Angus Steakhouse Piccadilly Circus
Restaurant | London | England | United Kingdom
The "Angus Steakhouse Piccadilly Circus" in London, England, is an iconic restaurant located in the heart of the West End near the vibrant Piccadilly Circus. It is part of a long-standing chain founded in 1968 and is considered London's original steakhouse. Originally created by entrepreneur Reginald Eastwood, who drew inspiration from American steakhouses, Angus Steakhouse has built a reputation over the decades for high-quality steaks and a welcoming atmosphere. Today, the chain operates multiple locations in central London, with the Piccadilly Circus operation serving as the flagship and attracting visitors from around the world – from tourists to theater-goers to locals seeking a reliable culinary experience.
The atmosphere at "Angus Steakhouse Piccadilly Circus" is a mix of classic charm and contemporary comfort. The restaurant spans multiple levels, with the main dining room offering a warm, inviting ambiance with dark wood tones, soft seating, and subtle lighting reminiscent of the opulence of the 1960s. Large windows provide a view of the bustling activity of Piccadilly Circus, giving the dining experience a vibrant, urban backdrop. Particularly notable is the "Angus Executive" area on the first floor, a separate space with a private bar and views of the famous neon signs, ideal for celebrations or corporate events. The background music featuring hits from the 80s adds a nostalgic touch to the ambiance, uplifting the atmosphere, although some may find it a bit loud.
Culinarily, "Angus Steakhouse" is known for its top-notch meat dishes with over 50 years of experience. The name itself refers to the Aberdeen Angus cattle breed, whose high-quality meat from the Las Pampas region in South America forms the heart of the menu. A highlight is the *Ribeye on the Bone*, a juicy steak with a robust flavor, grilled over an open flame and delighting with its perfect marbling. Equally popular are the *BBQ Pork Ribs*, coated in a spicy, sweet glaze and impressing with their tender texture, often accompanied by *Beef Dripping Fries* – crispy fries fried in beef fat offering an irresistible depth of flavor. For those who don't eat meat, there are alternatives such as grilled fish or vegetarian dishes prepared with the same care. To finish, the *Sticky Toffee Pudding* beckons, a rich dessert with warm caramel sauce providing the perfect contrast to the hearty main course.
The service at "Angus Steakhouse Piccadilly Circus" is often described as warm and attentive, with staff striving to provide guests with a pleasant experience. The service is friendly and efficient, although there may be minor delays on particularly busy days – a circumstance not surprising given the central location and high visitor numbers. The restaurant is family-friendly, offering special deals like free kids' menus at certain times, making it attractive for parents as well. Additionally, there is an extensive drink menu featuring cocktails, beers, and wines that perfectly complement the dishes, with the house Yorkshire beer adding a regional touch.
"Angus Steakhouse Piccadilly Circus" is a place that prioritizes tradition and quality without aiming for excessive extravagance. It has adapted to changing times over the decades – from the heights of the tourist boom in the 1970s to challenges like the BSE crisis in the 1990s – yet remains a reliable destination for steak lovers. Its central location makes it the perfect stop after a theater visit or a day in the city, and the option to book private events in the "Angus Executive" expands its offerings for special occasions.
Overall, "Angus Steakhouse Piccadilly Circus" impresses with excellent value for money and an experience that combines quality with accessibility. Criticism is rare, although some guests may occasionally point out inconsistencies in the doneness of the steaks or a slightly old-fashioned vibe in the ambiance – aspects that are often seen as part of its authentic character. For anyone visiting London and seeking a classic steakhouse experience with a touch of history, "Angus Steakhouse Piccadilly Circus" is an absolute highlight – a place that leaves a lasting impression with its flavors, atmosphere, and central location.
