Americans know how to party. Their holidays never seem to end. If it’s not Memorial Day Weekend, it’s the Superbowl. And then there’s the Fourth of July. There’s no bigger celebration than Independence Day.
And Aussies know how to jump on a bandwagon. We’ve got more diners and dive bars than you can poke a pretzel stick at so what better excuse to go out and get an American fix than this July 4th? Here’s our guide to the best spots to go soak up the “Americano” atmosphere:
Hot Daug…
The Fourth of July Party at the Dove & Olive in Surry Hills is a full day affair but you’ll definitely want to make sure you’re in attendance for the Hot Dog Eating Competition at 3pm. Yes that’s right, a hot dog eating competition! 10 hot dogs in three minutes – the winner walks away with a full belly and a $50 food and drink voucher. Places are limited (entry is $30) so sign up on the day from 2pm or email admin@doveandolive.com.au.
Dove & Olive
156 Devonshire St, Surry Hills
doveandolive.com.au
Mac & Cheese
Ah the ultimate American comfort food. Local restaurants and bars have adopted this gooey, cheesy snack with a vengeance, adding truffle oil, gruyere, even deep frying it and serving it in a ball. Yes that’s right, head over to the brand new Raven’s Eye in Newtown to try the Mac and Cheese Arancini.
Raven’s Eye
127 King St Newtown
Supersized Sundae
Cute and cosy, Daisy’s Milk Bar in Petersham does a damn good job of recreating the American diner scene. Pop in for a hearty hot breakfast (maybe the night after your July 4th festivities) although you’re really missing out if you don’t try a supersized chocolate sundae – whipped cream, maraschino cherry and all so maybe come back for an afternoon snack too!
Daisy’s Milk Bar
340 Stanmore Road, Petersham
daisysmilkbar.com
Sports Fix
Sporting fans line up to get a seat at Lidz Caps, the cool American sports bar, hot dog joint and hat store in one opposite Enmore Theatre. The chilli dogs will take you right back to the ball game, while the TVs up the back stay on American sport all hours.
Lidz
97 Enmore Rd, Newtown
lidzcaps.com
Craft Beer!
From Budweiser’s to Duff, Americans love their own beers. If you’re after something a little more refined than Homer’s preferred brew, head to the Lord Raglan. With 16 taps and a soft spot for local and international craft beer, the Lord Raglan has a dedicated local following and very well educated American bartenders. Their special Fourth of July American Tap Take Over will see 4 US beers on tap, American BBQ food on the menu and even a country blues band for the night. Keep an eye out for lucky door prizes and a “best dressed American celebrity look-alike” prize.
Lord Raglan
12 Henderson Rd, Alexandria
lordraglan.com.au/lordraglan