A casino might seem like an unusual place to enjoy a spot of brunch, but that’s just what’s on offer at the Heliot Steak House. Situated high up in the period balconies of Leicester Square’s The Hippodrome Casino, Heliot Steak House – renowned foremost for its tender cuts of beef – offers not just top quality Americana brunching options on the plate, but also boasts prime views of all the gambling action beneath. Where else (apart, perhaps, from Vegas) can you get all that? The grandeur and spectacle of the place makes sense given that the Hippodrome has been a circus venue, a theatre and even a nightclub over it’s illustrious and storied 100-plus year history.
Don’t fret, it’s completely up to you if you want to roll the dice and have a flutter before you eat (don’t worry if gambling isn’t your thing). Still, if you do opt to hit the roulette wheel, make sure you haven’t plundered all your savings in a Hunter S. Thompson swirl of betting and booze– at 11AM, I really hope you haven’t – because you’ll want to try what Helliot Steak House’s exceptional brunch menu has to offer.
Feeling like the red-blooded cowboy you always knew you could be? Try the country fried steak served up with sausage gravy, eggs and fries. It’s deliciously indulgent and just what you need for a hardy day on the ranch – or, y’know, sipping flat whites and making use of the ample shopping opportunities offered around Heliot Steak House’s stellar central London location. Personally, I plumped for the Jack Stack: a monumental pile of carb-heavy delights that balances pancakes, French Toast and waffles on top of each other, before then drizzling maple syrup all over. Make sure to order a side of bacon. You’ll need it to offset all that sweet heft with the sharp snap of salty rashers. My companion, craving fruit, opted for the pancake stack which is served with a generous handful of blueberries: a true classic that’s paid the due respect it deserves here (fluffy, light, and oh so moreish).
All those resoundingly American delights sure make for thirsty work. How fortunate, then, that Heliot Steak House’s friendly staff are on-hand to serve boozy treats like Bellinis or – if you’re trying to forget last night’s hangover – a punchy Blood Mary made to a T. The best breakfast I’ve ever had in a casino? You bet.
