It’s the 4th of July and it’s arguably the biggest holiday of the year for the United States. We may no longer be joined at the hip like we used to be, but our ‘special relationship’ still transcends politics and extends into cuisine. So with that, we’ve taken a look at the best places in Brighton to pick up some all-American grub!
If it’s a burger that you crave this 4th July, there is no shortage of options. Obviously a good place to start would be one of the chains in the Lanes such as Gourmet Burger Kitchen or Burgers and Cocktails. Both are rather similar in premise – crazy combinations with a range of different patties to choose from, each tastier than the last. However, while both chains are renowned for their burgers, one pub just down the road stands above all. Waggon and Horses serve burgers of all kinds, both traditional and unorthodox but all are equally delicious.
Here in Brighton, it’s very easy to turn your nose up at something like fried chicken. It is, however, a delight from the United States’ southern states which can match any meal if done right. Now I’m not talking about your post-night out binge at the likes of Chick’s or RFC – I’m talking the real deal. Difficult to find, but not impossible, there are a few eateries which bring this American classic up a notch. The famous Meat Liquor do a range of fried chicken dishes, namely their trademarked Monkey Fingers, but Smokey’s is also an impressive establishment which can satiate your fried food desires.
Smokey’s also caters to another of the United States’ great traditions – barbecue. A traditionally Carolinian delicacy, barbecue food has morphed from cuisine into art form and there are some who would insist it is even a refined science. While Smokey’s stakes an admirable claim, however, The World’s End on London Road boasts the best barbecue in town. While primarily a pub, built-in BBQ shack serves smokey ribs, hot and spicy wings as well as traditional sides such as delicious green beans and creamy corn. For a taste of what we lost when the 13 colonies broke away, there’s probably no better place than there.
However if your pallet fancies something to start the day right, you might be after some syrup-soaked pancakes or some hot, buttery waffles. For the former, The Breakfast Club works pretty well. Thick and spongy American pancakes are served with a portion of thick, gooey maple syrup which is sure to satisfy any transatlantic hankerings. If you’re after something even sweeter, the Creams franchise has you covered. While they pride themselves on Italian gelato, their waffles represent a great American treat – especially their Oreo and PBJ flavours.
Finally, if you fancy something to wet the whistle, look no further than JB’s Diner. No sooner than stepping foot in there, you could just as easily have stepped into Grease and their selection of milkshakes, floats and beer is sure to entice and delight in equal measure. An indulgent five scoops of ice cream goes into one milkshake and for under a fiver, there’s really no going wrong, while Coors Light and Budweiser appear alongside Blue Moon and Brooklyn Lager to complete a stellar American drinks menu.
So while we may be 4,000 miles away and no longer nationally linked, be sure to raise a glass, fork or chicken wing today to our food-crazy cousins!
Which of these will you go to this 4th July? We’d love to know your favourite American eats from Brighton!
Matt Cowdock, @MattCowdock, matt@brightonjournal.co.uk
