Helen's reviews
Review of Automat
02 Jun 08, 16:37
How do you like your eggs in the morning? 
Automat is deservedly getting 5 stars and here's why:
From the moment I spotted this American eatery I was determined to sample it's wears, however being this over zealous about a place can lead to disappointment. I was so pleased that this was not the case with Automat.
It is nestled snugly - almost hidden on Dover Street and looks incredibly unassuming from the outside. However on entering you are propelled into what feels a little bit like the 1930's America. The decor is immaculate and interesting the white and bottle green rectangular titles the cover the walls contrast beautifully with the dark wood paneling. Making the scene feel reminiscent of a Hopper painting, or a set from Bugsy Malone.
The most interesting bit about the decor is the amazing trailer type tunnel that leads you through to the conservatory main dining area. It hosts a bunch of Vintage American booth style seating, whilst being low in celling height - adding the the trailer feel.
On to the food, now this is a place that knows how to do brunch. Weekend brunch is extensive and hearty. Despite the main American theme the menu is varied and you know you have hit gold when you want almost everything on the menu. Different types of eggs, burgers, macaroni cheese, pasta, pancakes, soups and much more are all on offer - guaranteed to fill you up.
The portions were big and though prices were not the cheapest (it is in Mayfair) I thought they were better value for money than many other, not so good places I have had brunch. The food was great value for money considering the quality, however the drinks are very over-priced, but it's worth it for the great food.
I opted for the Eggs Benedict and my fellow dinner the brunch burger. Both were huge and dreamily tasty. We then shared American pancakes for a desert and they came topped with syrup, fresh strawberries and sauce. Yum!
The service was excellent, I thought it might have been stuffy, but everyone was lovely and professional. Great quality everything and even when I was full up all I could think about was 'when am I coming back for my next visit - and what I'm going to have!'
1 out of 1 person 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 The Ritz Hotel
16 Jan 08, 17:38
Tea for two, and two for tea!
All the great things people say about the Ritz are all true - they really are! I recently got taken here for afternoon tea on my Birthday and what a treat it was. From the moment you walk into the lobby the quintessential Englishness is overwhelming.
The decor is fantastically grand and kept to an impeccable standard, the waiters and staff are attentive yet incredibly discreet and the quality of everything in the building is amazing.
High Tea is served in the Palm Court area of the hotel and as you dine you are entertained by an impressive pianist at a baby grand piano. The tea room is breath taking in all its cream, gold and mural glory. It is awash with starched white linen, silver teapots and three tiered cake stands. There was not one table free and its popularity was even more apparent in the six week waiting list - up to six months for a weekend slot.
The food was divine sandwiches and hand crafted cakes were served first - followed by fresh warm scones (raisin and plain). The choices of tea were overwhelming, but as a real tea fanatic I opted for the Darjeeling - the champagne of teas! It says something of the quality when this place can make sandwiches, cakes and scones taste so good. Portions were re-filled often - thus it was incredibly filling.
I can't rate the overall experience enough, it was lovely from start to finish - not just because it was the Ritz but because it was all such quality and attention to detail at every level.
Expensive but worth every penny!
4 out of 4 people found this review helpful.