Restaurants

The level of cultural interchange between New York and London these days is such that the Eagle Bar Diner feels more generically urban than specifically American. There’s no memorabilia and no fancy-dressed staff: just a long, plainly decorated and ever so slightly careworn room lined with smart booths and plain tables. As the name suggests, the Eagle leads a double life. It’s essentially a drinking den at night, but things are calmer during the day, when the stereo is mercifully turned down and the menu of diner staples becomes a more appealing prospect. The best bets remain the burgers; the Eagle was among the first of London’s nouveau burger joints, and the house speciality matches that of any local rival. Elsewhere on the menu, the barbecue ribs won’t give Bodean’s any cause for concern, while the sausage and mash is below gastropub standard. On the other hand, the breakfasts are reliable, while the unsubtle but generous desserts and the terrific malts (try the Elvis-esque peanut butter and banana variety) sate the sweet of tooth. Service varies from over-enthusiastic to diffident, but sometimes strikes the right note.

Time Out Eating & Drinking Guide 2009