Bodeans is a two-part restaurant with a more formal restaurant in the basement and a casual bar-like atmosphere, with sports on two big screens, on the ground floor. I have not been downstairs in the full service restaurant, preferring the sports bar upstairs. It is self-service: place your order at the counter and pick it up from the front as well. Food is placed on paper-lined trays (very authentic!), whereas downstairs, it is plated properly!

There is no difference in the quality of the food though. The baby back ribs can differ at each visit - I have had wonderfully tender ribs on one visit but drier, harder ribs on another. Burnt ends are available Mondays and Wednesdays only. These are exactly as described, the harder, darker cut off ends of barbeque that are a chewy treat, but not for me! I prefer their always tender pulled pork, served either as is or on a bun as a sandwich. Their hot and cold sandwiches are all served with a side of fries and half a pickle and are all under £5, thus making them budget meals. An order of their barbeque (and combinations are available) range from £8 to £15 and sides must be ordered separately. Of the sides, the beans are excellent! The fries are also very addictive, with a tasty seasoned salt sprinkled over them. Starters include a couple of salads and Boston clam chowder.

There is a very good special where a full slab of baby back ribs, accompanied by sides of fries and coleslaw, and a can of a soft drink are available for only £10 on certain days of the week. There are other specials that occur occasionally - the last one I remember were discounts on the Chicago hot dog or hamburger (with fries and pickle) during Euro 2004.

The menus differ on each floor with the addition of dishes such as crab cakes, prawns, steaks and meatloaf downstairs. Writing all this has made me very hungry and I cannot wait to go back and try some of these!

To get there, exit at the Oxford Street tube station. Go east on Oxford Street on its south side. Turn right on Poland Street and the restaurant is down the street on the left. Their website has photos, an online menu and current promotions.