authentic Southern Cuisine London’s Haymarket
Americana, London’s new Southern American Restaurant – has it got what it takes to impress the Brits? Located in a prime spot, right in the heart of Theatreland on Haymarket, the exterior captures the essence of Southern American charm while rubbing shoulders with London’s iconic architecture and bustling streets.
Step inside this grand building and you’ll find a charming restaurant that spans two floors. The décor exudes a chic vibe, reminiscent of an upscale American diner with a splash of Art Deco flair. Plush apricot velvet and racing green leather horseshoe banquettes invite you to sink in, while marble-topped tables, tiled walls, glass dividers, and large art deco metal and glass ceiling lamps add an air of sophistication. Lush green foliage plants and an open kitchen complete the picture.
The friendly staff at Americana know how to make you feel welcome. We sat in the main restaurant, where the tunes of the 60s American pop-soul serenade your ears. We took a moment to peruse their cocktail menu, which features a selection of signature cocktails and some old favourites. The Texas Lemonade 12 was a light and refreshing combo of Tito’s Handmade Vodka infused with cucumber, lemon, and agave. My Chilli Guavarta took me right back to Mexico, with its Olmeca Silver Tequila, Ancho Reyes Red, guava, chilli, lime, agave and Mexican spiced rim.
We were ready to dive into the Americana culinary adventure, having come to try out the new menu. The à la carte menu is available seven days a week and offers an excellent range of classic Southern dishes. I started with their Americana Cajun Gumbo, a flavoursome blend of smoked sausage, chicken and holy trinity. It was gloriously rich and spicy with a touch of sweetness from the sweet peppers, served with some scrumptious homemade cornbread.
My companion chose the Lump Blue Crab Cake – it was packed with juicy meat and perfectly balanced in terms of density, complimented by spiced homemade tartar sauce which added an extra layer of deliciousness.
Next, we explored Americana’s wine list, which features some premium American wines alongside quality selections from around the world. Our choice for the evening was the Vinho Verde Alvarinho Reserva, Azevedo 2021 from Portugal, fresh and fruity, with citrus and melon notes.
When it came to the main courses, Americana didn’t disappoint. They offered American-style burgers, both vegan and beef patties with all the trimmings, as well as slow-smoked baby back pork ribs, Creole jambalaya fettucine, and a prime rib-eye steak.
My taste buds danced with delight as I savoured the Buttermilk Fried Chicken Burger—a tender, juicy classic with a springy seeded brioche bun, Mississippi comeback sauce, slaw, and fantastic French fries.
The Blackened Seared Salmon was a hot and crisp sensation, swimming in a savoury sauce, served with perfectly seasoned tender-stem broccoli and french beans. For a touch of freshness, we enjoyed a side salad with a sweet and tangy dressing.
Americana tempted us with several mouth-watering dessert options. In the end, we couldn’t resist the allure of the classic Alabama Pecan Pie, served with Chantilly cream, cherry gel, and toasted pecans.
Whether you’re in the mood for brunch, lunch, or dinner, Americana keeps its doors open until the early hours, making it perfect for a business lunch, a pre, or post-show meal, a gathering with friends, a family celebration, or even a late-night drink at their enchanting bar. With its prime location, relaxed Southern hospitality, and authentic Southern American fare it’s sure to please.
Open 7 days a week
Monday — Friday
12.00pm – 1.00am
Saturday
11.00 am – 1.00am
Sunday
11.00am – 8.00pm
Americana
11 Haymarket
London
SW1Y 4BP
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