Take part in the rib-eating contest at the Big Easy

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With all things American firmly back in vogue, this year’s Independence Day celebrations are a fine excuse for a summer party.

Most of the capital’s diners are embracing the spirit plus there’s a host of alternative options including a chilli cook-off and drinks in the house of one of the founding fathers.

All Star Lanes

Get in the All American swing a day early at this trendy Brick Lane bowling alley. Forget the usual burgers ‘n’ shakes, this hangout is staging the capital’s first-ever chilli cook-off. Entrants from around the UK will compete for the title of ‘All Star Lanes Chilli Champ 2009’. The winner will be chosen by a panel of foodie experts including thelondonpaper’s own Dominic Midgley.

All Star Lanes 95 Brick Lane, E1 6QL, 020 7426 9200

Benjamin Franklin House

Brush up your American history at this 3 July drinks reception which offers visitors the chance to indulge in bubbly and cake while browsing round this quaint museum. The student design centre will be open to give you the chance to see some of Benjamin Franklin’s more offbeat inventions such as the glass harmonica.

Benjamin Franklin House , 12-2pm, £8, 020 7839 2006, www.benjaminfranklinhouse.org.

Big Easy

This established King's Road diner is a Mecca for red-blooded meat eaters. This year there is the 19th annual rib-eating contest, live music, killer margaritas, face painting for kids plus other exciting menu options.

Big Easy , 332-334 Kings Road, Chelsea, SW3 5U

Planet Hollywood

If you haven’t checked out the new version of this popular theme joint, then book your table for 4 July now. Independence Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in an all-American feast. The bar will be serving a special Independence Day snack menu with mini-burgers, hotdogs and Buffalo wings washed down with delicious cocktails such as the Boston Tea Party (Russian vodka, rum, Tia Maria, Amaretto and coca cola).

Planet Hollywood , 13 Coventry Street, Soho, W1D 7DH, 020 7437 7639

Texas Embassy

Texas might not have the best international image post-Bush, but this theme joint is guaranteed to be jumpin’ on 4 July. There’s the usual mix of average Tex-Mex fare plus live music and friendly waiters struggling to adopt southern drawls. Don’t forget your Stetson.

Texas Embassy , 1 Cockspur Street, SW1Y 5DL, 020 7925 0077

Bodean's

Skint expats and Americanophiles can celebrate in budget style at this meat-focused chain. All branches will be running the same independence-themed offer from 1-5 July, with a three-quarter-pound lobster and a 5oz rump steak available for the special price of £17.76 (history buffs will know that’s the year it all happened) .

Bodean's , 10 Poland Street, W1F 8PZ, 020 7287 0506

Christopher's American Bar and Grill

If you prefer linen tablecloths to rib bibs and paper mats, head to this Covent Garden eatery, which serves Modern American nosh in elegant surroundings. There’s a wallet-friendly menu with £27 for two courses and £33 for three. Chow down on themed delicacies such as New England clam bake and Missouri Rub BBQ beef short rib.

Christopher's American Bar and Grill , 18 Wellington Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 7DD, 020 7240 4222

Eagle Bar and Diner

They’re pulling out all the stops at this trendy diner. Not only will there be Coyote Ugly-style dancers jigging away on top of the bar and a DJ spinning classic Americana, but the whole restaurant will be decked out in flags, bunting and a big Statue of Liberty. Feast on chicken wings, chilli dogs, American beer and special cocktails.

Eagle Bar and Diner , 3-5 Rathbone Place, W1T 1HJ, 020 7637 1418

Ed’s Easy Diner

One of London’s oldest diners and still popular with its blend of classic eats and kitsch 50s décor. This Soho branch reveals its new look on Independence Day. Celebrate with one of their legendary milkshakes.

Ed’s Easy Diner ,12 Old Compton Street, 020 72871951, W1D 5NG

Americans Abroad BBQ and fireworks

London’s expat community will be partying in Battersea Park this Saturday. With space for 900 people it’s the capital’s biggest and most authentic bash. There’s a mammoth BBQ courtesy of Bodeans, red, white and blue bouncy castles, face paints and a spectacular fireworks display set to music. Time to brush up your softball skills.

5 July, Battersea Park, Pump House Gallery, Wandsworth SW11 4NJ, 2-10.30pm, free