Helen's reviews
Review of Crumpet
26 Aug 08, 15:29
If It's Good Enough For Mark Owen 
Decided on Crumpet for a Saturday morning brunch and wasn't disappointed. The thing the lured me in was the person sitting outside with Eggs Benedict - it looked good and made with bacon over ham how could you resist.
It is open and airy inside and although one half (the back) is sectioned off for children, prams and babies this didn't put me off. The front section is reserved for adults and is far enough away to hear yourself think.
Nice range of cakes, food and drinks all with organic theme and all pretty tasty. I went for the Eggs Benedict and and a fresh Orange juice, my fellow diner the same plus a banana milkshake. Drinks portions were small but food was nice and generous.
When I ventured to the back of the cafe to use the facilities I realised that the guy sitting at a child's table with his wife and kid was Mark Owen! Well, if it's good enough for Mark it's definitely good enough for me!
Crumpet is a winner!
3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
Review of Claridges Hotel
12 May 08, 11:53
Relaxed Tea Drinking
I must admit I am an afternoon tea obsessive. I prefer afternoon tea somewhere lovely to a posh three course meal out somewhere.
Crazy? Maybe but I am starting to think I am becoming a bit of a pro at knowing good places for a good tea guzzle and scone scoff.
Claridges is stunning both inside and out, and from the minute you walk through the revolving doors you feel transported to another (more elegant time). The tea saloon is nestled in the entrance foyer and is perfect for people watching. The thing I really loved was the vintage furnishings - 1930's originals, still in perfect condition.
Everything about this place is luxury and the attention to detail is meticulous. The afternoon tea is far less formal than that offered at the Ritz, where tea is generally served to the whole tea room at the same time. There is not a strict dress code either, attire is more smart casual.
The food and service was of a great quality, finger sandwiches - followed by light fluffy scones, finished off with French pastries. There is real emphasis here on tea, they offer a whole menu of different teas to try! As a bit of a tea fanatic I was pretty impressed, all teas I sampled were lovely.
Overall it was a fantastic experience. We went quite late in the afternoon (5.30), and even though this was the last tea sitting we were not rushed out and sat leisurely for almost 2 hours listening to the musicians perform and sipping tea.
Ambiance aside I do feel the food was slightly better at the Ritz, more classic British however for a more intimate and less formal tea Claridges really does exceed expectations.
1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.
Review of St James's Restaurant
22 Apr 08, 11:50
Lazy Afternoon Heaven
I can't vouch for all the food that this restaurant offers, but I when I went on a sleepy/snowy bank holiday Monday in the late afternoon the afternoon tea that was on offer was delightful.
Sundays and weekday afternoons are reserved for people taking afternoon tea and they have quite an extensive tea menu. From fine teas to breakfast teas - and one pot is plenty big enough for two to share.
Food was also of a superior quality - I opted for the clotted cream scones and jam, they were beautiful. I love expensive scones they cut like fresh cake, don't crumble and have no chalky flour anywhere in sight. The prices on the other hand were, as you would expect seriously inflated. I don't mind this as the quality was second to none, however the scones were tiny and two came in just under £6!
My fellow diner had the smoked salmon scrambled eggs and at £10 this looked a little more substantial for the money - but I was still pleased as punch with my scones (damn my sweet tooth).
The setting itself is very nice and has a rustic kitchen crossed with fine dining feel to it. Worn wooden tables adorn the room while huge chandeliers loom over head. You get lovely views over London - so bag a window table.
Lovely experience and a great place to come if you don't fancy going for a full afternoon tea somewhere - just be careful not to trip over all the lingering tourists.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Review of Noodle Express
11 Apr 08, 15:30
Pretty Yummy Noodles
I went for lunch here today despite Dan (see below) telling me it was average and bland - my thinking was it is best to give these things a try.
This little place is really well hidden, so well hidden that in my 6 months of lunch times in this area I never really spotted it. It doesn't look like much from the outside, however the inside is set out in the usual benches and is pretty cosy.
The general feeling is quite rushed as once you are seated the queue of eager diners extends out of the door. This didn't put me off, I was too busy browsing the extensive menu that caters for quite a wide audience with both, Chinese and Japanese options.
I went for the chicken ramen and was not disappointed. It was tastier than any Wagamama or Dim T noodle soup I have had, and at £5 you really cant go wrong. Service was a little abrupt and sometimes slow, but it was full to capacity and a lunch time, anyway I got my food very quickly, my fellow diners were not so fortunate!
The noodles were really fresh tasting and the chicken was nice a crispy - all round awesome Friday lunch (splash out on food day) option. I'll be back!
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Review of City Fish Bar
07 Apr 08, 17:07
I would tend to agree
I would have to agree with Amber's review. As a local to Canterbury for most of my life I was always dubious of this fish and chip shop. I always approached with caution due to the fact that it really annoyed me the hoards of people that queue up for day in day out. I always thought what is so great about average fish and chips?
It appears that I was pretty wrong to give this place a wide berth as one day, I think only a year ago I succumbed to the smell due to severe after work hunger.I ordered my fish and chips!
They were good, no they were really good. Cooked to perfection, and seriously yummy. Now I am one of those people who queues up for their chips with everyone else in the city centre.
I sold out - but 'hey' it was worth it!
1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.
Review of Sundae Sundae
26 Mar 08, 10:25
Don't let this ice cream sail away!
Holly is right this ice cream parlor is top notch, not only is the shop the cutest thing in the world but also the quality of the product really matches up to the decor.
The owners really make this place they are lovely and always talk you through all their products, tell you where they have come from and what is in them.
The ice cream is delicious and in true local form if you go in one day and have ice cream, it's likely if you go back the next they will be sold out and will have to wait for more to be made.
To top it off it is served up to you in boat dishes (if you want you can have a cone) finished with a cute paper sail.
p.s if you get the chance to try the apple crumble ice cream - buy the whole tub before it goes - it is amazing!
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Review of Ilva
04 Mar 08, 14:25
Great Service even Better Discounts!
Recently went to Ilva to check out their sofa offerings for my new flat. I had studied the website, but needed to see them in the flesh - and boy was I glad that I did go there in person.
For any one who has ever been to Ikea, Ilva is similar in so far that both stores are of Swedish origin, but that really is where the similarities end. Ilva is far smaller in stature and stocks much less product, it also is more expensive and of a higher quality.
Descriptions and introductions over, I visited the store on a Saturday, when I walked in I greeted with the sofa collection and at the front was the special offers and discounted sofas. Staring at me was the sofa of my dreams (1950's modernist deep corner unit sofa in tweed/textured style cloth) and to top it all off the £699 sofa had been reduced to £250! Wow!
So after sitting on it, thinking about everything it would go with, and stroking it we decided to buy it seeing as it was the best looking and costing sofa we had found in all our hunting. We spoke to the very nice sales lady who talked us through the tiny hole that it had on it, she then proceeded to knock a further £100 off the total if we took the sofa away the same day - clearly that sort of discount was incentive enough - needless to say the rest of the day was spent trying to locate a van, and get it home.
However the moral of the review is the customer service at this place is great, were had already committed buy the sofa and they still offered us further discount. They had everything ready for when we wanted to collect the sofa, and everyone was really friendly.
The smaller selection and less minimal furnishings combined with the lack of bargain hunting hoards made this shop a real welcome break from Ikea shopping. Check it out it - they offer some fantastic deals, many to rival Ikea's prices!
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Review of Cote
25 Feb 08, 10:46
Fabulously French!
Cote is the newest offering from the company that own the Italian chain Strada - the idea behind the restaurant is to offer great quality French food at reasonable prices - and they really have met their specification with this one.
Situated in the heart of Wimbledon Village it is a real hit with the incredibly rich residents of the area, and I can see why. The great thing about this restaurant is that it is the type of place, like Strada where you can have an expensive meal or have a quick, much cheaper meal - you have the choice. On this occasion we opted for the more expensive meal option.
The atmosphere is relaxed and the service is attentive, yet discreet. The interior is quite reminiscent of a Hopper painting with, dark wooden seating in a slightly hidden and dark setting. This is contrasted with pie and mash shop style Edwardian ornate floor tiles - the mix works really well and makes for simple yet stunning dining.
The food is of great quality, and the wine choices are of the same high standard. I am always wary of French cuisine not being a fan of garlic or overly rich food, but was really pleased with how much fish and light dishes were on the menu - I was spoilt for choice.
I opted for mussels to start, followed by the special of lobster risotto, both of which were light and really tasty.The frites are similar to those served on the streets of Belgium and are top quality - don't miss them! Pudding was a push as portions are large but worth it. Crepes with strawberries and Chantilly cream, dusted finely with icing sugar - perfect!
Some elements are similar to Strada, you get a free bottle of filtered water on arrival, and the prices are a touch more expensive. Overall a perfect night out in a lively but intimate restaurant.
p.s. Don't forget to book, this place is popular and only half of the restaurant is reserved for people who have not made a reservation.
3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
Review of The Fish House
21 Feb 08, 11:11
Forget Posh Fish and Chips!
This little fish shop is located about 5 mins from my flat and to be honest it is the smartest looking chip shop on the Lower Addiscombe road. This made me think it would probably be good, but in fact it was really, really good - and I come from the coast!
The shop is really clean and airy, it also has a restaurant section too, but I opted for takeaway. The fish was cooked to order and they do a good selection of different fish other than (unsustainable) cod. I went for the Haddock and wasn't disappointed. It was very fresh tasting and the batter was crispy - just as it should be.
The chips were also really yummy, fluffy and full of flavour - unlike so many chip shops now days. They serve you up huge portions, you could share a portion of fish and chips between two if you weren't feeling that hungry.
The only thing that let this place down, and bought it down to 4 starts as opposed to 5 was the guy serving was a bit unfriendly, not rude but not that interested. However this hardly matters when you get great food!
Cancel your reservations to your posh fish and chip restaurants like;The Fish Shop on St John's Street and Tom's Place The Fish House offers the same quality for £5 not £16, trust me I have been.
1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.
Review of Greens Health & Fitness
11 Feb 08, 10:55
Good Value Great Facilities
This is a shining example of how all health clubs/gyms should be. The facilities are great and the atmosphere is really friendly and unassuming. It has a fantastic pool with 3 Jacuzzis, sauna, steam room and tones of different temperature showers.
The gym has three rooms and lots of different work out options like rooms with no music, empty studios to work out in etc. The building is relatively new and this is reflected in the quality and keep of all the facilities.
They offer an electronic key that operates all the machines, lockers and stores your work out times, goals and achievements. Meaning gone are the days of cards - it is very impressive.
The membership plans here are great in that they offer a flexible three month contract that allows you to choose how long you want to stay a member. This is really great for all of us who seem to be nomads.
Lovely staff and if you are thinking about a gym in the area this is really the most reasonable choice
1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.
Review of The Fish Shop On St. John Street
11 Feb 08, 10:20
Classy Fish Supper
I went here for an early evening meal on Friday and it was really tasty. We opted for the fixed price early evening menu which had a few dinner options on it. I went for the plate of fresh prawns to start, followed by battered plaice and fresh chips. All the food really really great quality and the fish was melt in the mouth.
Potions are not huge, but very filling. The mushy peas are also really good but the portion was very small. I decide to try this restaurant after reading the review below and it is all true, the decor is lovely and simple, and the window at the back is incredibly striking as it is lit up with fairy lights.
Really nice wine options and all fairly priced. The fixed menu of two courses is a very reasonable £15 - plus drinks. Very nice if you are looking foe a classy alternative to a Friday favorite.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Review of Space
05 Feb 08, 14:12
Treasure Fills this Space!
This little shop is a bit of a hidden treasure trove filled with a wealth of cards, gifts, wrap and jewelry. It is only up the road from my office so makes for a great please to grab a lunch time greetings cards for that birthday you forgot.
They stock both mens and ladies gifts and hold some really unusual items. They stock Ollie & Nic goods, Ella Doran and Cath Kidston gift bags - a real eclectic mix. I am a real fan of shops like this, as it can sometimes be hard to get unusual greetings cards. Many of the cards and gift wrap are by independent card designers and companies.
Prices are what you would expect for unusual items (you obviously pay a little extra) but you get something much better. The staff are always lovely and chatty - in true Exmouth Market style you feel like part of the furniture.
Worth a browse if you are in the area and fancy something a bit fancy and unusual.
1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.
Review of Coco
16 Jan 08, 17:19
Florentine Fun!
Ok I am guilty, this shop has been in my home town for a considerable amount of time (years I think?) and it was only the other day that finally ventured in - well, was kind of bullied in by my chocolate mad friend.
Both the interior and exterior are very plush and stylish - very in keeping with the rest of Harbour Street. It is sometimes very easy to miss this shop as it is at the very top of the street almost where the street ends and turns into the real harbour.
Inside it stocks all different types of chocolates from all over the place. There are fresh truffles in the fridge/counter and packaged chocolate on shelves all around the shop.
They offer unusual chocolate like chili chocolate, sea salt chocolate and many more. My fellow shopper and I opted for the fresh truffles - 'when in Rome' and all that. The lady in the shop ( the owner I think?) was really friendly and advised us on what all the chocolates were and what ones were good. They are quite pricey - well a lot pricey, so we only got a few to sample but what we did have was rather tasty.
I would highly recommend the Florentines, they were particularly yummy! They also do really cute/kitch chocolate praline horses heads and gold fish. If you are in the area it is well worth a visit - great for unique gifts.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Review of Carluccios
02 Jan 08, 15:15
Noisy But Enjoyable
I stumbled across this place in a real 'I am starving, lets eat here' kind of way. It was on the way to a shopping destination, I had heard mixed reviews about the brand but decided I wanted to make my own mind up - so I went for it.
It is funny because I would have to agree with Lucy C and say that I dined at the weekend and I did fee like I was brunching in a play school or junior school hall. However we were seated in a cozy corner and this provided some relief from the noise.
So with all the moans aside, I could not fault the food - mine was delicious! I ordered the spinach and ricotta ravioli, which came with butter and Parmesan cheese and was really dreamy. It literally melted in the mouth and it was the nicest pasta I have tasted in a long time.
My fellow diner and I shared the mixed bread tin which was yummy, we also managed to escape in a fairly short amount of time which was pretty good considering just how busy this place was.
Lovely food, but do beware if you don't like to dine with a lot children and families don't venture here at the weekend. An all round enjoyable experience. Would love to go back on a weekday evening or to try the deli/shop.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Review of Strada
18 Dec 07, 15:33
The Best of the Bunch!
Out of all the Italian food chain Strada is by far my favorite. The food is always of a really high quality and no matter which one that you visit their quality is always high.
The decor is clean and stylish and makes for a really unfussy but polished dinning experience. I have sampled both their pizza and pasta offerings and both have impressed me. My favorite dish is the very simple but very effective 'Spaghetti al Ragu' this is a very well made and it always tastes fresh.
They have a good wine selection and their special wines are always worth a try. With regards to the food, the thing that keeps me frequenting Strada is the fabulous Pana cotta that comes with fresh rasberries. It is to die for!
The staff are always great and if your in a hurry it makes for a great place to have a bite. Away from some of the other more mass produced and boring Italian chains.
It is slightly more pricey than other places but well worth it in quality.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Review of The Electric Bird Cage
11 Dec 07, 10:21
60's Retro Cool!
This place is amazingly cool. It screams Austin Powers, 1960's Psychedelic cool this may have something to do with its kitsch carousel styled bar dominating the main space.
It is located in the heart of London and is very popular, it has two rooms and is often hired out for private functions. We went on a Monday night and there was a good atmosphere, the decor is really quite refreshing, and when you walk in the atmosphere is quite tranquil (unusual for somewhere so trendy in London).
It serves both food and drinks and has the most spectacular array of cocktails I have ever seen. Not only were the choices amazing, but they tasted amazing too. In fact I would go as far as to say they were the best cocktails I have ever sampled. They tasted super fresh and they were incredibly imaginative. The whole party that I was with was uber impressed with the quality of their drinks.
They were not the cheapest drinks but I did not think that they were over priced for the quality that you got, and at £7- £7.50 each they are not out of place in London.
Next up was the food, after 'ooohhing' and 'aaarrring' over our drinks the food followed and this too was of great quality. The food menu was not hugely extensive, and was based around dim sum style eating. Lots of little Asian inspired dishes went down a treat.
I ordered the prawn and chive dumplings, golden purse and a Thai green chicken curry with coconut rice, all was lovely and just enough - a great accompaniment to our fabulous drinks .
I can't recommend this funky little place enough, if you are looking for something seriously different they give it ago. Beware ladies taking your men, there the very attractive waitresses change into very skimpy air hostess outfits after about 9pm, adding to the 60's kitsch feel and attracting much attention!
1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.
Review of Bloomsbury
07 Dec 07, 17:39
Hidden Treasure
This little shop is tucked away between a pub and a cookware shop so you would be forgiven for missing it completely. It's tiny stature is no reflection on the extensive array of lovely stock that they have inside.
Bloomsbury is delicately adorned with glass cases of fine and costume jewelery. They stock the fabulous Greengate stoneware, napkins and other trinkets, this pleases me greatly as so few places stock the Danish companies wares.
This shop stocks so much more I could write so much, but its book selection and great gift selection really make it stand out. The staff are very discreet and browsing is always allowed - infact it is a must!
Highly recommended!
0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.
Review of Cafe Latino
07 Dec 07, 17:16
Milk Shakes and Wraps!
I LOVE this place! It has been a favorite of mine ever since the day it opened - all those years ago.
It was the first of it's kind in the area, and this little cafe really did it well. It bought a little bit of culture and cafe chic to Herne Bay. The interior and design of this place is simple and effective, but it is the food you walk out remembering.
I have sampled quite a few wares here and my fave combo by far is the chicken, stuffing and brie wrap - with cranberry dip. It is just the best and really dreamy. All the ingredients always taste fresh and the menu is imaginative, something that so many places lack.
The milk shakes deserve a mention too. The best being the strawberry, I am not sure what goes into them but I know it is a lot of real strawberries and some good old cream, I don't really care because the end result is amazing. Topped with whipped cream and some fresh fruit on the side - need I say any more!
If you down at the seaside or in the area give this place a try - you won't be disappointed. Beats soggy fish and chips on a hot day. Warning it gets busy so head for lunch early!
0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.
Review of Family Tree
05 Dec 07, 14:30
Hidden Gem!
This little shop is a real hidden wonder, it is nestled away on Exmouth Market and not one to be missed. The lovely minimal interior is dotted with unique design lovelies. All the products are really unusual and of the rarer variety. It has a Swedish design feel with screen printed Japanese paper light shades filling the walls and window. I read that all the products in the shop have been made and put together by friends and family of the owner - quite impressive! The Camembert cheese box clocks are novel and very charming. They also stock some great hand made cards and gifty items. A really lovely local shop in the heart of the market! Well worth a visit.
1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.
Review of Pussy
29 Nov 07, 15:35
Unique!
I love this shop, it is really unique - it stands apart from all the other gift shops in Brighton. For one it sells Paul Frank, and not many places do outside of London (handbags and everything). It also sells Tatty Devine jewelery, again very difficult in shops outside of the capital.
This little funky shop also hosts lots of other cool things, like retro inspired furniture and many gifty items along with some great modern art books. I think they sell the art as well? It is sometimes to miss these stores as they are quite small and discreet, so keep an eye out next time you are on the lanes (both sets).
They have two stores in Brighton which is representative of their popularity. Friendly staff, a shop with a good atmosphere. A real treat, or just good for a treat!
0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.
Review of Alberry's Wine Bar
27 Nov 07, 16:00
What a Great Cave!
I love this place, I don't really know why, but I really do. I think it has a lot to do with the fact that Canterbury has very few good after hours night spots.
Alberry's always seems to host a much older crowed, as opposed to the 16-18 year olds that populate the rest of cities night haunts.
Some of the best nights out I have had in Canterbury have been in Alberry's and I spent last New Years Eve here and wasn't disappointed.
It has two bars both upstairs and down and seating on both levels. The downstairs is like a cave in the sense that I think it is an old celler and the tunnel like celling gives the feeling that you are in a cave. This idea never fails to amuse me when drunk. Oh I should mention this is the Dj and dance area.
Friendly staff, and always a good crowd. Drinks are really reasonable and on some nights they have buy one get on free offers. The music varies from night to night, so do check if you have specific tastes.
Best place to have a dance in Canterbury
0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.
Review of China Chef
27 Nov 07, 14:51
Friendly Local Chinese Resaurant
This restaurant/takeaway has been my local Chinese for a long time, well, until I moved away. The staff are really friendly and are always very polite.
The food is good and the sweet and sour chicken is a real winner. The service for both the restaurant and the takeaway service is always quick and efficient.
Lovely little building with a real homely atmosphere. It gets really busy in the summer, especially around Regatta time. It is quite small so it is a good idea to book on a Saturday or Friday night.
1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.
Review of Sally Bourne Interiors
27 Nov 07, 09:44
Less Shabby and More Chic!
This shop is neatly nestled between some newsagents and other unrelated shops, so don't miss it. This is a really very beautiful place full of very pretty interior related things.
The shop it self is very striking and its pale cream hues make it a tranquil place to browse. They have a comprehensive paint department at the back of the store which stocks rarer paints like Farrow and Ball etc. They also sell wallpaper and titles, which can be ordered (they have a great selection of samples).
The front of the shop is dedicated to soft furnishings and rolls of oilcloth and cotton duck line the walls. They have so great gifty items, not to mention the lovely array of decorative door and furniture knobs they have lining the walls nearest the till.
This shop can get really busy at the weekend, especially with push chairs, so go early or late and browse the store when empty, I think you will have a much better experience.
0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.
Review of Beard Papa's
23 Nov 07, 10:43
Super Cute Cream Puffs!
I love this place it is the most random thing ever, yet it is so damn yummy!
Beard Papa's is a cafe/bakery type place in the thick of Oxford Street that serves up the best cream puffs ever. It is a fast food/Krispy Creme type establishment (I think) and you can by your cream puffs by the box.
They are similar to profiter rolls, but without the chocolate on top. The choux pastry is baked into cute balls on site and filled with yummy vanilla cream filling before your eyes, it is finished off by hand with a dusting of Castor sugar! You can have chocolate filling, depending on what day of the week it is, the special filling changes each day.
Beard Papa is really big in the USA and I don't think it will be long before it really takes off in the UK. This place is super cute and super yummy!
0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.
Review of Dim T
23 Nov 07, 10:26
Steamed Buns to Die For!
It was my first time at this eating establishment and also trying dim sum - I wasn't disappointed.
The atmosphere in the restaurant is very busy in the evenings and can be quite noisy. This didn't put me off, I quite liked the buzz.
The food tasted very fresh and the service was fairly quick. We opted for some dim sum to start and their steamed bums were to die for, they were really fluffy and light. The chicken dumplings were also pretty dreamy.
This place excels at great starters and dim sum, my main was nice, but a little too much garlic was used for my liking - though my fellow diners main looked and tasted yummy!
There are lots of options to choose from on the menu, and most tastes are catered for. They have Thai food, noodle dishes and many Chinese classic dishes.
The decor is really chic and very well presented. I enjoyed this place despite the fact that it is a chain, and is very popular. Yummy food that is reasonably healthy - always a winner!
0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.
Review of Roundhouse
15 Nov 07, 17:07
Good Clean Organized Venue
I recently went to gig at the Roundhouse and was really pleasantly surprised. It was different to all the other small gig venues that I have previously been to. It was very spacious, not just the stage and standing area but the bar and foyer too. There was plenty of bars inside and and lots of room to sit, or stand and chat comfortably. It did feel more like a cinema, but it was a nice change to the dark depths of some of the Mean Fiddler venues that I often frequent.
There were staff everywhere making the gig enjoyable as it was well organized, and not a rabble of drunkenness - which so many are now days. I think I really appreciated this when I visited this place as I was feeling ill - and it being so well organized made the whole thing a lot less stressful.
All round a good venue, with loads of good facilities.
1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.
Review of $ Grills and Martinis
13 Nov 07, 22:48
Dollar was a Winner!
I have been walking past this place for weeks now wanting to sample it's wares and tonight I did. I love the look of this restaurant - it is one of those good looking places that if it were a book cover I would have bought it just on how cool it was.
Anyway swanky cool interior aside the food was of a really high quality, I had the mussels in a coconut, chili and lemongrass sauce with fries and it was pretty good. Really soft fresh tasting mussels too. My fellow diner opted for the Million Dollar burger and this also looked really tasty. The portions were really ample for the prices.
We both opted for the strawberry and passion fruit cocktail and I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of drink that you get for your money. Long tall glasses were filled with crushed ice and really great tasting Vodka - winner!
We both finished with the Creme Brulée , which was melt in the mouth good and I know a good Creme Brulée when I taste one.
Great service, good food, amazing funky wallpaper and chandeliers - you cant beat good interior design whilst you dine!
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Review of Niemans Pharmacy
08 Nov 07, 11:26
Friendly Helpful Service
I am quite new to the Farringdon area and have been suffering with a cold for the past week, I decided to finally give in a get loaded up with supplies (tissues, tablets and throat sweets etc). I had been looking for a chemist in the area for a while but this had proved unsuccessful. Having already ventured into Sainsbury's thinking I could get all I needed there quickly, I was soon proved wrong as I was greeted with a que that was about to snake out the door. I decided to keep looking.
I was pleasantly surprised when I found this small independent chemist. It was rather empty and very well stocked. I managed to grab all my supplies, talk to the woman about what decongestants to take and out the door in a matter of minuets. No waiting in line, no fuss just good local independent service!
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Review of The Gourmet Burger Kitchen
05 Nov 07, 14:37
Cosy Burger Restaurant
I have been to this burger restaurant twice now and both times the food has been lovely. They offer a really wide variety of burgers, with lots of alternatives to beef. Both times I have had the chicken burger and they are really imaginative, unlike your usual chicken options. GBK offer chicken satay, chicken brie and cranberry and many more yummy options.
The other burgers all really imaginative as well. They do some great chunky chips and all the portions are so filling. When the burgers arrive they are of skyscraper proportions and require a knife and fork to devour. I would strongly recommend the milk shakes as they are divine Really thick and very American.
The restaurant is very small and tables are very close together, though not too close. Friendly staff, good atmosphere - this place is always so clean looking it is very reassuring.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Review of Greenwich Picturehouse
05 Nov 07, 11:06
Finally a Cinema to Write Home About
This Picturehouse is nestled in a quite corner of Greenwich, slightly back from the bustle of the pubs and bars on the main high street.
This cinema is very modern and incredibly clean. I love the fact that Picturehouse is a small chain - and the quality of their cinemas is really impressive.
The entrance ticket is quite hefty on a Saturday or Friday night, at £10 I nearly collapsed. However after getting upstairs to the cinema bar I soon realized why this place was so pricey. The lounge bar for pre- film drinks was delightful. Comfortable sofas and lounge chairs scattered around - all overlooking a great glass window that overlooks the street.
The prices once inside the cinema were really reasonable, two soft drinks at the bar came to £3 and the most pleasant surprise was the price of the popcorn and soft drink. £4 for a large popcorn and drink, amazing seeing as most huge chain cinema's charge anything up to £10 for the same quantities.
The screens were also of the highest quality, and the seats were divine. They were low slung and reclined back to a comfortable half laying position. I don't think I have ever been to a better, more well equipped cinema. An all round joy! Great staff and a great atmosphere.
3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
Review of Uniqlo
27 Oct 07, 21:45
Simple Functional Fashion
I am a big fan of simplicity when it comes to parting with my money for clothes. I love my fashion but I can't see the logic in owning millions of fussy patterned pieces and none of them able to constitute a single an outfit.
Rant over, Uniqlo offers simple Japanese design at it's best. The clothes are simple and design focused. They stock basics and more fashion focused items alike. I love the simplicity of the store layout and the fact that good design does not cost the earth.
uniqlo is still a bit of an underdog in the young fashion market and I think this draws me to it even more. When I walk out with a fab white smock top, or a great polo tee I am pleased because I know that not every other 20 something is wearing it too.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Review of C E Harrod
27 Oct 07, 21:29
Friendly Local Service
My late grandmother used this chemist for all her medical and toiletry needs and having used the place myself I can see why. The staff are very friendly and really helpful. What is great about the service is that they are incredibly friendly whilst still being very professional.
They stock high end goods including many lesser known (in the UK) French skin care products as well as an extensive make up and perfume counter. They sell almost everything - but they stock it in a very minimal environment as not to bombard you.
They have lots of staff to hand for a small shop and they are very knowledgeable about the products that they sell.
A great local chemist that offers far better service than most larger competitors.
1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.
Review of Eds Easy Diner
27 Oct 07, 21:18
The American Way
What can I say about this place, I don't usually go for burgers, or chains, or eating so close to theatre land but I do really like Ed's.
I have been to the one in Blue Water Kent, but this one was so much better. The staff were really friendly and helpful and the atmosphere was actually really good. It hosted a strange mix of city suits, Americans and theatre goers.
The grill chef was a real old American guy dressed in the original white gill outfit. The burgers are more original, not gourmet, but still really good. You can get American classics like chili fries and peanut butter milkshakes.
Your burger comes in a paper holder, the grill chef asks how your want your burger cooked and he also takes an active interest in weather or not you liked his creation.
Give this place a go, if you want real American food, away from McDonalds and all the gourmet offering around these days.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Review of Miss Sixty
27 Oct 07, 20:41
Good Product Knowledge!
I can't say that I frequent this store on a regular basis, however when I did purchase a pair of jeans from here the staff were really great.
Unlike so many shops, Miss Sixty staff seamed well informed, clued up and bursting with product knowledge. This may sound a little square, but when you are parting with any thing up to £130 for jeans you want the person serving you to understand the products and the denim.
I was impressed that the level of service did not falter even though my visit was paid during a peak sale time.
The jeans are good quality and they are very inventive with their denim washes. All round great shopping experience.
3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
Review of Cafe Belge
24 Oct 07, 17:54
Cafe Belge
Cafe Belge Canterbury is part of a small chain of mussel restaurants in the South East. It is famous for it''s offer of '50 different ways to eat mussels'. I must admit it is very impressive. The restaurant is located in the Westgate area of the town and is a real hide-away for locals, as tourists rarely venture this far down the high street. I have been twice and both times have been a real delight. The food is always very fresh and the portions are generous. despite the 50 ways to have mussels I normal opt for the old favorite of mussels in a cream, white wine and onion sauce - it never fails me. The mussels are always served with both bread and fries and though delicious it is always so filling. Cafe Belge does offer options that are not fish related for those who are not keen on seafood. They have a great menu for starters and also puddings, my personal fav being the Toblerone fondue. A big draw to Cafe Belge has to be their extensive range of Belgium beers. They offer the most extensive selection I have seen this side of the Channel. I would recommend sampling their strawberry beer or even the coconut - yummy! The staff are really friendly and always make you feel important and valued. On your first visit they offer you the chance to sample their more unusual beers for free - which is a nice touch. Overall a lovely little restaurant.
1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.
Review of SCP
21 Oct 07, 20:33
Design Wonderland
From the moment I walked into this shop I was sold, it is amazing. It screams cool from every wall.
SCP showcases contemporary design at it's best. The carefully selected items are arranged in colourful and sleek concepts imitating airy loft spaces.
The selection of stock is diverse from sofa's and tea towels to laptop bags and mugs. The staff are friendly and helpful and the shop has a great atmosphere.
This place could bankrupt you, but the things sold in here are so good, and so stylish I think I could cope with it. A great place for a house warming present, or if you just fancy something other than Ikea.
0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.
Review of The Cuban
17 Oct 07, 10:15
Great Place with Great Atmosphere!
The Cuban has been open about a year, and what a year it has been, this place was the very thing that Canterbury had been screaming out for. It is fresh, funky and full of life. I am not much of a sit the local pub kind of gal so this place really excites me. It is a Cuban themed restaurant, bar and cocktail lounge. The ingredients in the drinks are always very fresh, the wine list is diverse and the cocktails are hand made with care. The same detail is put into the very tasty food. Fresh ingredients combined with great seasoning make every meal I have had here delicious. The Cuban chicken with the Mole rub is divine and well worth a try. As is the tapas style starters that they offer. The only downside to this place is the bar gets so busy - it is ridiculous. Staff are so attentive to the drinks they make you can easily spend 20 mins waiting for your next drink. Also I suppose it has to be mentioned, it is expensive. By this I mean compared to other places in the area. To be honest you pay £6 for a cocktail but you the amount of alcohol you get is a lot. The cosmopolitans could blow you away! Great place for people of all ages, go for a mid week night out as it gets very busy at the weekends.
0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.
Review of Benugo
12 Oct 07, 18:23
Good Quality, Reasonable prices.
I went here for lunch for the first time today and I was really pleasantly surprised. I was at first a little overwhelmed by the amount of choice that they offer, but I soon sorted through the vast selection to discover something that took my fancy.
They make bespoke sandwiches and lots of pastas, salads, pies, soups, bagels and lots more. It all looked so good. The food is really fresh and freshly prepared in front of you. This place really shows up larger chain establishment for their lack of choice.
The prices really surprised me too, they were really reasonable. I managed to walk out with a huge filling tasty lunch for about £3.45. Now that is value!
3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
Review of Tiny Tim's Tearoom
08 Oct 07, 22:06
Service with a 1920's smile.
This place is pure gold, I mean that literally. Since it opened in the summer of 2007 it has been very, very popular. It has the typical mix of any establishment in Canterbury of half tourists and half locals. The building is listed and very quaint, it has the additional feature of the upstairs 'ghost room' - a bit of a tourist attraction if you ask me. But that aside the food and service are second to none. It is a 1920's inspired tearoom with the staff dressed in black and white uniforms. The decor is all very British and really compliments the building. Their selections of teas and cakes is extensive and very seasonal. They offer high teas and afternoon teas and anything else you desire. The high teas are lovely and all served on pristine white china. Very friendly and efficient staff on hand to make the whole thing very enjoyable. A real treat - the raspberry and apple scones are to die for!
0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.
Review of BFI London Imax Cinema
08 Oct 07, 21:38
Good Clean 3D Fun!
Both times that I have been to the Imax have been great. This place never disappoints me.
The design it's self is a marvel, when you step inside and see the size of the screen the shape and size of the building suddenly makes sense.
I know it's a bit of a tourist attraction etc.. but to me the Imax it is a real gem. I love the little touches that they do there, like the introduction to the screening given by a real person standing at the front.The pre-film animations to show you the full 3D capabilities and the sound and light show to demonstrate even more of the impressive effects.
The films are always really good and often educational. I saw a documentary film on sea life and was quite scared due to it being so realistic. Great for adults and kids (I took my young nephews - they loved it).
It's good value for money, and there is lots of space everywhere in the building to chill out.
Beware this place is a bit of a maze to get into, with a series of crazy under passes to reach the entrance from the tube.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Review of Cath Kidston
28 Sep 07, 18:24
Shabby Heaven!
I must confess in advance - I am the biggest Cath Kidston fan walking so it is no surprise that I love this shop.
I am yet to frequent the other branches in London however they will be next on my list. I love the way no matter how many times I visit the shop or peruse the catalogue I always walk in and think 'wow'.
This place is decked from floor to celling in floral lovelies. I adore the glossy painted wooden fixtures and additional vintage objects dotted around the shop.
I always walk out with an unintended purchase and the longing for more. Cath always gets it right and her shops never disappoint.
Friendly staff and a great atmosphere.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Review of The Hummingbird Bakery
27 Sep 07, 16:09
Crafty Cupcakes!
The Humming Bird never fails to disappoint me, from the moment I walk in the door (or reach the door in the que) I forget my que rage and suddenly I am emerged in a mental battle of which delicious cake to consume.
The place is just so pretty it gets me every time. I even pay extra for my cake to be put in a box because I love the cute pink bird stamp they put on the top.
The staff are always really upbeat and can advise you on their best tasting cakes. The 'red velvet' cupcakes were flying out the door when I visited, however I opted for something with a bit more flavour - the lemon frosted cake followed by a bannana muffin (carrot cake was sold out).
It is pricey but I love the fact that when I walk out I feel inspired and always want to (and often do) go home and make similar cakes.
6 out of 6 people found this review helpful.
Review of Pasha
25 Sep 07, 14:12
Cous Cous to die for
I went to Pasha at lunch time on a weekday and it was very empty, however I am told by friends that it gets really busy in the evenings.
From the moment you walk in the decor blows you away. It really does feel like your stepping into a resturant in Marroco. It is very elaborate and really stunning.
The staff were all really helpful, as with any new resturant and menu arrangement I am never quite sure how large the portions are and thus how much to order (especially with tapas style food). They are more than happy to explain all the dishes and typical native ways to enjoy the food.
The food it's self was devine, I have eaten in similar places but the quality of food in Pasha was superior. The cosus cous in particular should be mentioned as it was the lightest and best I have ever tasted, as was the merguez sausages .
Price wise it was reasonable, a three course meal for two with all the trimmings (we were very hungry) was about £80 and that included after dinner mint tea and pasteries (the waitresses can pour the tea from the pot to a tiny glass from a distance of appox one meter it is really quite impressive).
I would love to go back in the evening and see the belly dancing that they put on, I think it would be the cherry on a well iced cake.
4 out of 4 people found this review helpful.