Restaurant
The TreeHouse
78 South End
Croydon
CR0 1DP
Phone:- 0208 688 9837
Website www.treehousepeople.com
Overview
Eva and I were in the TreeHouse bar on Sunday, having a drink, and decided to try out their restaurant.
The Treehouse is a bar and restaurant, serving imaginative dishes far removed from traditional wine bar and pub fayre.
Ambience
The TreeHouse is a quirkily decorated bar and restaurant, occupying the premises of a former pub. The outside of the building is illuminated by a wall of white fairy lights.
Inside, the ceiling is also illuminated by a “net” of the same fairy lights interspersed with tree branches. The emphasis of the décor is wood, wood and wood. The chairs in both the bar and restaurant range from an eclectic mix of traditional wooden four legged affairs to exotic carved tree trunks.
The bar is cosy and positioned at the front of the Treehouse, the restaurant is open to the bar yet secluded and intimate.
We sat by the fireplace, which had been decorated with a mosaic of broken crockery. The intimate ambience of the restaurant was enhanced by the fact that it was illuminated by a bountiful number of candles.
A live Latin band played in the corner of the bar, the music was good and not intrusive.
The bar was quiet, but the restaurant was quite busy; unusual for a Sunday night in Croydon.
Menu
The main menu had a variety of gourmet dishes including; gigot of lamb, scallops, ribs, vegetable shepherds pie, pan fried fillet of sea bass and smoked bacon & stilton salad. There was also a blackboard list of specials.
Service
The staff, in both the bar and restaurant, were very friendly and welcoming. I was particularly pleased that our waitress was honest enough to advise us not to have the lamb, as it was apparently a little tough.
Food
I chose the beetroot and pine nut risotto to start with. This was superb, the risotto was creamy and rich. The taste was a well balanced blend of nuts, rice and cream; topped off with a few shavings of Parmesan.
I decided to try the calves liver for my main course. This was excellent, thick and succulent. The liver had been cooked pink, just as I like it, and was exceptionally tender and flavoursome. It was served on a bed of hazelnut mash, with bacon slices. The mash was delightful.
Eva started with the scallops and peppers. These were lightly poached in white wine, and served with a piquant medley of peppers.
The scallops were excellent, tender and juicy; the portion was just right for a starter.
Eva then opted for the guinea fowl for her main course. This dish consisted of a breast and leg of guinea fowl, stuffed with black pudding; roasted and served on a bed of garlic crushed new potatoes.
The dish was first class, the black pudding complemented the tender and succulent guinea fowl; and the potatoes were a delight.
I will have that myself next time we go there.
We pigged out, and had a side dish of hazelnut mashed potatoes as well; this of course was not really required.
The meal, which included a bottle of Chablis and liqueurs, came to £83 including service.
Overall Opinion
This is definitely one of Croydon’s better restaurants, and one of the few that does not serve reheated or microwaved food. We heartily endorse The Treehouse, and will definitely be visiting it again.
Monday, January 17, 2005
Monday, December 20, 2004
Restaurant
Die Ecke
Tegelbacken 6, Box 195
Stockholm S-101 23
Sweden
Phone (46) (8) 4123400
Website www.sheratonstockholm.com/en/restaurants/die_ecke/
Overview
Eva and I were in Stockholm last weekend, doing some pre Christmas partying, we decided to try out Die Ecke; a Bavarian bierstubbe, which serves traditional Bavarian food.
Ambience
Die Ecke was exceptionally cosy and inviting.
It was modelled on a typical Bavarian bierstubbe; with a wooden panelled dining room and a small bar, where you could enjoy the many German beers on offer.
The style of the restaurant was German rustic, of the “old school”. Wooden tables, chairs and panelling abounded.
It offered a very pleasant atmosphere for an intimate evening, or for a larger gathering with friends.
Menu
The menu offered a good selection of Bavarian food including; Weiner Schnitzel, sausages, ham hocks and Goulash soup.
In addition to German wines, there was an excellent choice of good quality German beers.
Service
The staff were exceptionally friendly, welcoming and efficient. They spoke German, Swedish and English; and I guess a few other languages as well.
Food
Eva made a pre meal “attack” on the salad bar, which was available to all diners at no extra cost; this provided a good selection of green salads and tomatoes.
We both started with the Goulash soup, Eva had a small bowl (which was quite large) and I had a large bowl (which was very large!).
The soup was excellent, spicy and flavoursome. It contained a good quantity of meat and peppers, and made a most excellent starter.
I chose the Bavarian platter for my main course. This consisted of a generous selection of various Bavarian sausages (fried and boiled), meatloaf and ham. This was served with a healthy dollop of creamy, rich mashed potato.
My meal was excellent, hearty and tasty; definitely to be recommended.
Eva chose the Wiener Schnitzel for her main course. This was a generous sized escalope of tender succulent veal, bread crumbed and fried. It was served plain with a lemon wedge, and boiled potatoes.
She was delighted with her choice.
The meal, which included several bottles of good quality German beer, came to 852SEK before service.
Overall Opinion
A splendid restaurant, we heartily recommend it.
Die Ecke
Tegelbacken 6, Box 195
Stockholm S-101 23
Sweden
Phone (46) (8) 4123400
Website www.sheratonstockholm.com/en/restaurants/die_ecke/
Overview
Eva and I were in Stockholm last weekend, doing some pre Christmas partying, we decided to try out Die Ecke; a Bavarian bierstubbe, which serves traditional Bavarian food.
Ambience
Die Ecke was exceptionally cosy and inviting.
It was modelled on a typical Bavarian bierstubbe; with a wooden panelled dining room and a small bar, where you could enjoy the many German beers on offer.
The style of the restaurant was German rustic, of the “old school”. Wooden tables, chairs and panelling abounded.
It offered a very pleasant atmosphere for an intimate evening, or for a larger gathering with friends.
Menu
The menu offered a good selection of Bavarian food including; Weiner Schnitzel, sausages, ham hocks and Goulash soup.
In addition to German wines, there was an excellent choice of good quality German beers.
Service
The staff were exceptionally friendly, welcoming and efficient. They spoke German, Swedish and English; and I guess a few other languages as well.
Food
Eva made a pre meal “attack” on the salad bar, which was available to all diners at no extra cost; this provided a good selection of green salads and tomatoes.
We both started with the Goulash soup, Eva had a small bowl (which was quite large) and I had a large bowl (which was very large!).
The soup was excellent, spicy and flavoursome. It contained a good quantity of meat and peppers, and made a most excellent starter.
I chose the Bavarian platter for my main course. This consisted of a generous selection of various Bavarian sausages (fried and boiled), meatloaf and ham. This was served with a healthy dollop of creamy, rich mashed potato.
My meal was excellent, hearty and tasty; definitely to be recommended.
Eva chose the Wiener Schnitzel for her main course. This was a generous sized escalope of tender succulent veal, bread crumbed and fried. It was served plain with a lemon wedge, and boiled potatoes.
She was delighted with her choice.
The meal, which included several bottles of good quality German beer, came to 852SEK before service.
Overall Opinion
A splendid restaurant, we heartily recommend it.
Thursday, November 25, 2004
Restaurant
Jardin de Provence
40-42 South End
Croydon
Surrey
Phone:- 0208 255 0045
Website www.lebienmanger.com
Overview
Eva and I decided to try out Jardin de Provence, which has been taken over by the owner of what was Le Bien Manger, on Friday.
Jardin de Provence serves their interpretation of French style cuisine.
Ambience
Jardin offers seating for around 250 people, in a modern and stylish setting. There is a bar running down and a main dining area, part of which is elevated; then there is also a private dining area.
We sat in the elevated section, which afforded us a view of the bar and the kitchen; which could be seen through a large glass window.
The tables were laid with linen cloths and a selection of glassware, for wine and water. The atmosphere was busy and lively, as there was a private dinner in the adjacent function room.
There were café prints and glass mirrors on the walls. The off white ceiling was subtly contrasted by the orange pillars.
Our welcome was warm, and the atmosphere comfortable.
Menu
The menu contained a reasonable selection of French style food including; onion soup, oysters, scallops, snails, duck breast and sole. Rather perversely Jardin serves pasta as well, which of course has nothing to do with French cuisine.
There were some specials on a blackboard, as well as the a la carte selection.
I would say, that for a restaurant to describe itself as French, it needs to offer a little more traditional French food than Jardin has on its menu; eg lamb cassoulet, beef bourguignon and chicken chasseur.
Additionally, I would suggest that plain grilled steaks and cutlets are also offered; aside from those on the menu which are covered in sauces.
Service
The staff were very friendly, efficient and prompt.
One member of staff bore a striking resemblance to Oliver Letwin (Tory party Shadow Chancellor), given the Tories ratings in the polls it is entirely possible that he was working there.
Food
I started with the leek soup. This was good, hot and creamy with a good taste of leeks.
I chose one of the specials for my main course, braised lamb shank. This came in a rich red wine sauce. Now whilst there was nothing wrong per se with it; it is fair to say it was not the best lamb shank that I have ever had. To my view it had been cooked at too high a temperature, rather than the low long braising that is required. The result was that it was a little dry, and the meat did not slip gently off the bone as it should do.
Eva started with the scallops, these were sautéed with mushrooms, herbs and cream; they were presented on a bed of mashed potatoes. These were excellent, and she was very pleased with this dish.
Eva chose the chicken breast stuffed with spinach, in a tomato sauce. Whilst it tasted alright, it was not exceptional; Eva felt, and I concur, that the chicken was bland and dry.
The meal came with sauté potatoes and a selection of vegetables.
The meal, which included a bottle of Pouilly Fume and several liqueurs, came to £76 including service.
Overall Opinion
In our opinion, whilst the atmosphere is good, the food needs a little more attention and imagination.
Jardin de Provence
40-42 South End
Croydon
Surrey
Phone:- 0208 255 0045
Website www.lebienmanger.com
Overview
Eva and I decided to try out Jardin de Provence, which has been taken over by the owner of what was Le Bien Manger, on Friday.
Jardin de Provence serves their interpretation of French style cuisine.
Ambience
Jardin offers seating for around 250 people, in a modern and stylish setting. There is a bar running down and a main dining area, part of which is elevated; then there is also a private dining area.
We sat in the elevated section, which afforded us a view of the bar and the kitchen; which could be seen through a large glass window.
The tables were laid with linen cloths and a selection of glassware, for wine and water. The atmosphere was busy and lively, as there was a private dinner in the adjacent function room.
There were café prints and glass mirrors on the walls. The off white ceiling was subtly contrasted by the orange pillars.
Our welcome was warm, and the atmosphere comfortable.
Menu
The menu contained a reasonable selection of French style food including; onion soup, oysters, scallops, snails, duck breast and sole. Rather perversely Jardin serves pasta as well, which of course has nothing to do with French cuisine.
There were some specials on a blackboard, as well as the a la carte selection.
I would say, that for a restaurant to describe itself as French, it needs to offer a little more traditional French food than Jardin has on its menu; eg lamb cassoulet, beef bourguignon and chicken chasseur.
Additionally, I would suggest that plain grilled steaks and cutlets are also offered; aside from those on the menu which are covered in sauces.
Service
The staff were very friendly, efficient and prompt.
One member of staff bore a striking resemblance to Oliver Letwin (Tory party Shadow Chancellor), given the Tories ratings in the polls it is entirely possible that he was working there.
Food
I started with the leek soup. This was good, hot and creamy with a good taste of leeks.
I chose one of the specials for my main course, braised lamb shank. This came in a rich red wine sauce. Now whilst there was nothing wrong per se with it; it is fair to say it was not the best lamb shank that I have ever had. To my view it had been cooked at too high a temperature, rather than the low long braising that is required. The result was that it was a little dry, and the meat did not slip gently off the bone as it should do.
Eva started with the scallops, these were sautéed with mushrooms, herbs and cream; they were presented on a bed of mashed potatoes. These were excellent, and she was very pleased with this dish.
Eva chose the chicken breast stuffed with spinach, in a tomato sauce. Whilst it tasted alright, it was not exceptional; Eva felt, and I concur, that the chicken was bland and dry.
The meal came with sauté potatoes and a selection of vegetables.
The meal, which included a bottle of Pouilly Fume and several liqueurs, came to £76 including service.
Overall Opinion
In our opinion, whilst the atmosphere is good, the food needs a little more attention and imagination.
Monday, November 22, 2004
Restaurant
The George Inn
Borough High Street
Southwark
London
Phone:- 020 7407 2056
Overview
Eva and I were near London Bridge the other evening, and decided to try out the George Inn; a pub and restaurant.
The George is London's only surviving galleried coaching inn.
Ambience
The pub was rebuilt in 1676, and retains many of the original features. The ground floor is divided into several connecting bars. There's a wealth of lattice windows and oak beams.
The restaurant is on the top floor.
We had not booked. However, the restaurant was not busy; and the time was relatively early 9:15, the restaurant was not scheduled to close until 10:00.
I asked if we could get a table in ten minutes, allowing us time to have a drink downstairs.
I was told in rather a brusque manner that they were closing early that evening, as they would be opening early the next day. Given the “take it or leave it attitude” we decided to leave it, and went elsewhere.
Menu
I have no idea, as we did not get a chance to see it.
Service
Brusque and unwelcoming.
Food
N/A
Overall Opinion
Given the unwelcoming attitude, we do not recommend this establishment.
The George Inn
Borough High Street
Southwark
London
Phone:- 020 7407 2056
Overview
Eva and I were near London Bridge the other evening, and decided to try out the George Inn; a pub and restaurant.
The George is London's only surviving galleried coaching inn.
Ambience
The pub was rebuilt in 1676, and retains many of the original features. The ground floor is divided into several connecting bars. There's a wealth of lattice windows and oak beams.
The restaurant is on the top floor.
We had not booked. However, the restaurant was not busy; and the time was relatively early 9:15, the restaurant was not scheduled to close until 10:00.
I asked if we could get a table in ten minutes, allowing us time to have a drink downstairs.
I was told in rather a brusque manner that they were closing early that evening, as they would be opening early the next day. Given the “take it or leave it attitude” we decided to leave it, and went elsewhere.
Menu
I have no idea, as we did not get a chance to see it.
Service
Brusque and unwelcoming.
Food
N/A
Overall Opinion
Given the unwelcoming attitude, we do not recommend this establishment.
Thursday, November 18, 2004
Restaurant
Luigi’s
15 Tavistock Street
London
Phone:- 020-7240 1795
Website www.luigisofcoventgarden.com
Overview
Eva and I were near Covent Garden, the other evening, and decided to try out Luigi’s. Luigi’s is a privately owned Italian restaurant, that was established over 37 years ago.
Luigi’s is nearby the main theatres and nightlife of London’s West End.
Ambience
We had not booked, and the restaurant was very busy. However, the staff managed to find us a good table in the main dining room.
Luigi’s has a main dining room, and 3 individual private dining rooms; it can therefore cater for larger groups, other then the normal 4-6 people.
The restaurant was cheerful, comfortable and pleasantly decorated. The ceiling was white with light oak beams, interspersed with a large number of fans to circulate the air.
The walls were painted green and decorated with photos of personalities from the world of cinema, opera and theatre both and present. The tables were laid with white linen cloths and napkins.
Our welcome was warm, and the atmosphere lively.
Menu
The menu contained a good selection of Italian dishes ranging from the familiar eg carbonara, smoked salmon, Bresaola, Gnocchi, Carpaccio and rack of lamb to the more exotic eg quails’ eggs in a pastry boat and pheasant ravioli in a wild mushroom sauce.
Pizza lovers need not bother coming here; no pizzas!
Service
The staff were friendly, efficient and prompt.
I would also like to thank them for seeking us out in the restaurant, and returning Eva’s wallet; she had left this in the rest room, and it had been handed over to the staff by another diner. We were grateful for their initiative and honesty.
Food
I started with the Spaghetti Carbonara, this was a good quality version of the classic dish. The spaghetti was cooked just right, not too soft not too hard; and the sauce was cheesy, flavoursome and rich but not thick and claggy. I was very impressed with their version of this dish.
I chose the Bistecca Barolo for my main course. This was a sirloin steak served with a Barolo and mushroom sauce.
Now I have to say, that I was not that impressed with their version of this dish. The steak was tender and cooked rare, as requested. However, the sauce, although it looked dark red and inviting, was incredibly bitter and overpowering. I would charitably suggest that too much, of a poor quality, Barolo had been used to the detriment of the other ingredients. Were I uncharitable, I might suggest that the Barolo used by the chef had gone sour.
The dish came with vegetables and rosemary potatoes, the latter were excellent by the way.
Eva started with the avocado Gorgonzola, this was superb. The avocado creamy and smooth, topped with an incredibly rich Gorgonzola sauce. She was delighted with her choice.
Unfortunately Eva suffered the same disappointment as myself, with regard to her choice of main course. She chose the ravioli with pheasant.
This dish was presented in a very appealing manner on the plate. It consisted of five large bright yellow pillows of pasta, stuffed with pheasant, which were surrounded by a rich dark mushroom sauce. However, in our view, the sauce massively overpowered the taste of the pheasant and ravioli; and frankly, was not that pleasant.
The meal, which included a bottle of Chardonnay and liqueurs, came to £102 including service.
Overall Opinion
In our opinion, the quality of the main dishes that we ate let the restaurant down. We doubt that we will be returning.
Luigi’s
15 Tavistock Street
London
Phone:- 020-7240 1795
Website www.luigisofcoventgarden.com
Overview
Eva and I were near Covent Garden, the other evening, and decided to try out Luigi’s. Luigi’s is a privately owned Italian restaurant, that was established over 37 years ago.
Luigi’s is nearby the main theatres and nightlife of London’s West End.
Ambience
We had not booked, and the restaurant was very busy. However, the staff managed to find us a good table in the main dining room.
Luigi’s has a main dining room, and 3 individual private dining rooms; it can therefore cater for larger groups, other then the normal 4-6 people.
The restaurant was cheerful, comfortable and pleasantly decorated. The ceiling was white with light oak beams, interspersed with a large number of fans to circulate the air.
The walls were painted green and decorated with photos of personalities from the world of cinema, opera and theatre both and present. The tables were laid with white linen cloths and napkins.
Our welcome was warm, and the atmosphere lively.
Menu
The menu contained a good selection of Italian dishes ranging from the familiar eg carbonara, smoked salmon, Bresaola, Gnocchi, Carpaccio and rack of lamb to the more exotic eg quails’ eggs in a pastry boat and pheasant ravioli in a wild mushroom sauce.
Pizza lovers need not bother coming here; no pizzas!
Service
The staff were friendly, efficient and prompt.
I would also like to thank them for seeking us out in the restaurant, and returning Eva’s wallet; she had left this in the rest room, and it had been handed over to the staff by another diner. We were grateful for their initiative and honesty.
Food
I started with the Spaghetti Carbonara, this was a good quality version of the classic dish. The spaghetti was cooked just right, not too soft not too hard; and the sauce was cheesy, flavoursome and rich but not thick and claggy. I was very impressed with their version of this dish.
I chose the Bistecca Barolo for my main course. This was a sirloin steak served with a Barolo and mushroom sauce.
Now I have to say, that I was not that impressed with their version of this dish. The steak was tender and cooked rare, as requested. However, the sauce, although it looked dark red and inviting, was incredibly bitter and overpowering. I would charitably suggest that too much, of a poor quality, Barolo had been used to the detriment of the other ingredients. Were I uncharitable, I might suggest that the Barolo used by the chef had gone sour.
The dish came with vegetables and rosemary potatoes, the latter were excellent by the way.
Eva started with the avocado Gorgonzola, this was superb. The avocado creamy and smooth, topped with an incredibly rich Gorgonzola sauce. She was delighted with her choice.
Unfortunately Eva suffered the same disappointment as myself, with regard to her choice of main course. She chose the ravioli with pheasant.
This dish was presented in a very appealing manner on the plate. It consisted of five large bright yellow pillows of pasta, stuffed with pheasant, which were surrounded by a rich dark mushroom sauce. However, in our view, the sauce massively overpowered the taste of the pheasant and ravioli; and frankly, was not that pleasant.
The meal, which included a bottle of Chardonnay and liqueurs, came to £102 including service.
Overall Opinion
In our opinion, the quality of the main dishes that we ate let the restaurant down. We doubt that we will be returning.
Tuesday, November 09, 2004
Restaurant
La Barca
80-81 Lower Marsh
London
Phone:- 0207 928 2226
Website www.labarca.co.uk
Overview
Last Thursday Eva and I, having quaffed an ale in the nearby Firestation pub in Waterloo, wandered off to La Barca to have a meal.
La Barca is a traditional Italian restaurant, situated near to The Old Vic theatre.
Ambience
La Barca was very busy that evening, being crowded with theatregoers from The Old Vic. However, despite the fact that we had not booked, we were found a comfortable table without any delay.
La Barca was decorated in a cosy and welcoming manner; red tiles on the floor, linen tablecloths, wine bottles stacked on racks around the walls and a wooden beamed white ceiling.
Since the restaurant was located near to The Old Vic, there was an extensive array of photos of stars (past and present) who have dined in the restaurant.
The atmosphere was lively and stimulating.
Menu
The menu contained an extensive array of Italian meat, fish and pasta dishes including; Gamberoni Burro e Aglio, Insalata Tricolore, Gamberetti Cocktail, Pate della Casa, Bresaola Con Parmigiano, Pollo all’Agrodolce, Pollo Luciano, Pulcino Pasquale and Guelfi e Ghibellini Toscani.
There was also a very tempting cold buffet counter, which offered a good choice of starters; for those who wished to mix and match a taste of Italy for themselves.
Service
The staff were friendly and efficient. We were offered a bowl of excellent garlic olives and bread to munch on, whilst we perused the menu.
Food
I started with the Guelfi e Ghibellini, which was lasagne and cannelloni served together “half and half”. This was excellent. The two dishes complimented each other, without either one overpowering the other. The sauce was rich and creamy; whilst the pasta was succulent and moist, and was generously stuffed with meat seasoned with basil and garlic.
I chose the spring chicken in olive oil, flavoured with chillies, for my main course. This was decently cooked; the bird being succulent and tender. The oil and chilli did not overpower the delicate flavour of the poussin. The dish was accompanied by roast potatoes, green beans and carrots.
I was very happy with my choice.
Eva started with the crab, prawn, mango and avocado salad; which was well presented, and tasted superb.
Eva then chose the fillet of veal with truffles for her main course. This dish consisted of a tender, thinly cut fillet of veal, cooked with truffles in a white wine cream sauce. The dish was very rich and unctuous, but not overpowering; the ingredients, again, complimented rather than overpowered each other.
Eva also chose the roast potatoes, green beans and carrots.
We eschewed, as we were full, the dessert trolley. However, I would say that the variety of desserts on offer looked excellent; both well prepared and tempting.
The meal, which included a robust Barolo and liqueurs, came to £102 including service.
Overall Opinion
I am happy to recommend this restaurant. We will certainly be returning.
La Barca
80-81 Lower Marsh
London
Phone:- 0207 928 2226
Website www.labarca.co.uk
Overview
Last Thursday Eva and I, having quaffed an ale in the nearby Firestation pub in Waterloo, wandered off to La Barca to have a meal.
La Barca is a traditional Italian restaurant, situated near to The Old Vic theatre.
Ambience
La Barca was very busy that evening, being crowded with theatregoers from The Old Vic. However, despite the fact that we had not booked, we were found a comfortable table without any delay.
La Barca was decorated in a cosy and welcoming manner; red tiles on the floor, linen tablecloths, wine bottles stacked on racks around the walls and a wooden beamed white ceiling.
Since the restaurant was located near to The Old Vic, there was an extensive array of photos of stars (past and present) who have dined in the restaurant.
The atmosphere was lively and stimulating.
Menu
The menu contained an extensive array of Italian meat, fish and pasta dishes including; Gamberoni Burro e Aglio, Insalata Tricolore, Gamberetti Cocktail, Pate della Casa, Bresaola Con Parmigiano, Pollo all’Agrodolce, Pollo Luciano, Pulcino Pasquale and Guelfi e Ghibellini Toscani.
There was also a very tempting cold buffet counter, which offered a good choice of starters; for those who wished to mix and match a taste of Italy for themselves.
Service
The staff were friendly and efficient. We were offered a bowl of excellent garlic olives and bread to munch on, whilst we perused the menu.
Food
I started with the Guelfi e Ghibellini, which was lasagne and cannelloni served together “half and half”. This was excellent. The two dishes complimented each other, without either one overpowering the other. The sauce was rich and creamy; whilst the pasta was succulent and moist, and was generously stuffed with meat seasoned with basil and garlic.
I chose the spring chicken in olive oil, flavoured with chillies, for my main course. This was decently cooked; the bird being succulent and tender. The oil and chilli did not overpower the delicate flavour of the poussin. The dish was accompanied by roast potatoes, green beans and carrots.
I was very happy with my choice.
Eva started with the crab, prawn, mango and avocado salad; which was well presented, and tasted superb.
Eva then chose the fillet of veal with truffles for her main course. This dish consisted of a tender, thinly cut fillet of veal, cooked with truffles in a white wine cream sauce. The dish was very rich and unctuous, but not overpowering; the ingredients, again, complimented rather than overpowered each other.
Eva also chose the roast potatoes, green beans and carrots.
We eschewed, as we were full, the dessert trolley. However, I would say that the variety of desserts on offer looked excellent; both well prepared and tempting.
The meal, which included a robust Barolo and liqueurs, came to £102 including service.
Overall Opinion
I am happy to recommend this restaurant. We will certainly be returning.
Sunday, August 29, 2004
Restaurant
L’Alsace
39 Avenue Des Champs Elysees
75008 Paris
France
Phone: - 01 5393 9700
Website www.restaurantalsace.com
Overview
Eva and I were in Paris on the 60th anniversary of its liberation from Nazi occupation. We decided to try one of the many restaurants on the Champs Elysees, and opted for L’Alsace.
L’Alsace is a restaurant specialising in the cuisines of the Alsace region of France, and is open an impressive seven days a week, 24 hours a day. It is described as the ambassador of Alsacian cuisine.
Ambience
L’Alsace was an enormous restaurant and bar, with dining areas on both the ground and basement levels; plus a lively alfresco dining area on the Champs Elysees.
We opted for an open window seat, on the very edge of the Champs Elysees. This afforded us an excellent view of the hustle and bustle of this most famous of Paris thoroughfares. Which, even though it was close to midnight, was packed with people.
The décor of L’Alsace was opulent and elegant. The ceiling was dark panelled veneer contrasting with the mirrored walls, the tables were laid with linen cloths.
Even though the restaurant was enormous, it was heaving with people; and had an excellent atmosphere.
Menu
The menu was a homage to Alsace cuisine, and contained a splendid array of sausages, pigs totters, pork, calf liver escalope with parsley and garlic, breast fillet of duck with peaches and tagliatelle, rib of beef grilled on the bone, Veal Paillard in breadcrumbs and seafood dishes. The menu was in English and in French.
Service
The staff were friendly, efficient and spoke English.
Food
We both chose the quiche for our starters. This was a splendid dish, a generous cut of home made quiche; prepared with cheese and local ham, served with a good quality salad.
An excellent way to start our gastronomic tour of Alsace.
I chose the Choucroute Maison, the house speciality, for my main course. This was partly cooked on a primus stove near our table, and consisted of boiled potatoes, a massive quantity of well flavoured sauerkraut, four different types of regional sausage, boiled smoked fatty bacon, a boiled ham hock, a slice of gammon and smoked ham.
The serving was so large, that half of the dish came on a separate silver platter resting on a hot plate.
I was impressed with this hearty feast, maybe my cardiologist would not have been so impressed at my eating this at 11:00pm; but life is for living!
The meal was excellent, the meat tender and flavoursome; complemented by the cabbage with mustard seeds and potatoes. I managed to finish it all, just!
Eva went for a boiled ham hock for her main course. This was well cooked, the tender ham falling off the bone when teased with the knife. As an added bonus, the hock had been shaved.
It came with a rich sweet honey sauce and mashed potatoes.
Absolutely superb!
We decided that we could not manage a dessert. No surprises there then.
The meal, which included a very good bottle of Gewurztraminer, came to 76 Euros before service.
Overall Opinion
A first class restaurant, make sure that you have a healthy appetite before you go though.
L’Alsace
39 Avenue Des Champs Elysees
75008 Paris
France
Phone: - 01 5393 9700
Website www.restaurantalsace.com
Overview
Eva and I were in Paris on the 60th anniversary of its liberation from Nazi occupation. We decided to try one of the many restaurants on the Champs Elysees, and opted for L’Alsace.
L’Alsace is a restaurant specialising in the cuisines of the Alsace region of France, and is open an impressive seven days a week, 24 hours a day. It is described as the ambassador of Alsacian cuisine.
Ambience
L’Alsace was an enormous restaurant and bar, with dining areas on both the ground and basement levels; plus a lively alfresco dining area on the Champs Elysees.
We opted for an open window seat, on the very edge of the Champs Elysees. This afforded us an excellent view of the hustle and bustle of this most famous of Paris thoroughfares. Which, even though it was close to midnight, was packed with people.
The décor of L’Alsace was opulent and elegant. The ceiling was dark panelled veneer contrasting with the mirrored walls, the tables were laid with linen cloths.
Even though the restaurant was enormous, it was heaving with people; and had an excellent atmosphere.
Menu
The menu was a homage to Alsace cuisine, and contained a splendid array of sausages, pigs totters, pork, calf liver escalope with parsley and garlic, breast fillet of duck with peaches and tagliatelle, rib of beef grilled on the bone, Veal Paillard in breadcrumbs and seafood dishes. The menu was in English and in French.
Service
The staff were friendly, efficient and spoke English.
Food
We both chose the quiche for our starters. This was a splendid dish, a generous cut of home made quiche; prepared with cheese and local ham, served with a good quality salad.
An excellent way to start our gastronomic tour of Alsace.
I chose the Choucroute Maison, the house speciality, for my main course. This was partly cooked on a primus stove near our table, and consisted of boiled potatoes, a massive quantity of well flavoured sauerkraut, four different types of regional sausage, boiled smoked fatty bacon, a boiled ham hock, a slice of gammon and smoked ham.
The serving was so large, that half of the dish came on a separate silver platter resting on a hot plate.
I was impressed with this hearty feast, maybe my cardiologist would not have been so impressed at my eating this at 11:00pm; but life is for living!
The meal was excellent, the meat tender and flavoursome; complemented by the cabbage with mustard seeds and potatoes. I managed to finish it all, just!
Eva went for a boiled ham hock for her main course. This was well cooked, the tender ham falling off the bone when teased with the knife. As an added bonus, the hock had been shaved.
It came with a rich sweet honey sauce and mashed potatoes.
Absolutely superb!
We decided that we could not manage a dessert. No surprises there then.
The meal, which included a very good bottle of Gewurztraminer, came to 76 Euros before service.
Overall Opinion
A first class restaurant, make sure that you have a healthy appetite before you go though.
Tuesday, August 24, 2004
Restaurant
Bistro Mania
28 South End
Croydon
Phone:- 0208 688 3839
Website www.bistromaniacroydon.co.uk
Overview
It was an unseasonably wet August evening in Croydon. Eva and I were in the pub, and did not fancy wandering around too far to find a place to eat; so we dashed to the nearby Bistro Mania.
A continental café and restaurant, with live music.
Ambience
Bistro Mania was a small restaurant; cheerfully decorated with white walls, pine floors and a yellow ceiling with rotating fans.
The green clothed tables were decorated with fresh flowers, and the walls with paintings and a small alcove housing a large plant.
The live music on offer was a robust one-man act, harking back to the 1960’s and 70’s. I suspect that it appealed to a certain generation, who enjoy listening to songs such as “My way” being belted out.
Although the restaurant was not very busy, the atmosphere was jolly.
Menu
The menu was an eclectic mixture of Tapas, Italian and French.
Service
The staff were friendly and efficient. We were offered a bowl of excellent garlic olives to munch on, whilst we perused the menu.
Food
I chose the potato tortilla to start with. This was a good sized omelette, which had been freshly cooked, containing potato and onion. It was very pleasant, and a good start to the meal.
I then opted for the lamb cutlets in rich red wine and herb sauce for my main course. Although the three cutlets were tender, and properly cooked, I felt that they were a somewhat miniscule size. I could have eaten six of that size, easily; that being said, maybe I am just too greedy!
The sauce was full bodied and pleasant, not overpowering.
The dish came with sauté potatoes and vegetables, which were agreeable; but nothing special.
Eva started with tiger prawns in a tomato and garlic sauce. Both the prawns and the sauce had an excellent flavour.
However, the prawns were served in their shells in the hot sauce. This made them very difficult and messy to eat.
Eva then opted for the veal in a white wine and sage sauce for her main course. The veal was cut thin, and served with ham and a very fresh piquant white wine sauce with fresh sage. It was a well made and presented dish.
The meal, which included a bottle of Pinot Grigio and liqueurs, came to £57 before service.
Overall Opinion
If you like live music, then pop along; it’s a laugh.
Bistro Mania
28 South End
Croydon
Phone:- 0208 688 3839
Website www.bistromaniacroydon.co.uk
Overview
It was an unseasonably wet August evening in Croydon. Eva and I were in the pub, and did not fancy wandering around too far to find a place to eat; so we dashed to the nearby Bistro Mania.
A continental café and restaurant, with live music.
Ambience
Bistro Mania was a small restaurant; cheerfully decorated with white walls, pine floors and a yellow ceiling with rotating fans.
The green clothed tables were decorated with fresh flowers, and the walls with paintings and a small alcove housing a large plant.
The live music on offer was a robust one-man act, harking back to the 1960’s and 70’s. I suspect that it appealed to a certain generation, who enjoy listening to songs such as “My way” being belted out.
Although the restaurant was not very busy, the atmosphere was jolly.
Menu
The menu was an eclectic mixture of Tapas, Italian and French.
Service
The staff were friendly and efficient. We were offered a bowl of excellent garlic olives to munch on, whilst we perused the menu.
Food
I chose the potato tortilla to start with. This was a good sized omelette, which had been freshly cooked, containing potato and onion. It was very pleasant, and a good start to the meal.
I then opted for the lamb cutlets in rich red wine and herb sauce for my main course. Although the three cutlets were tender, and properly cooked, I felt that they were a somewhat miniscule size. I could have eaten six of that size, easily; that being said, maybe I am just too greedy!
The sauce was full bodied and pleasant, not overpowering.
The dish came with sauté potatoes and vegetables, which were agreeable; but nothing special.
Eva started with tiger prawns in a tomato and garlic sauce. Both the prawns and the sauce had an excellent flavour.
However, the prawns were served in their shells in the hot sauce. This made them very difficult and messy to eat.
Eva then opted for the veal in a white wine and sage sauce for her main course. The veal was cut thin, and served with ham and a very fresh piquant white wine sauce with fresh sage. It was a well made and presented dish.
The meal, which included a bottle of Pinot Grigio and liqueurs, came to £57 before service.
Overall Opinion
If you like live music, then pop along; it’s a laugh.
Monday, August 16, 2004
The Guinea Grill
Restaurant
The Guinea Grill
30 Bruton Place
London
Phone:- 0207 409 1728
Website www.theguinea.co.uk
Overview
Eva and I took a trip to Mayfair the other evening, to try out The Guinea Grill; a restaurant, just off Berkley Square, famous for its steaks and award winning pies.
It is attached to a 19th century pub, The Guinea, and is open Monday to Saturday. The Guinea has a loyal customer base going back some years since it was established in 1952, and is very popular, I advise you book at least 24 hours in advance.
Ambience
The Guinea Grill is nestled in a small alleyway just off Berkley Square, near the Rolls Royce and Bentley showrooms.
The tiny entrance, attended by a uniformed doorman, leads into the reception and grill area. This is where we got our first inkling of the style and quality of the restaurant. Just in front of the open grill was a chilled glass counter; which displayed a selection of 28 day aged steaks and fresh seafood.
The dining area was cosy, and decorated in the traditional manner of a pub/dining room from the 19th century.
The walls were half wood panelled and half painted sunset yellow, they were decorated with oil paintings. The carpet was tartan check, and the tables were laid with linen cloths and napkins.
The restaurant was busy, and tables were placed close to each other (but not uncomfortably close). Eva sat with her back to the wall on a bench, which provided seating for the tables on either side of us.
I would note that the one part of the décor that was definitely not 19th century, was the air conditioning unit in the ceiling. This, unfortunately, was situated directly above us; and we felt the full “benefit” of its output. We had to ask for it to be turned off, as we felt we were sitting in a refrigerator.
The atmosphere of the restaurant was very jolly, and not at all “stuffy”.
Menu
The Guinea is noted for its steaks, and its pies which have won national awards. Needless to say, the menu was dominated by steaks, lamb and pies. However, there was also a good selection of fish, chicken and seafood on offer; and an impressive wine list.
Service
The staff were very professional and courteous. We were even asked what types of gin we would like in our pre dinner cocktail. Old school service!
Food
I started with half a cold lobster (there were hot ones on the menu as well), served with a salad and mayonnaise.
The flesh of the lobster had been fully “de-shelled”, so I had no need to employ the shell cracker that had been laid on the table; I confess that I was rather disappointed at not having to “work for my lobster”!
The lobster was fresh and fleshy, it was a good choice for a starter.
I chose the 12oz sirloin for my main course, with chips and gratin tomatoes.
The meat was cooked medium (as requested), and was tender and flavoursome; as it should have been, given that it was hung for 28 days. The layer of fat around one side, which is essential for flavour and moisture, had a most excellent smoky flavour from the grill.
The chips were homemade, not frozen fries from a packet, and had a good flavour and texture. The tomatoes were topped with grated cheese, and provided an ideal accompaniment to my meat.
Eva started with the crayfish and prawn avocado salad. This was a generous helping of prawns in their shells and crayfish, served with chunks of ripe avocado in a good quality salad.
The dish was fresh and flavoursome. During this course Eva indulged herself in the bread basket; which contained an excellent selection of home baked breads, including a particularly flavoursome bread made with sultanas.
Eva chose one of the award winning steak and kidney pies for her main course. She was not disappointed. The pie came in its own dish, and was a good size. The pastry was flaky and light, the gravy rich, piquant and flavoursome; the meat and kidneys very tender, and generous in quantity.
As a side dish Eva chose the baked potato. This was a very good sized potato which had been baked, not micro waved; it was fluffy, and was served with a good dollop of sour cream.
Eva was delighted with her choice.
The meal, which included cocktails, a very good bottle of Chablis and liqueurs came to £158 including service.
Overall Opinion
A very enjoyable evening, and good quality restaurant. I can well understand why it has a loyal customer base, we would like to add ourselves to that list.
The Guinea Grill
30 Bruton Place
London
Phone:- 0207 409 1728
Website www.theguinea.co.uk
Overview
Eva and I took a trip to Mayfair the other evening, to try out The Guinea Grill; a restaurant, just off Berkley Square, famous for its steaks and award winning pies.
It is attached to a 19th century pub, The Guinea, and is open Monday to Saturday. The Guinea has a loyal customer base going back some years since it was established in 1952, and is very popular, I advise you book at least 24 hours in advance.
Ambience
The Guinea Grill is nestled in a small alleyway just off Berkley Square, near the Rolls Royce and Bentley showrooms.
The tiny entrance, attended by a uniformed doorman, leads into the reception and grill area. This is where we got our first inkling of the style and quality of the restaurant. Just in front of the open grill was a chilled glass counter; which displayed a selection of 28 day aged steaks and fresh seafood.
The dining area was cosy, and decorated in the traditional manner of a pub/dining room from the 19th century.
The walls were half wood panelled and half painted sunset yellow, they were decorated with oil paintings. The carpet was tartan check, and the tables were laid with linen cloths and napkins.
The restaurant was busy, and tables were placed close to each other (but not uncomfortably close). Eva sat with her back to the wall on a bench, which provided seating for the tables on either side of us.
I would note that the one part of the décor that was definitely not 19th century, was the air conditioning unit in the ceiling. This, unfortunately, was situated directly above us; and we felt the full “benefit” of its output. We had to ask for it to be turned off, as we felt we were sitting in a refrigerator.
The atmosphere of the restaurant was very jolly, and not at all “stuffy”.
Menu
The Guinea is noted for its steaks, and its pies which have won national awards. Needless to say, the menu was dominated by steaks, lamb and pies. However, there was also a good selection of fish, chicken and seafood on offer; and an impressive wine list.
Service
The staff were very professional and courteous. We were even asked what types of gin we would like in our pre dinner cocktail. Old school service!
Food
I started with half a cold lobster (there were hot ones on the menu as well), served with a salad and mayonnaise.
The flesh of the lobster had been fully “de-shelled”, so I had no need to employ the shell cracker that had been laid on the table; I confess that I was rather disappointed at not having to “work for my lobster”!
The lobster was fresh and fleshy, it was a good choice for a starter.
I chose the 12oz sirloin for my main course, with chips and gratin tomatoes.
The meat was cooked medium (as requested), and was tender and flavoursome; as it should have been, given that it was hung for 28 days. The layer of fat around one side, which is essential for flavour and moisture, had a most excellent smoky flavour from the grill.
The chips were homemade, not frozen fries from a packet, and had a good flavour and texture. The tomatoes were topped with grated cheese, and provided an ideal accompaniment to my meat.
Eva started with the crayfish and prawn avocado salad. This was a generous helping of prawns in their shells and crayfish, served with chunks of ripe avocado in a good quality salad.
The dish was fresh and flavoursome. During this course Eva indulged herself in the bread basket; which contained an excellent selection of home baked breads, including a particularly flavoursome bread made with sultanas.
Eva chose one of the award winning steak and kidney pies for her main course. She was not disappointed. The pie came in its own dish, and was a good size. The pastry was flaky and light, the gravy rich, piquant and flavoursome; the meat and kidneys very tender, and generous in quantity.
As a side dish Eva chose the baked potato. This was a very good sized potato which had been baked, not micro waved; it was fluffy, and was served with a good dollop of sour cream.
Eva was delighted with her choice.
The meal, which included cocktails, a very good bottle of Chablis and liqueurs came to £158 including service.
Overall Opinion
A very enjoyable evening, and good quality restaurant. I can well understand why it has a loyal customer base, we would like to add ourselves to that list.
Monday, August 09, 2004
Restaurant
The Gaucho Grill
29 Westferry Circus
London
Phone:- 0207 987 9494
Website www.thegauchogrill.co.uk
Overview
Eva and I braved the terrorist threat and took a trip, via river taxi, to Canary Wharf. We went there to try out The Gaucho Grill, an Argentinean steak house situated on the banks of the Thames.
Ambience
The Gaucho Grill had both inside and outside seating. The inside was bright and glitzy, with a bar and dining area decorated with cowhides. The outside dining area, on the riverbank, afforded a splendid view of London.
It was a sunny, and warm, day and the outside dining area was packed with a lively and jolly mixture of tourists and local office workers. However, we managed to get a table outside; under the trees that marked the boundary between The Gaucho Grill and the riverbank boardwalk.
The chairs were moulded plastic, and reasonably comfortable. However, the tables had been set on a support in order to stop them wobbling on the gravel (which was used to surface the al fresco dining area); as such they were an inch or so too high for the chairs. It might be better, in my view, to dispense with the gravel and use paving slabs instead.
During the course of our meal, I did battle with a rather persistent wasp; which I eventually, and heroically, managed to despatch to the next world.
Menu
A meat lover’s paradise! The menu offered a very good range of steaks; sirloins, rump, fillet, rib eye that you could order to any size you wished.
There were also chicken and fish dishes, as well as oysters, black bean soup and prawns.
Service
The staff were very friendly and welcoming. Our waiter was very amiable and knowledgeable. He explained each of the cuts of meat, with the aid of a platter on which the different cuts of raw steaks were displayed.
Food
I started with the chicken and beef empanadas. These were 2 medium sized filo pastry parcels, one filled with beef and the other with chicken; served with salad of red and yellow cherry tomatoes.
The beef empanada was pleasant, if a little bland. However, the chicken was very well spiced and had a good smoky flavour; this was my favourite one out of the two.
I chose a 300g Chorizo sirloin for my main course (I resisted 400g). This melted in the mouth like butter, and had a good flavour and succulence.
I chose a good sized baked potato with butter to accompany it, together with Corn O’Brien as a side dish. This consisted of sweet corn which had been sautéed with butter spring onions, and a little red pepper; it made an ideal accompaniment to the steak.
Eva started with the exotically named Gambas Ceviche. This was a small dish of fleshy prawns and avocado, in a piquant tandoori flavour sauce. Rather perversely the dish came with a side dish of popcorn, apparently this was to cool the pallet. We found the dish to be very mild, and the popcorn’s alleged cooling effect unnecessary.
Eva chose a 225g rib eye, with béarnaise sauce, for her main course. This was good cut of meat, marbled with succulent fat. It was splendidly tender and flavoursome.
Eva chose pureed potatoes to accompany the meat. These were very special, as they were exceptionally rich and creamy, and had been pureed with a red pepper. This gave the dish an orange hue, and a piquant flavour.
Eva was delighted, who wouldn’t be having me as a dining companion?
The meal, which included cocktails, a good bottle of Merlot and liqueurs, came to £117 before service.
Overall Opinion
Our verdict?
Jump on a river taxi, and indulge your flesh eating fantasies. We will definitely visit The Gaucho Grill again.
The Gaucho Grill
29 Westferry Circus
London
Phone:- 0207 987 9494
Website www.thegauchogrill.co.uk
Overview
Eva and I braved the terrorist threat and took a trip, via river taxi, to Canary Wharf. We went there to try out The Gaucho Grill, an Argentinean steak house situated on the banks of the Thames.
Ambience
The Gaucho Grill had both inside and outside seating. The inside was bright and glitzy, with a bar and dining area decorated with cowhides. The outside dining area, on the riverbank, afforded a splendid view of London.
It was a sunny, and warm, day and the outside dining area was packed with a lively and jolly mixture of tourists and local office workers. However, we managed to get a table outside; under the trees that marked the boundary between The Gaucho Grill and the riverbank boardwalk.
The chairs were moulded plastic, and reasonably comfortable. However, the tables had been set on a support in order to stop them wobbling on the gravel (which was used to surface the al fresco dining area); as such they were an inch or so too high for the chairs. It might be better, in my view, to dispense with the gravel and use paving slabs instead.
During the course of our meal, I did battle with a rather persistent wasp; which I eventually, and heroically, managed to despatch to the next world.
Menu
A meat lover’s paradise! The menu offered a very good range of steaks; sirloins, rump, fillet, rib eye that you could order to any size you wished.
There were also chicken and fish dishes, as well as oysters, black bean soup and prawns.
Service
The staff were very friendly and welcoming. Our waiter was very amiable and knowledgeable. He explained each of the cuts of meat, with the aid of a platter on which the different cuts of raw steaks were displayed.
Food
I started with the chicken and beef empanadas. These were 2 medium sized filo pastry parcels, one filled with beef and the other with chicken; served with salad of red and yellow cherry tomatoes.
The beef empanada was pleasant, if a little bland. However, the chicken was very well spiced and had a good smoky flavour; this was my favourite one out of the two.
I chose a 300g Chorizo sirloin for my main course (I resisted 400g). This melted in the mouth like butter, and had a good flavour and succulence.
I chose a good sized baked potato with butter to accompany it, together with Corn O’Brien as a side dish. This consisted of sweet corn which had been sautéed with butter spring onions, and a little red pepper; it made an ideal accompaniment to the steak.
Eva started with the exotically named Gambas Ceviche. This was a small dish of fleshy prawns and avocado, in a piquant tandoori flavour sauce. Rather perversely the dish came with a side dish of popcorn, apparently this was to cool the pallet. We found the dish to be very mild, and the popcorn’s alleged cooling effect unnecessary.
Eva chose a 225g rib eye, with béarnaise sauce, for her main course. This was good cut of meat, marbled with succulent fat. It was splendidly tender and flavoursome.
Eva chose pureed potatoes to accompany the meat. These were very special, as they were exceptionally rich and creamy, and had been pureed with a red pepper. This gave the dish an orange hue, and a piquant flavour.
Eva was delighted, who wouldn’t be having me as a dining companion?
The meal, which included cocktails, a good bottle of Merlot and liqueurs, came to £117 before service.
Overall Opinion
Our verdict?
Jump on a river taxi, and indulge your flesh eating fantasies. We will definitely visit The Gaucho Grill again.
Thursday, July 22, 2004
Restaurant
La Novita
186 The Broadway
Wimbledon
London
Phone:- 0208 540 8887
Website www.lanovitawimbledon.co.uk
Overview
Eva and I were wandering around Wimbledon the other Saturday, and decided to take “pot luck” by trying out La Novita.
This is a family owned and run restaurant, that serves Italian food with a regional twist.
Ambience
La Novita was absolutely packed with people when we arrived. However, the staff were able to find us a decent table for two out of harms way.
The layout of and ambience La Novita, which was not that large, was more like an upmarket café rather than a traditional restaurant; it was cosy, inviting and lively. The walls were painted white, decorated with red pen and ink murals depicting scenes of eating and drinking. At the far end of the restaurant, in front of the kitchen, there was a chilled deli counter containing a selection of meats and salads. On top of the counter was a meat slicer, which was used to freshly prepare the cold cuts of meat for the diners.
Wine bottles were generously stacked on wire racks around the wall, and the floor was stripped pine. The tables were laid with linen cloths.
Menu
The menu offered a very good range of regional dishes including; brown wheat pasta, cuttlefish, meatballs with dumplings, duck, seabass, steaks, meat and fish dishes. All the recipes had been devised with a little more thought and imagination than the standard Italian fayre.
Service
The service was very friendly and efficient, the staff were very welcoming and helpful. Even though the restaurant was packed, and there was a centre table of around 12 people, the staff managed to attend to all the diners needs with good humour and courtesy. They also managed to weave their way between the tightly packed tables without a single spillage.
We were given an appetiser of ciabatta, with olives, drenched in olive oil; it was fresh and pleasant.
Food
I chose the brown wheat spaghetti with spicy Italian sausage, in a cheese sauce, for my starter. This was absolutely excellent. The spaghetti had a very special flavour, definitely a cut above the ordinary white spaghetti served elsewhere. There was a generous quantity of chopped spicy sausage in the dish, which was very flavoursome but not overpowering. The cheese sauce was rich and creamy, but not oily or floury. This was an excellent start to the meal.
I chose the spring chicken with garlic for my main course. This was delightful. It was tender and succulent, the garlic was not overpowering, the chicken had been cooked moist and to perfection. It was served on a bed of aubergines, roasted carrots and mushrooms. This was accompanied by a large side dish of potatoes, these had been sautéed in olive oil with rosemary and garlic; superb!
Eva started with the cold cut selection. This was freshly prepared from the deli counter, and consisted of; cuts of ham, carpacio, and Italian sausage; all served on a bed of carrots, and aubergines doused in olive oil. It was very fresh and tasty.
Eva chose a pizza for her main course. This was a light dough based pizza topped with cheese and tomato; layered with artichokes, mushrooms, bacon and red peppers. It was flavoursome and of good quality. She was very pleased with her choice.
The meal, which included cocktails a bottle of Pinot Grigio and brandies came to £62 before service.
Overall Opinion
La Novita was a very good find, the food was definitely top quality; it was a venue that was clearly very popular with the local inhabitants of Wimbledon. The next time we are there, we will definitely visit it again.
La Novita
186 The Broadway
Wimbledon
London
Phone:- 0208 540 8887
Website www.lanovitawimbledon.co.uk
Overview
Eva and I were wandering around Wimbledon the other Saturday, and decided to take “pot luck” by trying out La Novita.
This is a family owned and run restaurant, that serves Italian food with a regional twist.
Ambience
La Novita was absolutely packed with people when we arrived. However, the staff were able to find us a decent table for two out of harms way.
The layout of and ambience La Novita, which was not that large, was more like an upmarket café rather than a traditional restaurant; it was cosy, inviting and lively. The walls were painted white, decorated with red pen and ink murals depicting scenes of eating and drinking. At the far end of the restaurant, in front of the kitchen, there was a chilled deli counter containing a selection of meats and salads. On top of the counter was a meat slicer, which was used to freshly prepare the cold cuts of meat for the diners.
Wine bottles were generously stacked on wire racks around the wall, and the floor was stripped pine. The tables were laid with linen cloths.
Menu
The menu offered a very good range of regional dishes including; brown wheat pasta, cuttlefish, meatballs with dumplings, duck, seabass, steaks, meat and fish dishes. All the recipes had been devised with a little more thought and imagination than the standard Italian fayre.
Service
The service was very friendly and efficient, the staff were very welcoming and helpful. Even though the restaurant was packed, and there was a centre table of around 12 people, the staff managed to attend to all the diners needs with good humour and courtesy. They also managed to weave their way between the tightly packed tables without a single spillage.
We were given an appetiser of ciabatta, with olives, drenched in olive oil; it was fresh and pleasant.
Food
I chose the brown wheat spaghetti with spicy Italian sausage, in a cheese sauce, for my starter. This was absolutely excellent. The spaghetti had a very special flavour, definitely a cut above the ordinary white spaghetti served elsewhere. There was a generous quantity of chopped spicy sausage in the dish, which was very flavoursome but not overpowering. The cheese sauce was rich and creamy, but not oily or floury. This was an excellent start to the meal.
I chose the spring chicken with garlic for my main course. This was delightful. It was tender and succulent, the garlic was not overpowering, the chicken had been cooked moist and to perfection. It was served on a bed of aubergines, roasted carrots and mushrooms. This was accompanied by a large side dish of potatoes, these had been sautéed in olive oil with rosemary and garlic; superb!
Eva started with the cold cut selection. This was freshly prepared from the deli counter, and consisted of; cuts of ham, carpacio, and Italian sausage; all served on a bed of carrots, and aubergines doused in olive oil. It was very fresh and tasty.
Eva chose a pizza for her main course. This was a light dough based pizza topped with cheese and tomato; layered with artichokes, mushrooms, bacon and red peppers. It was flavoursome and of good quality. She was very pleased with her choice.
The meal, which included cocktails a bottle of Pinot Grigio and brandies came to £62 before service.
Overall Opinion
La Novita was a very good find, the food was definitely top quality; it was a venue that was clearly very popular with the local inhabitants of Wimbledon. The next time we are there, we will definitely visit it again.
Sunday, July 11, 2004
Restaurant
Smiths of Smithfield
67 Charterhouse Street
London
Phone:- 0207 251 7950
Website www.smithsofsmithfield.co.uk
Overview
Eva and I were in the Smithfield area of London the other day, and had reserved a table on the top floor of Smiths of Smithfield. Smiths of Smithfield is a Grade II listed four storey restaurant, next door to Smithfield Meat Market. This is a restaurant complex that specialises in serving organic meat, sourced from the Smithfield meat market.
We booked a table in the top floor restaurant, given the fact that it is very popular I advise you to book 48 hours in advance.
Ambience
The building was restored having been left unoccupied for 40 years. The ground floor open bar area has blasted brickwork, big windows, wrought iron columns and leather seats. The first floor is a cocktail bar, the next floor offers a casual dining room with woks and clay ovens. The top floor offers a more formal dining experience.
As noted we had booked a table on the top floor, we accessed this via the elevator in the main bar. The elevator was decorated in a red padded quilt, hanging from top to bottom of three sides of the elevator; it gave us the feeling we were going to a brothel rather than a restaurant.
The top floor restaurant was exceptionally busy, but not overcrowded. We were promptly greeted and shown to our table without delay.
I was very pleased to see that they had given us a good table by the window, in the far corner of the restaurant. This afforded us an excellent view of the London skyline, and a special view of the dome of the Old Bailey.
On fine summer days the floor to ceiling windows, which were on two sides of the room, can be opened and diners can eat on the wooden decked terrace. However, this night we were treated to a spectacular lightening storm, so nobody tried dining al fresco.
The restaurant was modern, bright and well laid out; a bar ran down one side of half of the room, padded benches down another side and freestanding tables took up the remaining space. The windows gave the place sense of space, and freshness. Tables were laid with linen cloths and napkins. The ceiling was dark slated wood, with spotlights.
Menu
The menu offered a good selection of meat a fish dishes including, crab, Dover sole, Longhorn sirloin and Welsh black fillet steaks, chicken and pork.
Service
The staff were very friendly and efficient, service was prompt and accurate. They were helpful and knowledgeable when explaining the sourcing of the meat. I was impressed to note that we were offered a choice of cooking methods for the steak, pan fried or grilled.
Food
I started with half a crab in its shell. This was a good sized half a crab, in its shell, served with a simple mayonnaise. The necessary shell crackers and flesh picking tool came with the dish; enabling me to have a very physical experience with my crab. The crab was first class, and very fresh. A good way to start to the meal.
Eva chose the smoked eel with bacon and beetroot for her appetisers. This came with mayonnaise and was served on a potato pancake with a salad. The taste was smoky but not overpowering, she was very pleased with her choice; a dish that she has not had since childhood.
We both chose the longhorn sirloin for our main courses, accompanied by béarnaise and horseradish sauce. This was a magnificent cut of sirloin, with a good layer of fat. It had been pan fried to seal in the juices. As it was a rare breed the taste and texture were very special, and totally different to the steaks served by other restaurants. The texture had more body than ordinary steaks owing to the denser flesh of the meat, and the flavour had a smoky sweet flavour. It was very special, and thoroughly enjoyable.
The steaks came with mashed potato, which was very rich and creamy, and chips that were 1 inch thick; these were absolutely gorgeous, some of the best that I have ever eaten in a restaurant.
I chose the 3 rhubarb dessert to finish with. This consisted of a slice of rhubarb pie, rhubarb jelly and rhubarb ice cream. Each had a good flavour, not to sweet or sour, this was a very pleasant way to finish the meal.
The meal, which included cocktails, a bottle of Chablis and liqueurs came to £152 including service.
Overall Opinion
A good quality restaurant, serving good quality food in a lively atmosphere. We are happy to recommend it.
Smiths of Smithfield
67 Charterhouse Street
London
Phone:- 0207 251 7950
Website www.smithsofsmithfield.co.uk
Overview
Eva and I were in the Smithfield area of London the other day, and had reserved a table on the top floor of Smiths of Smithfield. Smiths of Smithfield is a Grade II listed four storey restaurant, next door to Smithfield Meat Market. This is a restaurant complex that specialises in serving organic meat, sourced from the Smithfield meat market.
We booked a table in the top floor restaurant, given the fact that it is very popular I advise you to book 48 hours in advance.
Ambience
The building was restored having been left unoccupied for 40 years. The ground floor open bar area has blasted brickwork, big windows, wrought iron columns and leather seats. The first floor is a cocktail bar, the next floor offers a casual dining room with woks and clay ovens. The top floor offers a more formal dining experience.
As noted we had booked a table on the top floor, we accessed this via the elevator in the main bar. The elevator was decorated in a red padded quilt, hanging from top to bottom of three sides of the elevator; it gave us the feeling we were going to a brothel rather than a restaurant.
The top floor restaurant was exceptionally busy, but not overcrowded. We were promptly greeted and shown to our table without delay.
I was very pleased to see that they had given us a good table by the window, in the far corner of the restaurant. This afforded us an excellent view of the London skyline, and a special view of the dome of the Old Bailey.
On fine summer days the floor to ceiling windows, which were on two sides of the room, can be opened and diners can eat on the wooden decked terrace. However, this night we were treated to a spectacular lightening storm, so nobody tried dining al fresco.
The restaurant was modern, bright and well laid out; a bar ran down one side of half of the room, padded benches down another side and freestanding tables took up the remaining space. The windows gave the place sense of space, and freshness. Tables were laid with linen cloths and napkins. The ceiling was dark slated wood, with spotlights.
Menu
The menu offered a good selection of meat a fish dishes including, crab, Dover sole, Longhorn sirloin and Welsh black fillet steaks, chicken and pork.
Service
The staff were very friendly and efficient, service was prompt and accurate. They were helpful and knowledgeable when explaining the sourcing of the meat. I was impressed to note that we were offered a choice of cooking methods for the steak, pan fried or grilled.
Food
I started with half a crab in its shell. This was a good sized half a crab, in its shell, served with a simple mayonnaise. The necessary shell crackers and flesh picking tool came with the dish; enabling me to have a very physical experience with my crab. The crab was first class, and very fresh. A good way to start to the meal.
Eva chose the smoked eel with bacon and beetroot for her appetisers. This came with mayonnaise and was served on a potato pancake with a salad. The taste was smoky but not overpowering, she was very pleased with her choice; a dish that she has not had since childhood.
We both chose the longhorn sirloin for our main courses, accompanied by béarnaise and horseradish sauce. This was a magnificent cut of sirloin, with a good layer of fat. It had been pan fried to seal in the juices. As it was a rare breed the taste and texture were very special, and totally different to the steaks served by other restaurants. The texture had more body than ordinary steaks owing to the denser flesh of the meat, and the flavour had a smoky sweet flavour. It was very special, and thoroughly enjoyable.
The steaks came with mashed potato, which was very rich and creamy, and chips that were 1 inch thick; these were absolutely gorgeous, some of the best that I have ever eaten in a restaurant.
I chose the 3 rhubarb dessert to finish with. This consisted of a slice of rhubarb pie, rhubarb jelly and rhubarb ice cream. Each had a good flavour, not to sweet or sour, this was a very pleasant way to finish the meal.
The meal, which included cocktails, a bottle of Chablis and liqueurs came to £152 including service.
Overall Opinion
A good quality restaurant, serving good quality food in a lively atmosphere. We are happy to recommend it.
Wednesday, July 07, 2004
Restaurant
The Crazy H
50 South End
Croydon
Phone:- 0208 688 6132
Website www.crazyh.co.uk
Overview
It was the 4th of July, and so Eva and I decided to try out The Crazy H (formerly Rockwell’s) an American diner in Croydon.
Ambience
The Crazy H was a bright and cheerful bar and restaurant, themed to resemble an American diner from the era of Rockwell’s paintings.
The Crazy H had a cosy bar with sofas and chairs, a main dining area and a secluded dining area by the open grill/kitchen.
The main dining area, to the left of the bar, was dominated by a 1950’s style jukebox. This fine piece of equipment was on free play mode, and so I took a trip down memory lane and played some splendid hits from the late 70’s and 80’s. However, don’t be alarmed the volume was not set so high that it was intrusive.
The tables were covered in check cloths, and the walls decorated with American memorabilia. Most notably there was a fine selection of Norman Rockwell prints, harking back to an era that never really existed.
One missed opportunity; Crazy H had forgotten it was July the 4th. Maybe it would be worthwhile thinking ahead to Halloween and Thanksgiving, and coming up with a special theme for those evenings.
Menu
In addition to the main menu, there was also a children’s menu valid until 19:30.
However, moving on to the adults; the main menu offered a good selection of “diner type” dishes. These included; potato skins, ribs, nachos, fajitas, 14 types of homemade burgers, steaks and chicken.
Service
The staff were very friendly and welcoming. The service was quick and efficient.
Food
I chose the potato skins, with cheese and bacon, for my starter. They were very tasty, a good sized portion laden with cheese and bacon; hot and flavoursome.
I opted for the rib eye steak for my main course, served with fries and fried eggs. I was very pleased with my choice; the steak was a good quality piece of meat, and had been cooked medium as requested. The fries were tasty, and sufficient in quantity.
Rather rarely for me, I chose to have a dessert; and opted for the apple pie with cream. This was very good. The slice of pie had a generous amount of apples under the crust; these were not mushy, but chunky with a good texture and flavour. The pie had just the right amount of sweetness, and had a hint of cinnamon.
Eva started with the breaded mushrooms. These had a nice texture and flavour, and were not soggy or greasy. They came with a good quality spicy dip.
Eva chose the “Mexicano” for her main course. This was a home made burger served in a massive sour dough bap. It came with cheese and a jalapeno and salsa topping, together with a large baked potato.
The burger was of good quality, both in terms of texture and taste. It definitely put to shame those mass produced slurry burgers proffered by certain well known chains.
Eva finished off with an ice cream.
The meal, which included and exceptionally good bottle of Pinot Grigio and an Irish coffee, came to just under £54 including service.
Overall Opinion
Great fun, worth a visit if you want a change from more formal dining.
The Crazy H
50 South End
Croydon
Phone:- 0208 688 6132
Website www.crazyh.co.uk
Overview
It was the 4th of July, and so Eva and I decided to try out The Crazy H (formerly Rockwell’s) an American diner in Croydon.
Ambience
The Crazy H was a bright and cheerful bar and restaurant, themed to resemble an American diner from the era of Rockwell’s paintings.
The Crazy H had a cosy bar with sofas and chairs, a main dining area and a secluded dining area by the open grill/kitchen.
The main dining area, to the left of the bar, was dominated by a 1950’s style jukebox. This fine piece of equipment was on free play mode, and so I took a trip down memory lane and played some splendid hits from the late 70’s and 80’s. However, don’t be alarmed the volume was not set so high that it was intrusive.
The tables were covered in check cloths, and the walls decorated with American memorabilia. Most notably there was a fine selection of Norman Rockwell prints, harking back to an era that never really existed.
One missed opportunity; Crazy H had forgotten it was July the 4th. Maybe it would be worthwhile thinking ahead to Halloween and Thanksgiving, and coming up with a special theme for those evenings.
Menu
In addition to the main menu, there was also a children’s menu valid until 19:30.
However, moving on to the adults; the main menu offered a good selection of “diner type” dishes. These included; potato skins, ribs, nachos, fajitas, 14 types of homemade burgers, steaks and chicken.
Service
The staff were very friendly and welcoming. The service was quick and efficient.
Food
I chose the potato skins, with cheese and bacon, for my starter. They were very tasty, a good sized portion laden with cheese and bacon; hot and flavoursome.
I opted for the rib eye steak for my main course, served with fries and fried eggs. I was very pleased with my choice; the steak was a good quality piece of meat, and had been cooked medium as requested. The fries were tasty, and sufficient in quantity.
Rather rarely for me, I chose to have a dessert; and opted for the apple pie with cream. This was very good. The slice of pie had a generous amount of apples under the crust; these were not mushy, but chunky with a good texture and flavour. The pie had just the right amount of sweetness, and had a hint of cinnamon.
Eva started with the breaded mushrooms. These had a nice texture and flavour, and were not soggy or greasy. They came with a good quality spicy dip.
Eva chose the “Mexicano” for her main course. This was a home made burger served in a massive sour dough bap. It came with cheese and a jalapeno and salsa topping, together with a large baked potato.
The burger was of good quality, both in terms of texture and taste. It definitely put to shame those mass produced slurry burgers proffered by certain well known chains.
Eva finished off with an ice cream.
The meal, which included and exceptionally good bottle of Pinot Grigio and an Irish coffee, came to just under £54 including service.
Overall Opinion
Great fun, worth a visit if you want a change from more formal dining.
Tuesday, June 29, 2004
Restaurant
Abyssinia
Vanadisvagen 20
11346 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone:- 08 330840
Overview
Eva and I were in Stockholm for a mid-summer party last weekend. The night before the party, in order to “ring the changes”, we decided to try out an Abyssinian restaurant. This was located within 20 minutes walking distance of the centre of Stockholm.
Ambience
Abyssinia was a small, cheerful cosy African styled café. The walls were painted a cheery sun yellow, and were decorated with African artefacts and animal skins.
There was not that much space available for covers in the restaurant, therefore the tables were packed quite closely together to maximise yield to the owners.
That being said, it was the night before mid-summer and so was very quiet. On busy nights you may have to “hunker down” with your neighbours.
Menu
The menu (in Swedish and Abyssinian) offered a variety of Abyssinian dishes including lamb, beef, chicken and vegetables. There appeared to be no specific appetisers, I dare say the chef would accommodate you if you asked.
Service
The service was friendly and polite. Although the menu wasn’t in English, the waiter did speak English; and so communication was not an issue.
Food
Given the fact that neither of us had ever eaten Abyssinian food before, we opted for the most sensible dish to have under these circumstances; the house special.
This was an excellent way to sample a variety of the cuisine on offer.
The dish was served on a humungous plate, which was presented in a covered basket (to keep the heat in). Our meal included; chick peas, lentils, chicken in a spicy sauce, spiced minced lamb, spiced minced beef, hard boiled eggs, cabbage and carrots (rather similar to sauerkraut), spinach and cottage cheese.
These were served on a large piece of flat bread (with a consistency and taste similar to blini), which covered the plate.
Additional bread, folded like napkins, was provided to accompany the meal.
Incidentally, I should point out that you don’t use cutlery; but instead eat with your fingers. All good fun!
We thoroughly enjoyed our meal; each of the dishes had a special flavour which complemented the others.
As the meal was very filling, we had no need of starters or deserts.
Our meal, which included a robust bottle of Ethiopian wine, came to 510SEK before service.
Overall Opinion
A pleasant, unpretentious meal and restaurant; worth a visit if you want to try something different.
Abyssinia
Vanadisvagen 20
11346 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone:- 08 330840
Overview
Eva and I were in Stockholm for a mid-summer party last weekend. The night before the party, in order to “ring the changes”, we decided to try out an Abyssinian restaurant. This was located within 20 minutes walking distance of the centre of Stockholm.
Ambience
Abyssinia was a small, cheerful cosy African styled café. The walls were painted a cheery sun yellow, and were decorated with African artefacts and animal skins.
There was not that much space available for covers in the restaurant, therefore the tables were packed quite closely together to maximise yield to the owners.
That being said, it was the night before mid-summer and so was very quiet. On busy nights you may have to “hunker down” with your neighbours.
Menu
The menu (in Swedish and Abyssinian) offered a variety of Abyssinian dishes including lamb, beef, chicken and vegetables. There appeared to be no specific appetisers, I dare say the chef would accommodate you if you asked.
Service
The service was friendly and polite. Although the menu wasn’t in English, the waiter did speak English; and so communication was not an issue.
Food
Given the fact that neither of us had ever eaten Abyssinian food before, we opted for the most sensible dish to have under these circumstances; the house special.
This was an excellent way to sample a variety of the cuisine on offer.
The dish was served on a humungous plate, which was presented in a covered basket (to keep the heat in). Our meal included; chick peas, lentils, chicken in a spicy sauce, spiced minced lamb, spiced minced beef, hard boiled eggs, cabbage and carrots (rather similar to sauerkraut), spinach and cottage cheese.
These were served on a large piece of flat bread (with a consistency and taste similar to blini), which covered the plate.
Additional bread, folded like napkins, was provided to accompany the meal.
Incidentally, I should point out that you don’t use cutlery; but instead eat with your fingers. All good fun!
We thoroughly enjoyed our meal; each of the dishes had a special flavour which complemented the others.
As the meal was very filling, we had no need of starters or deserts.
Our meal, which included a robust bottle of Ethiopian wine, came to 510SEK before service.
Overall Opinion
A pleasant, unpretentious meal and restaurant; worth a visit if you want to try something different.
Tuesday, June 08, 2004
Restaurant
Christi
32 James Street
London
W1M 5HS
Phone:- 0207 935 0416
Overview
Eva and I were strolling around Oxford Street on Friday, and decided to take “pot luck” and try one of the numerous continental restaurants that have flourished in the back streets around that area.
We dropped in on Christi, an Italian restaurant.
Ambience
Christi is a jolly, lively Italian restaurant with ample seating inside and outside.
When we were there on Friday evening, since the weather was fine, the outside tables were packed with customers. However, the inside was a little more sedate and so we took a table inside.
The décor is “bistroesque”, the ceiling painted green and the numerous mirrors (painted with classic urns) that adorned the walls were back lit by green lights.
The tables were laid with linen cloths, white on top of red, together with red napkins.
Menu
The menu offered a good range of pasta, meat and fish dishes; the usual ones associated with Italian cuisine.
I would note that they do not serve smaller portions of pasta for starters, so order pasta as a starter only if you have a hearty appetite.
Service
The service was friendly and efficient, the staff were very welcoming and helpful.
Food
I chose the lasagne for my starter. This, refreshingly, had been baked not microwaved as in some establishments; it came bubbling hot in its earthenware serving dish.
The lasagne consisted of a generous quantity of spinach pasta interlayered with meat, and it was covered in a robust tomato based béchamel sauce. It was a good size for a starter; but perversely, as it was meant to be a main course, I would say a little small for its intended purpose.
I chose calves liver in a white wine and sage sauce for my main course.
This was excellent, the liver was cut thin, but was tender flavoursome and very succulent. The sauce complemented the liver without overwhelming it. I was pleased to note that fresh sage was used in the sauce, not dried.
I chose sauté potatoes and broccoli to accompany the dish. These were freshly prepared, and well cooked. A good choice in my view.
Eva chose the deep fried mozzarella to start with. This consisted of two large pieces of mozzarella covered in breadcrumbs and deep fried. They were served with a small side salad, and a tomato based sauce.
The mozzarella was nicely cooked, not at all greasy, and was complimented by the piquancy of the tomato sauce.
Eva chose ravioli in an asparagus and cream sauce for her main course.
This dish consisted of a generous portion of home-made meat filled pillows of pasta, covered in a rich (but not claggy) tasty asparagus and cheese sauce.
She was very pleased with her choice.
The meal, which included a robust Chianti and several Irish coffees, came to £90 including service.
Overall Opinion
A very pleasant restaurant, worth a visit if you are in the area; burdened down with purchases from Selfridges and the other stores on Oxford Street.
Christi
32 James Street
London
W1M 5HS
Phone:- 0207 935 0416
Overview
Eva and I were strolling around Oxford Street on Friday, and decided to take “pot luck” and try one of the numerous continental restaurants that have flourished in the back streets around that area.
We dropped in on Christi, an Italian restaurant.
Ambience
Christi is a jolly, lively Italian restaurant with ample seating inside and outside.
When we were there on Friday evening, since the weather was fine, the outside tables were packed with customers. However, the inside was a little more sedate and so we took a table inside.
The décor is “bistroesque”, the ceiling painted green and the numerous mirrors (painted with classic urns) that adorned the walls were back lit by green lights.
The tables were laid with linen cloths, white on top of red, together with red napkins.
Menu
The menu offered a good range of pasta, meat and fish dishes; the usual ones associated with Italian cuisine.
I would note that they do not serve smaller portions of pasta for starters, so order pasta as a starter only if you have a hearty appetite.
Service
The service was friendly and efficient, the staff were very welcoming and helpful.
Food
I chose the lasagne for my starter. This, refreshingly, had been baked not microwaved as in some establishments; it came bubbling hot in its earthenware serving dish.
The lasagne consisted of a generous quantity of spinach pasta interlayered with meat, and it was covered in a robust tomato based béchamel sauce. It was a good size for a starter; but perversely, as it was meant to be a main course, I would say a little small for its intended purpose.
I chose calves liver in a white wine and sage sauce for my main course.
This was excellent, the liver was cut thin, but was tender flavoursome and very succulent. The sauce complemented the liver without overwhelming it. I was pleased to note that fresh sage was used in the sauce, not dried.
I chose sauté potatoes and broccoli to accompany the dish. These were freshly prepared, and well cooked. A good choice in my view.
Eva chose the deep fried mozzarella to start with. This consisted of two large pieces of mozzarella covered in breadcrumbs and deep fried. They were served with a small side salad, and a tomato based sauce.
The mozzarella was nicely cooked, not at all greasy, and was complimented by the piquancy of the tomato sauce.
Eva chose ravioli in an asparagus and cream sauce for her main course.
This dish consisted of a generous portion of home-made meat filled pillows of pasta, covered in a rich (but not claggy) tasty asparagus and cheese sauce.
She was very pleased with her choice.
The meal, which included a robust Chianti and several Irish coffees, came to £90 including service.
Overall Opinion
A very pleasant restaurant, worth a visit if you are in the area; burdened down with purchases from Selfridges and the other stores on Oxford Street.
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