Well, it’s legendary status in New York has understandably peaked the interest of ex-pats and burger lovers, despite coming into an arena already heaving with every kind of burger outlet you can think of. So if you’re after a meal that will trump some of the finest in town and absolutely blow your mind, you won’t quite get that here. However, what you will get is pretty darn good meal that prides itself on freshness, in fanciful surroundings (gotta love Covent Garden!) and presented with a neatness that adds to the novelty of a fast food-cum-bougie burger bar.

The Shack Burger is a simple, compact sandwich that can come as a double and is served with the softest bun we’ve ever tasted – so a definite  thumbs up for that. But we preferred the super tasty Shack-cago dog, and it’s lavish dressing of relish, onion, cucumber, pickle, tomato, sport pepper, celery salt and mustard.

Add to that a side of awesome crinkle fries washed down with a shake-made lemonade and you can see why Shake Shack’s quite a fun visit as they do what they do well. But If the mains don’t woo you, the frozen custards probably will, coming plain and simple or in a range of creative flavours that change every month.

Much has been said about the pricing at Shake Shack (which is a tad steepish for what you get), but the trade-off is a uniquely American experience with a pretty cool menu that’ll save you the plane ticket abroad.

For more info, visit: www.shakeshack.co.uk

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Speakeasy bars, of course, are nothing new, taking inspiration from the 1920s and 30s US prohibition laws, where  people were forced to head to clandestine back room bars in search of a little tipple. These days, speakeasies can be found in every major city in the world. Flat P is as genuine as you can get, and basks in candlelit darkness like an unattended, but gorgeously furnished, film set. Seating is sparse, with a choice of velvet benches or  bar seats, and the music runs towards 1930s war tunes rather than the latest top 10. In the halflight, the cocktail menu can be tricky to make out, but this is where the bartenders come into their own – they’re infinitely knowledgeable and give them a few keywords and watch them weave their magic. (Words: Charlotte Lydia) 

For more info about Dach & Sons, visit www.dachandsons.com

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