Good for suburbia
16 Nov 07, 17:25
As expected
The food here is good, and attempts are made to be original and serve dishes that are a little more exciting and ambitious than you normally find in a local restaurant. The specials are always worth trying. Mostly, they succeed with the food but not always.
I've eaten here quite a few times over the years and there is no doubt that the food is good, but so are the prices which is why I would only give it 3 stars. For that money I expect at least this.
The smoking ban has done this place a huge favour - I avoided the place for quite a while as the tables are quite ....cosy and I abhor smoke with my meal. The service suffers when the place is busy and it is normally hit or miss whether it is good, acceptable or poor - I've had all three.
In short, quite a safe place to eat but it's no Conran - far too many rough edges.
Groups: London Daily Photo
Good slightly out of town restaurant
05 Sep 07, 12:12
Above expectations
I've been to this restaurant on many occasions over about 10 years and, apart from one visit, I've never been disappointed. And even on that one occasion the food was 'acceptable' rather than 'great'.
It's bright and airy, so not really somewhere for an intimate night out, but the tables are reasonably spaced apart.
The standard menu has plenty of options (although vegetarians aren't too well looked after) and the specials of the day are good too - but don't get there too late or they're gone. Always a good sign in my book.
Talking of books, it's a good idea to book in advance, especially for Friday or Saturday.
The wine list is good, and even the cheapest wines are acceptable. They don't flinch at serving tap water if you ask for it.
Portions are generous, although they recently seem to have stopped serving side vegetables unless specifically asked for, which can be a pain if you forget.
Overall, though, a good restaurant, and one that would give the Conrans a run for their money.
