A slice of American life in St John’s Wood

Find a slice of traditional US culture in this leafy London district

St John’s Wood, along with a handful of other North West London postcodes, has long been a mecca for American expatriates living in the city. So why is this well-heeled pocket of the capital so popular with transatlantic immigrants looking to rent or buy property? One major draw is the nearby American School in London. Since the school was opened in 1951, a large American – and, in particular, Jewish – community has built up in the area, and the Yankee influence can be felt throughout the neighbourhood – mostly, you might not be surprised to learn, when it comes to food. Follow these tips to get a taste of American life in St John’s Wood.

Panzer’s Delicatessen

Opening a shop with the same name as a type of German tank was a controversial move in the 1950s, but Panzer’s Delicatessen has stood the test of time. The shop’s vast New York-style deli counter is overflowing with cold meats, cheeses and salads, so no wonder it’s a favourite lunchtime stop for local residents. They even deliver their speciality, filled bagels, to the American School, so they must be good. Plus, Panzer’s has adapted its produce over the years to suit their clientele, which is why it’s the place where Americans go to stock up on Chips Ahoy cookies, Babe Ruth candy bars and Betty Crocker cake mixes.

Harry Morgan

If it’s a sit-down dinner you’re after, Harry Morgan prides itself on being the biggest and best-known Big Apple style restaurant in London. Founded by butcher Mr Morgan in 1948, this place is famous for its generous portions and authentic Jewish flavours. The menu is like a who’s who of ‘haimishe’ cooking; gefilte fish, chicken soup, chopped liver, they’re all there – and at more attractive prices than some of the high-end hotspots on the same road. Harry’s also has seating outside for summertime al fresco feasts, and a deli counter for when you’d rather grab a salt beef sandwich with mustard and pickles on the go.

Gail’s

The Jewish connections continue with Gail’s, the St John’s Wood outpost of the bakery chain founded by Tel Aviv-born Ran Avidan and American Tom Molnar. The early risers at Gail’s bake their artisan bread and pastries fresh every morning, enticing passersby with the aromas of potato and rosemary sourdough loaves and Turkish chocolate halva buns. For a distinctly American flavour, opt for the buttermilk hotcakes and maple roasted pears for breakfast, or grab a slice of the pineapple and pecan-infused carrot cake to go with your coiffee (that’s coffee in New Yorker-speak).

Lord’s Tavern

Lord’s Cricket Ground might not seem like a quintessentially American destination, but the Lord’s Tavern is where locals of all nationalities head when they want to watch live sport accompanied by a refreshing pint or two. This site dates back to 1868, but the tavern itself was refurbished in 2011 and is now home to three big screens, plus two outside during summer months. Gastropub food, a range of ales and an outdoor decking area make this a traditional British pub experience, but they keep it international with the sporting selections. Whether it’s the genteel pursuit of cricket, major football tournaments or World Series Baseball you’re after, this is the place for St John’s Wood sports fans.