Helen's reviews
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 Hummingbird Bakery
26 Nov 07, 18:03
Love it, Love it, Love it! 
I have been to both the Portobello Road store and now this one. I think I am sold on this one. It is just that bit calmer, plus they have a seating area which is a real bonus. You can eat your cupcakes in the warm, with a nice glass bottle of Diet Coke (heaven).
I am totally smitten with their vanilla frosted cupcakes - they are so fresh tasting, they just melt in your mouth. The sponge is so light, they don't feel like a lead weight after you have eaten them.
Everything about this place is beautiful and stylish, it's pink and brown interior is very chic and so complimentary to the cakes that they serve. They are a little expensive, but as a treat they are totally worth it, plus it really is an experience.
The staff are always upbeat and get to wear great super cute uniforms of fitted pink hummingbird sweat tops (I want one).
The bakery has a great atmosphere and not only are the cakes amazing, but they also play some pretty hot tunes too (Nouvelle Vague is a nice sound to eat cakes to).
I can't recommend this place highly enough.
0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.