Aysha's reviews
Review of Cinephilia
13 Nov 07, 15:10
Cinephilia 
This place boasts an incredible selection of films from around the world. It has everything you could possibly ever want to watch- from Hollywood blockbusters to independent Vietnamese films, this place has it all. The staff aren't particularly friendly, I must admit, but then I wouldn't really want to go into a video shop and have to ask people to recommend stuff. However, if you do need help, generally the staff are very kind and will help you by suggesting some alternatives to the usual tripe much of the cinematic world throws out each year. It's great if you fancy something a little different, and can be a hilarious way to spend an hour or so, as it will invariably take you that long to navigate the shelves and find something that you really want!
0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.
Review of Little Italy
13 Nov 07, 15:03
Little Italy
This place is like a little taverna you'd stumble on in the backstreet of Rome, and as such, has lovely, home-cooked food which tastes fab, and friendly, quiet service which makes you feel comfortable and satisfied. I've been here a couple of times and have never failed to be delighted with the food- it's all very fresh pasta and pizza dishes with lovely antipasti sides and a nice range of drinks available to supplement the eating. The decor is old but quite shabby chic, and lends itself to the food available on the menu. It's also pretty reasonably priced, but sometimes it can be difficult to get a seat, particularly on a busy weekend night, so it is probably best to book in advance. I'd highly recommend this place if you and a few mates want a cheap and cheerful dinner with plenty of atmosphere to soak up whilst you soak up the wine!
0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.
Review of Goose At The Fighting Cocks
03 Oct 07, 15:14
The Fighting Cocks 
The Fighting Cocks in Moseley has recently undergone a refurbishment that deserves to win prizes. It is housed in a 19th century building that has been completely renovated and looks like one of those pubs you see in a style magazine. I have so many good things to say about this pub I don't know where to start! Seeing as this is a review about a pub, I'll start with the bar- it's massive. It wraps around the length of the pub, and there's usually loads of bar staff who are willing to top up your drinks. There's a staggering selection of beer, and an especially good mix of continental draught beers to get your tastebuds going. Beers can be accompanied by a pint glass of pistachios, which at £2 are a bit on the expensive side, but great for sharing. If you get bored, you can seat yourself at one of the many tables and engage in an old-fashioned board game like Scrabble or Monopoly. There are even occasionally tournaments, when you can test your might against another gamester! This is one of many nice touches that gives The Fighting Cocks its unique atmosphere. It has been a non-smoking pub since it re-opened last year, and so was well prepared for the smoking ban with a designated smokers' area outside in a well decorated and well heated courtyard. The usual crowd is a mix of arty types (typical Moseley residents), Guardian readers and a lot of students. The pub attracts a good mixture of clientele, although the majority do tend to be mid-late twenties/early thirties, so a bit older than the crowds you'd find in Birmingham town centre pubs/bars. The Fighting Cocks can be busy at weekends, but it is never too full, and I've not been when there's been a queue outside to get in. Door staff are friendly, but incredibly firm when it comes to closing time, so make sure you finish your drink in plenty of time! Food also plays a central role in The Fighting Cocks ongoing popularity- it's gastro-pub fare which is well cooked using organic and fresh produce, and pretty reasonably priced at around £7 for a main meal. The Sunday roasts are fantastic, and it is a great place to go on a Sunday when you've nothing to do but read your papers and eat. Its location is in the heart of Moseley Village, and is easy enough to find outside of Birmingham town centre, though it would probably be around a £10 tax ride away (or a £1.40 bus ride on the No 50- the most frequent bus service in Europe). I would highly recommend the Fighting Cocks to anyone who has an interest in sampling a great local pub whose atmosphere and food are well worth the travelling out of town for!
0 out of 0 people found this review helpful.