Restaurant
The Royal Garden
Shirley Hills Road
Shirley Hills
Croydon
CR0 5HQ
Phone:- 0208 654 6491
Website www.law-lin.com
Overview
Eva and I went to The Royal Garden Chinese restaurant, set in the beautiful wooded area of Shirley Hills, last Friday.
Ambience
This is a welcoming restaurant; tucked away in a secluded drive on the edge of the wooded area of Shirley Hills. The restaurant was very busy and pleasantly lively.
The restaurant consists of a bar, with a good sized seating area, and a main dining area that can accommodate a large number of people. I would recommend that you make a reservation, as the place was packed.
The décor, in some respects, is reminiscent of the less garish aspects of the eighties TV series Miami Vice. The bar area, is functional and bright; and is a good place to peruse the variety of dishes offered on the menu.
The restaurant is light, bright and warm; the floor is white marble and there are a few gigantic Chinese vases placed at various corners of the room. The tables are laid with yellow linen cloths and napkins.
The restaurant, as it has very large windows, affords exceptional views of the surrounding woodland.
Menu
The menu offers an excellent selection of Peking, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisine; in my view there is something for everyone.
Service
There was a large number of staff, all of whom were friendly and courteous. They were very accommodating when I asked if we could buy the teapot and cups at the end of the meal, and kindly wrapped them up for us.
Food
Since this was a Chinese restaurant, we decided to share; and selected an array of dishes to sample and enjoy. Our feast included:
● Peking duck, which was crisp and succulent served with piping hot steamed pancakes and a rich sweet plum sauce. This came with a large carved carrot decoration, more phallic than carrot!
● Spring rolls, which were not greasy; but light, crispy and held a well proportioned balance of meat and vegetables.
● Pork dumplings, these were delicate and succulent; not at all stodgy.
● Deep fried scallops, a generous portion of scallops coated in a light crispy batter and deep fried. Salty and tasty!
● Deep fried chicken with water chestnuts, a delicate flavoursome dish.
● Chicken in a black bean sauce. This was fried chicken in black beans, with chilli and green peppers; a piquant and tender dish, that complimented the other chicken dish.
● Egg fried rice and plain boiled rice accompanied our meal.
We finished with tea and liqueurs. The toothpicks, that we used for contemplative chewing, had decorative carvings at one end; a nice touch.
The meal, which included a bottle of Chablis, pre dinner cocktails and post dinner liqueurs, came to £108 before service. The teapot and cups were an extra £12.
Overall Opinion
We had an excellent evening and meal, we will definitely be returning.
Sunday, February 01, 2004
Restaurant
Mamma Angela
90 High Street
Croydon
CR0 1ND
Phone:- 0208 781 0540
Overview
Mama Angela is a cosy family friendly Italian restaurant owned, and run, by Nicky and his wife.
Eva and I braved the bad weather, and visited it last Saturday; here is a précis of our evening.
Ambience
The restaurant is cosy, intimate and welcoming. All guests are warmly welcomed by Nicky, who also makes sure he says goodbye to them at the end of the evening.
The main part of the restaurant is situated on the ground floor. However, there is also a function suite and bar downstairs which is suitable for parties and larger private gatherings.
Placed in the front window of the restaurant is a large refrigerated display; where you can select your desserts from the tempting array of cream cakes, chocolate and fruit soaked in liqueur. At the other end of the restaurant is a small bar.
The tables are decently spaced, and are laid with pink linen tablecloths and white linen napkins.
Menu
The menu offers a very good selection of Tuscan food including; meatballs, pizza, veal, fish, poultry and a wide selection of pasta dishes. In addition to the a la carte menu there is a specials menu posted on the wall, which is changed daily.
Service
The service is very friendly, fast and efficient. As soon as we were seated we were offered our menus, and a couple of bruschetta.
Food
I started with meatballs in a tomato and basil sauce. The meatballs were veal based and were firm and tasty. The sauce was rich and well flavoured with basil.
I chose the braised lamb shank for my main course. This was an excellent choice. The shank had been braised to perfection, and the meat literally fell off the bone. The lamb was served in a dark, rich wine and mint sauce which added an excellent flavour. The lamb shank comes with boiled potatoes; feeling hungry I also ordered some sauté potatoes as well. Both the boiled and sauté potatoes were well cooked and flavoursome.
Eva started with smoked salmon served with a side salad. This was generous in portion and of a decent quality.
She chose Veal Milanese as a main course. This consisted of a flattened escalope of veal coated in bread crumbs and fried in butter; served with spaghetti in a tomato sauce. The veal was tender and moist; it was well complemented by the generous portion of spaghetti which was served in a rich, but not overpowering, tomato sauce.
We finished with liqueurs, and I indulged in a nibble of the Stilton. However, the Stilton was too cold and had not as much flavour as I would have wished for; Nicky did not charge me for this.
The total bill, which included a good bottle of Chianti Reserva and several liqueurs, came to £80 before service.
Overall Opinion
Good quality food, served in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. I am happy to recommend Mama Angela, we will go again.
Mamma Angela
90 High Street
Croydon
CR0 1ND
Phone:- 0208 781 0540
Overview
Mama Angela is a cosy family friendly Italian restaurant owned, and run, by Nicky and his wife.
Eva and I braved the bad weather, and visited it last Saturday; here is a précis of our evening.
Ambience
The restaurant is cosy, intimate and welcoming. All guests are warmly welcomed by Nicky, who also makes sure he says goodbye to them at the end of the evening.
The main part of the restaurant is situated on the ground floor. However, there is also a function suite and bar downstairs which is suitable for parties and larger private gatherings.
Placed in the front window of the restaurant is a large refrigerated display; where you can select your desserts from the tempting array of cream cakes, chocolate and fruit soaked in liqueur. At the other end of the restaurant is a small bar.
The tables are decently spaced, and are laid with pink linen tablecloths and white linen napkins.
Menu
The menu offers a very good selection of Tuscan food including; meatballs, pizza, veal, fish, poultry and a wide selection of pasta dishes. In addition to the a la carte menu there is a specials menu posted on the wall, which is changed daily.
Service
The service is very friendly, fast and efficient. As soon as we were seated we were offered our menus, and a couple of bruschetta.
Food
I started with meatballs in a tomato and basil sauce. The meatballs were veal based and were firm and tasty. The sauce was rich and well flavoured with basil.
I chose the braised lamb shank for my main course. This was an excellent choice. The shank had been braised to perfection, and the meat literally fell off the bone. The lamb was served in a dark, rich wine and mint sauce which added an excellent flavour. The lamb shank comes with boiled potatoes; feeling hungry I also ordered some sauté potatoes as well. Both the boiled and sauté potatoes were well cooked and flavoursome.
Eva started with smoked salmon served with a side salad. This was generous in portion and of a decent quality.
She chose Veal Milanese as a main course. This consisted of a flattened escalope of veal coated in bread crumbs and fried in butter; served with spaghetti in a tomato sauce. The veal was tender and moist; it was well complemented by the generous portion of spaghetti which was served in a rich, but not overpowering, tomato sauce.
We finished with liqueurs, and I indulged in a nibble of the Stilton. However, the Stilton was too cold and had not as much flavour as I would have wished for; Nicky did not charge me for this.
The total bill, which included a good bottle of Chianti Reserva and several liqueurs, came to £80 before service.
Overall Opinion
Good quality food, served in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. I am happy to recommend Mama Angela, we will go again.
Monday, December 08, 2003
Restaurant
Tennstopet
Dalagatan 50
102 32 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone:- 08 32 2518
Website www.tennstopet.se
Overview
Eva and I went to Tennstopet the other evening. Tennstopet is a pub (one of Stockholm’s oldest, dating back to the 19th century) and restaurant; both the pub and restaurant serve traditional Swedish cuisine.
Ambience
The pub is decorated with traditional pub memorabilia and tartan wall hangings. They also have an extensive range of whiskies on display, that should suit most tastes.
The restaurant is a little more formal; the tables are traditionally laid with white linen tablecloths, napkins and silver cutlery. The chairs are upholstered in red velvet. The room has a high ceiling with wooden beams and chandeliers. At one end of the restaurant is an enormous mirror, with an ornate gilded wooden frame.
The restaurant is intimate, and ideal for a romantic evening or a larger gathering. We dined in the restaurant.
Menu
The dishes are traditional Swedish cuisine; and include Skagens toast, herring, blini, beef Rydberg and a variety of game dishes.
In order to see the entire range of food on offer, you should ask for the Swedish menu; they seem to think that English speakers will not wish to try the more traditional dishes, and so exclude them from the English menu. However, don’t let this put you off; the staff will be happy to explain each of the dishes on the Swedish menu.
Service
The welcome from all the staff is warm and friendly. Our coats were taken at the door by the smartly suited doorman. The restaurant staff are friendly, efficient and helpful; they are happy to explain the more traditional dishes.
By way of a contras to the normal bread rolls, you are given a basket of Swedish bread and crisp bread. This, in addition to a plate of butter, is accompanied by a bowl of rich creamy blue cheese; with a flavour akin to Stilton. I would recommend that you resist the temptation to overindulge, as this will seriously ruin your appetite. I had to exert an awful lot of willpower not to take more than a few spoonfuls of the delicious cheese.
Food
I started with Skagens toast; a combination of prawns and red caviar in a rich mayonnaise, served on a slice of toast. The taste was superb, and the dish generous in size. If you want to prepare this dish for yourself, see the recipe in my book “Accountants Can Cook”.
I chose fried bacon with onion sauce for my main dish. This consisted of generous slices of thick cut fatty bacon; fried and served with a white, creamy onion sauce. This was accompanied by plain boiled potatoes. I was delighted with this dish, it was “unctuous” in its richness, texture and flavour.
Eva started with the potato rosti and caviar, served with red onions. The potatoes were crispy and tasty; and combined well with the caviar. She thoroughly enjoyed it.
Eva chose the Viltwallenbergare for her main course. This was a large meatball made with a combination of moose, deer and veal. This was served with a wild mushroom sauce, accompanied by mashed potatoes and lingon berries.
The texture of the meatball was smooth and creamy, the flavour was very rich and gamey. The mashed potatoes, equally rich and smooth, complimented the meal.
Eva was delighted, and filled, by her choice.
The meal, which included a bottle of Pouilly Fume, cocktails and liqueurs, came to 1491SEK before tip.
Overall Opinion
Tennstopet is a splendid establishment, definitely in my top ten. Make sure you pay them a visit when you are in Stockholm.
Tennstopet
Dalagatan 50
102 32 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone:- 08 32 2518
Website www.tennstopet.se
Overview
Eva and I went to Tennstopet the other evening. Tennstopet is a pub (one of Stockholm’s oldest, dating back to the 19th century) and restaurant; both the pub and restaurant serve traditional Swedish cuisine.
Ambience
The pub is decorated with traditional pub memorabilia and tartan wall hangings. They also have an extensive range of whiskies on display, that should suit most tastes.
The restaurant is a little more formal; the tables are traditionally laid with white linen tablecloths, napkins and silver cutlery. The chairs are upholstered in red velvet. The room has a high ceiling with wooden beams and chandeliers. At one end of the restaurant is an enormous mirror, with an ornate gilded wooden frame.
The restaurant is intimate, and ideal for a romantic evening or a larger gathering. We dined in the restaurant.
Menu
The dishes are traditional Swedish cuisine; and include Skagens toast, herring, blini, beef Rydberg and a variety of game dishes.
In order to see the entire range of food on offer, you should ask for the Swedish menu; they seem to think that English speakers will not wish to try the more traditional dishes, and so exclude them from the English menu. However, don’t let this put you off; the staff will be happy to explain each of the dishes on the Swedish menu.
Service
The welcome from all the staff is warm and friendly. Our coats were taken at the door by the smartly suited doorman. The restaurant staff are friendly, efficient and helpful; they are happy to explain the more traditional dishes.
By way of a contras to the normal bread rolls, you are given a basket of Swedish bread and crisp bread. This, in addition to a plate of butter, is accompanied by a bowl of rich creamy blue cheese; with a flavour akin to Stilton. I would recommend that you resist the temptation to overindulge, as this will seriously ruin your appetite. I had to exert an awful lot of willpower not to take more than a few spoonfuls of the delicious cheese.
Food
I started with Skagens toast; a combination of prawns and red caviar in a rich mayonnaise, served on a slice of toast. The taste was superb, and the dish generous in size. If you want to prepare this dish for yourself, see the recipe in my book “Accountants Can Cook”.
I chose fried bacon with onion sauce for my main dish. This consisted of generous slices of thick cut fatty bacon; fried and served with a white, creamy onion sauce. This was accompanied by plain boiled potatoes. I was delighted with this dish, it was “unctuous” in its richness, texture and flavour.
Eva started with the potato rosti and caviar, served with red onions. The potatoes were crispy and tasty; and combined well with the caviar. She thoroughly enjoyed it.
Eva chose the Viltwallenbergare for her main course. This was a large meatball made with a combination of moose, deer and veal. This was served with a wild mushroom sauce, accompanied by mashed potatoes and lingon berries.
The texture of the meatball was smooth and creamy, the flavour was very rich and gamey. The mashed potatoes, equally rich and smooth, complimented the meal.
Eva was delighted, and filled, by her choice.
The meal, which included a bottle of Pouilly Fume, cocktails and liqueurs, came to 1491SEK before tip.
Overall Opinion
Tennstopet is a splendid establishment, definitely in my top ten. Make sure you pay them a visit when you are in Stockholm.
Restaurant
Capri
Nybrogatan 15
114 39 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone:- 08 662 3132
Website www.capri.aos.se
Overview
I found myself dining out in Stockholm with six charming Scandinavian ladies the other night. We went to the Capri, an Italian restaurant in central Stockholm; which is Stockholm’s oldest Italian restaurant.
Ambience
Capri is a large, bustling Italian restaurant. The interior design resembles a grotto hewn out of the inside of a cave. The walls are painted deep red, the tables are laid with check cloths and the atmosphere is cosy and intimate.
Menu
The menu offers an extensive array of pasta, meat, pizza and fish dishes.
House specialities are displayed on blackboards around the room.
Service
The staff are friendly and accommodating. Guests are offered a free pre dinner Campari, whilst perusing the menu.
In addition to a long, hot sliced loaf we were also given a large bowl of iceberg lettuce; which had been drizzled with olive oil, as an appetiser.
Food
I was the only one to have a starter. I chose the spinach lasagne. I have no hesitation in saying that this is one of the best lasagnes that I have ever had. It was creamy, succulent and flavoursome; absolutely unctuous. Don’t take my word for it though; my six dining companions, all of whom had a nibble, would also agree.
I chose the pollo diavola with sauté potatoes for my main course. This was a spicy “spatchcocked” poussin, cooked with chillies and tabasco. It was juicy and piquant, very enjoyable.
My companions had a variety of dishes, including; lamb cutlets, penne, grilled salmon and pizza quatro.
All professed themselves to be happy with the quality, taste and presentation of their dishes.
The meal, which included a bottle of Chianti, Pinot Grigio and numerous Irish coffees, came to 2100SEK including tip.
Overall Opinion
We all had a great time, and have marked this as a “must visit again” venue. Make sure you pay them a visit.
Capri
Nybrogatan 15
114 39 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone:- 08 662 3132
Website www.capri.aos.se
Overview
I found myself dining out in Stockholm with six charming Scandinavian ladies the other night. We went to the Capri, an Italian restaurant in central Stockholm; which is Stockholm’s oldest Italian restaurant.
Ambience
Capri is a large, bustling Italian restaurant. The interior design resembles a grotto hewn out of the inside of a cave. The walls are painted deep red, the tables are laid with check cloths and the atmosphere is cosy and intimate.
Menu
The menu offers an extensive array of pasta, meat, pizza and fish dishes.
House specialities are displayed on blackboards around the room.
Service
The staff are friendly and accommodating. Guests are offered a free pre dinner Campari, whilst perusing the menu.
In addition to a long, hot sliced loaf we were also given a large bowl of iceberg lettuce; which had been drizzled with olive oil, as an appetiser.
Food
I was the only one to have a starter. I chose the spinach lasagne. I have no hesitation in saying that this is one of the best lasagnes that I have ever had. It was creamy, succulent and flavoursome; absolutely unctuous. Don’t take my word for it though; my six dining companions, all of whom had a nibble, would also agree.
I chose the pollo diavola with sauté potatoes for my main course. This was a spicy “spatchcocked” poussin, cooked with chillies and tabasco. It was juicy and piquant, very enjoyable.
My companions had a variety of dishes, including; lamb cutlets, penne, grilled salmon and pizza quatro.
All professed themselves to be happy with the quality, taste and presentation of their dishes.
The meal, which included a bottle of Chianti, Pinot Grigio and numerous Irish coffees, came to 2100SEK including tip.
Overall Opinion
We all had a great time, and have marked this as a “must visit again” venue. Make sure you pay them a visit.
The Hard Rock Café
Sveav. 75
113 50 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone:- 08 545 49400
Website www.hardrock.se
Overview
Eva and I found ourselves out rather late in Stockholm the other evening. As many of the restaurants were closing we went to the Hard Rock Café, which stays open late. Hard Rock Café is an American themed bar and restaurant, serving steaks, burgers and assorted American cuisine.
Ambience
Hard Rock Café is a lively, brash and cheerful American themed bar and restaurant. Everywhere you look there are TV monitors playing rock videos at a boisterous volume. You cannot escape the omnipresent video, even in the urinals; they have miniature screens built in at eye-level.
Those of you wishing to have a souvenir of the Hard Rock Café can buy T shirts and assorted apparel from the shop, conveniently situated near the door.
Menu
The menu offers a good selection of burgers, chicken and steak dishes. Starters include platters of baked potatoes, fajitas or combos for people to share.
They have a list of interestingly titled cocktails such as “Slippery Nipple” and “Purple Hooters”.
Service
The staff, from the doorman through to manager and waitresses, were all very welcoming and friendly. We were promptly seated, and menus and drinks brought instantaneously.
The service was very efficient, and when I asked for two fried eggs (not on the menu) to be served with my steak, the order was readily accepted. I was even asked if I wanted them sunny side up. Top marks!
Food
We started with the platter of baked potato skins to share. This consisted of eight skins, generously filled with potato, cheese and bacon. They were topped off with chopped spring onions and a sour cream dip on the side.
The skins were very tasty. However, they could have been a little warmer.
I chose the 12oz New York strip (with two fried eggs) for my main course. This came with a choice of baked potatoes, fries or sauté potatoes. I opted for the fries.
The steak was tender, and had been cooked rare to my specification. Rather incongruously it came with cauliflower florets as a vegetable accompaniment, they were a little underdone.
That being said, I cleared my plate and sated the “inner man”.
Eva had a cheeseburger with fries for her main course. This was definitely a cut above the sad soggy specimens served by high street fast food outlets. It had been freshly made, and was served “open topped” rather than squeezed together between the two halves of the bun. Eva was pleased with her choice.
The meal, which included cocktails, a bottle of Chardonnay and Irish coffees, came to around 1200SEK.
Overall Opinion
We enjoyed the meal and the atmosphere of the restaurant. Maybe not a place for an intimate evening. However, worth visiting if you are out late one night in Stockholm and are feeling hungry.
Sveav. 75
113 50 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone:- 08 545 49400
Website www.hardrock.se
Overview
Eva and I found ourselves out rather late in Stockholm the other evening. As many of the restaurants were closing we went to the Hard Rock Café, which stays open late. Hard Rock Café is an American themed bar and restaurant, serving steaks, burgers and assorted American cuisine.
Ambience
Hard Rock Café is a lively, brash and cheerful American themed bar and restaurant. Everywhere you look there are TV monitors playing rock videos at a boisterous volume. You cannot escape the omnipresent video, even in the urinals; they have miniature screens built in at eye-level.
Those of you wishing to have a souvenir of the Hard Rock Café can buy T shirts and assorted apparel from the shop, conveniently situated near the door.
Menu
The menu offers a good selection of burgers, chicken and steak dishes. Starters include platters of baked potatoes, fajitas or combos for people to share.
They have a list of interestingly titled cocktails such as “Slippery Nipple” and “Purple Hooters”.
Service
The staff, from the doorman through to manager and waitresses, were all very welcoming and friendly. We were promptly seated, and menus and drinks brought instantaneously.
The service was very efficient, and when I asked for two fried eggs (not on the menu) to be served with my steak, the order was readily accepted. I was even asked if I wanted them sunny side up. Top marks!
Food
We started with the platter of baked potato skins to share. This consisted of eight skins, generously filled with potato, cheese and bacon. They were topped off with chopped spring onions and a sour cream dip on the side.
The skins were very tasty. However, they could have been a little warmer.
I chose the 12oz New York strip (with two fried eggs) for my main course. This came with a choice of baked potatoes, fries or sauté potatoes. I opted for the fries.
The steak was tender, and had been cooked rare to my specification. Rather incongruously it came with cauliflower florets as a vegetable accompaniment, they were a little underdone.
That being said, I cleared my plate and sated the “inner man”.
Eva had a cheeseburger with fries for her main course. This was definitely a cut above the sad soggy specimens served by high street fast food outlets. It had been freshly made, and was served “open topped” rather than squeezed together between the two halves of the bun. Eva was pleased with her choice.
The meal, which included cocktails, a bottle of Chardonnay and Irish coffees, came to around 1200SEK.
Overall Opinion
We enjoyed the meal and the atmosphere of the restaurant. Maybe not a place for an intimate evening. However, worth visiting if you are out late one night in Stockholm and are feeling hungry.
Monday, November 03, 2003
Restaurant
The Gay Hussar
2 Greek Street
London
W1D 4NB
Phone:- 0207 437 0973
Overview
Eva and I went to The Gay Hussar, a Hungarian restaurant, in Soho on Saturday.
Ambience
This is a friendly, welcoming, restaurant; tucked away at the corner of Greek Street. It is situated in the bustling and eclectic heart of Soho. The restaurant has several floors, comprising public and private dining rooms. The ground floor is decorated with sketches of the politicians (eg Robin Cook) who dine there regularly.
Our table was on the next floor in a slightly smaller, but cosy, room. The room had dark wood panelling, and red flock wallpaper. The tables were laid with starched white linen and silver cutlery.
I would note that the restaurant was very busy, and you are advised to make a reservation 48 hours in advance.
Menu
The menu has a good selection of Hungarian dishes including; cherry soup, marinated herring, salami, stuffed peppers, goose, goulash, dumplings and pancakes.
Service
The service was very friendly and solicitous. When we were waiting for our taxi at the end of the evening, we sat in the restaurant downstairs and had a drink; there was no unseemly haste to push us out of the door, even though the restaurant was closing.
Food
I started with the smoked Hungarian sausage, which was served with fresh horseradish sauce and a small salad. This was very tasty, and made an ideal starter.
I chose the crispy roast duck for my main course. This was served with red cabbage, Hungarian potatoes and apple sauce. The duck was crispy and succulent, not greasy or overcooked. I was very happy with my choice.
Eva started with the beef goulash soup. This was a splendid spicy, piquant dish, containing hearty chunks of beef and potatoes. A side basket of heavy dark bread accompanied this dish; this maked it almost a meal in itself.
Eva chose the veal goulash pancake for her main course. The pancake was quite large and had been boiled; the filling was rich and creamy. The dish was served with boiled potatoes and grilled peppers.
The meal, which included a robust and hearty bottle of Bull’s Blood and several Hungarian liqueurs, came to £109 including service.
Overall Opinion
We both thoroughly enjoyed our evening and our meal, and will definitely be returning.
The Gay Hussar
2 Greek Street
London
W1D 4NB
Phone:- 0207 437 0973
Overview
Eva and I went to The Gay Hussar, a Hungarian restaurant, in Soho on Saturday.
Ambience
This is a friendly, welcoming, restaurant; tucked away at the corner of Greek Street. It is situated in the bustling and eclectic heart of Soho. The restaurant has several floors, comprising public and private dining rooms. The ground floor is decorated with sketches of the politicians (eg Robin Cook) who dine there regularly.
Our table was on the next floor in a slightly smaller, but cosy, room. The room had dark wood panelling, and red flock wallpaper. The tables were laid with starched white linen and silver cutlery.
I would note that the restaurant was very busy, and you are advised to make a reservation 48 hours in advance.
Menu
The menu has a good selection of Hungarian dishes including; cherry soup, marinated herring, salami, stuffed peppers, goose, goulash, dumplings and pancakes.
Service
The service was very friendly and solicitous. When we were waiting for our taxi at the end of the evening, we sat in the restaurant downstairs and had a drink; there was no unseemly haste to push us out of the door, even though the restaurant was closing.
Food
I started with the smoked Hungarian sausage, which was served with fresh horseradish sauce and a small salad. This was very tasty, and made an ideal starter.
I chose the crispy roast duck for my main course. This was served with red cabbage, Hungarian potatoes and apple sauce. The duck was crispy and succulent, not greasy or overcooked. I was very happy with my choice.
Eva started with the beef goulash soup. This was a splendid spicy, piquant dish, containing hearty chunks of beef and potatoes. A side basket of heavy dark bread accompanied this dish; this maked it almost a meal in itself.
Eva chose the veal goulash pancake for her main course. The pancake was quite large and had been boiled; the filling was rich and creamy. The dish was served with boiled potatoes and grilled peppers.
The meal, which included a robust and hearty bottle of Bull’s Blood and several Hungarian liqueurs, came to £109 including service.
Overall Opinion
We both thoroughly enjoyed our evening and our meal, and will definitely be returning.
Thursday, October 16, 2003
Restaurant
Leopardi
Riddargatan 9
114 51 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone:- 08 660 7403
Overview
Eva and I took pot luck one evening when we were in Stockholm; and went to Leopardi, an Italian restaurant in central Stockholm.
Ambience
Leopardi is a warm and cosy restaurant, with a lively atmosphere. There is a bar in the middle of the room. The walls are painted red and white, and there is a tiled floor. The tables are laid with pink table cloths. Each table has a flower in a small vase, and a basket of bread sticks.
Menu
The menu has a good variety of Italian pasta dishes plus other dishes including; bruschetta, minestrone, calves liver, lamb medallions, and saltimbocca.
Service
The service was friendly and very prompt. There is no problem with speaking English here, should your Swedish or Italian not be quite up to the mark.
Food
I started with the carbonara, this was a very generous portion of spaghetti and bacon in a rich creamy sauce. This, for lesser appetites, would make a meal in itself.
I chose the pan fried pork escalope in a cream and sage sauce for my main course. The flavours were very well balanced, the pork was tender and not overcooked. The dish came with sauté potatoes, which were cooked to perfection.
Eva started with the deep fried camembert served with berries. This was surprisingly sweet, but very delicious and a good way to start the meal.
Eva’s main course was penne with chicken and chillies; she was very pleased with this dish. There was a generous portion of chicken, and the chillies added a piquant flavour; however, this did not overpower it.
The meal, which included a bottle of Mateus, came to 754SEK.
Overall Opinion
In my opinion, Leopardi is worth popping into if you are in central Stockholm and feel like a good value Italian meal.
Leopardi
Riddargatan 9
114 51 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone:- 08 660 7403
Overview
Eva and I took pot luck one evening when we were in Stockholm; and went to Leopardi, an Italian restaurant in central Stockholm.
Ambience
Leopardi is a warm and cosy restaurant, with a lively atmosphere. There is a bar in the middle of the room. The walls are painted red and white, and there is a tiled floor. The tables are laid with pink table cloths. Each table has a flower in a small vase, and a basket of bread sticks.
Menu
The menu has a good variety of Italian pasta dishes plus other dishes including; bruschetta, minestrone, calves liver, lamb medallions, and saltimbocca.
Service
The service was friendly and very prompt. There is no problem with speaking English here, should your Swedish or Italian not be quite up to the mark.
Food
I started with the carbonara, this was a very generous portion of spaghetti and bacon in a rich creamy sauce. This, for lesser appetites, would make a meal in itself.
I chose the pan fried pork escalope in a cream and sage sauce for my main course. The flavours were very well balanced, the pork was tender and not overcooked. The dish came with sauté potatoes, which were cooked to perfection.
Eva started with the deep fried camembert served with berries. This was surprisingly sweet, but very delicious and a good way to start the meal.
Eva’s main course was penne with chicken and chillies; she was very pleased with this dish. There was a generous portion of chicken, and the chillies added a piquant flavour; however, this did not overpower it.
The meal, which included a bottle of Mateus, came to 754SEK.
Overall Opinion
In my opinion, Leopardi is worth popping into if you are in central Stockholm and feel like a good value Italian meal.
Sunday, July 13, 2003
Restaurant
The Old Bell
High Street
Old Oxted
Surrey
Phone:- 01883 712181
Website www.theoldbell-oxted.co.uk
Overview
It was a sunny, hot Saturday; and so Eva and I decided to take a trip out of town to Old Oxted, a village, only 20 minutes train ride away from Croydon.
I haven’t been to Oxted since my childhood, so we took pot luck with regard to our dining needs. Having visited a couple of hostelries, we were delighted to stumble across The Old Bell; a 15th century pub that serves traditional and modern English cuisine.
Ambience
The pub is a traditional timber framed building dating back to the 15th century. Low ceilings with timber beams and columns are decorated with the usual knickknacks (hops, horse brasses, photos etc) accumulated over the centuries of use.
The restaurant and bar meld into one, so you can combine a trip to the pub with a meal (every Englishman’s dream!).
The menus are on chalkboards dotted around the walls.
There is a smoking and non smoking area, plus a garden. We were offered a choice of tables, and took one by the window.
The chairs were old fashioned highback “cottage” style, and were exceptionally comfortable.
Menu
The menu offers a staggering array of dishes including; pate, smoked salmon parcels, baked goat’s cheese, pies, fish, spinach and Roquefort tart, steaks, ham and eggs and vegetarian dishes.
I would venture one small suggestion; whilst the use of chalkboards is fine for specials, we found it to be a little inconvenient placing the entire menu on it. I would suggest that the “standard dishes” are detailed on menus (even if only photocopies) placed on the tables.
Service
We were promptly and warmly greeted by one of the staff when we arrived, and were shown to a table. Once seated, the ordering system was explained to us.
You choose from the menus on the walls, then place your order at the bar; quoting the number attached to the candle stick on your table.
After that the service is as in any other restaurant; ie further orders for drinks, wine, desserts etc can be placed with a member of staff. All of whom we found to be cheerful and efficient.
Food
I chose the warm chicken liver and bacon salad as a starter. This was very good, there was a generous portion of both liver and bacon tossed with a green salad and croutons. The liver was not overcooked, and was complemented by the bacon.
I chose the mixed grill for my main course, with a couple of fried eggs as an extra. The grill included; a lamb’s kidney, calves liver, a double lamb loin chop, a good sized portion of steak, a sausage and a slice of gammon. This was served with home-made chips.
The grill was professionally cooked, not burnt or dry. The meat was of good quality, although parts of the steak were a little chewy. A hearty meal for a hearty appetite!
Eva started with the smoked salmon parcel stuffed with crab. This was served with cherry tomatoes and beetroot. It was a good sized portion, the chef had not stinted on the crab stuffing. The combination of flavours was first class, and made an ideal starter.
Eva chose breaded pork with apple squares in a sage sauce for her main course. The combination of flavours was mouth-watering. The sauce was very “sagey” and was complemented by the flavour, and texture, of the cooked apple cubes; which in turn enhanced the flavour of the lean, tender pieces of pork in breadcrumbs. The pork had been cooked to a golden brown colour.
The dish came with new potatoes, cabbage, cauliflower, carrots and courgettes; all cooked to perfection.
The bill, which included; a bottle of Chablis, two Irish coffees and brandy, came to £60 before service.
Overall Opinion
We thoroughly enjoyed our meal, and feel that it was exceptionally good value. Well worth a trip to Old Oxted. I recommend that you do the same.
The Old Bell
High Street
Old Oxted
Surrey
Phone:- 01883 712181
Website www.theoldbell-oxted.co.uk
Overview
It was a sunny, hot Saturday; and so Eva and I decided to take a trip out of town to Old Oxted, a village, only 20 minutes train ride away from Croydon.
I haven’t been to Oxted since my childhood, so we took pot luck with regard to our dining needs. Having visited a couple of hostelries, we were delighted to stumble across The Old Bell; a 15th century pub that serves traditional and modern English cuisine.
Ambience
The pub is a traditional timber framed building dating back to the 15th century. Low ceilings with timber beams and columns are decorated with the usual knickknacks (hops, horse brasses, photos etc) accumulated over the centuries of use.
The restaurant and bar meld into one, so you can combine a trip to the pub with a meal (every Englishman’s dream!).
The menus are on chalkboards dotted around the walls.
There is a smoking and non smoking area, plus a garden. We were offered a choice of tables, and took one by the window.
The chairs were old fashioned highback “cottage” style, and were exceptionally comfortable.
Menu
The menu offers a staggering array of dishes including; pate, smoked salmon parcels, baked goat’s cheese, pies, fish, spinach and Roquefort tart, steaks, ham and eggs and vegetarian dishes.
I would venture one small suggestion; whilst the use of chalkboards is fine for specials, we found it to be a little inconvenient placing the entire menu on it. I would suggest that the “standard dishes” are detailed on menus (even if only photocopies) placed on the tables.
Service
We were promptly and warmly greeted by one of the staff when we arrived, and were shown to a table. Once seated, the ordering system was explained to us.
You choose from the menus on the walls, then place your order at the bar; quoting the number attached to the candle stick on your table.
After that the service is as in any other restaurant; ie further orders for drinks, wine, desserts etc can be placed with a member of staff. All of whom we found to be cheerful and efficient.
Food
I chose the warm chicken liver and bacon salad as a starter. This was very good, there was a generous portion of both liver and bacon tossed with a green salad and croutons. The liver was not overcooked, and was complemented by the bacon.
I chose the mixed grill for my main course, with a couple of fried eggs as an extra. The grill included; a lamb’s kidney, calves liver, a double lamb loin chop, a good sized portion of steak, a sausage and a slice of gammon. This was served with home-made chips.
The grill was professionally cooked, not burnt or dry. The meat was of good quality, although parts of the steak were a little chewy. A hearty meal for a hearty appetite!
Eva started with the smoked salmon parcel stuffed with crab. This was served with cherry tomatoes and beetroot. It was a good sized portion, the chef had not stinted on the crab stuffing. The combination of flavours was first class, and made an ideal starter.
Eva chose breaded pork with apple squares in a sage sauce for her main course. The combination of flavours was mouth-watering. The sauce was very “sagey” and was complemented by the flavour, and texture, of the cooked apple cubes; which in turn enhanced the flavour of the lean, tender pieces of pork in breadcrumbs. The pork had been cooked to a golden brown colour.
The dish came with new potatoes, cabbage, cauliflower, carrots and courgettes; all cooked to perfection.
The bill, which included; a bottle of Chablis, two Irish coffees and brandy, came to £60 before service.
Overall Opinion
We thoroughly enjoyed our meal, and feel that it was exceptionally good value. Well worth a trip to Old Oxted. I recommend that you do the same.
Friday, July 11, 2003
Restaurant
Donatello
1 Brighton Place
The Lanes
Brighton
Phone:- 01273 775477
Website www.donatello.co.uk
Overview
Eva and I spent a couple of days in Brighton; and, feeling in the mood for Italian, dropped into Donatello one evening.
Ambience
Donatello is a large restaurant and offers; a smoking area, a non smoking area, a large bar, upstairs function rooms and outside seating for those that feel brave enough to face the uncertainty of the British weather.
The restaurant is bright and cheerful; some of the walls are painted red, others green and at the far end of the smoking area you can admire your reflection in the wall sized mirror. The stairway up to the function rooms is adorned with photos of celebrities, including Tony Blair, who have dined in the restaurant.
Menu
The menu offers a good range of Italian dishes including a variety of; pasta, pizzas, fish, steaks and veal.
Service
The service is very attentive, friendly and efficient. Although the restaurant is large, and was busy when we were there, there was a large enough complement of staff on duty to ensure that that customers’ needs were efficiently attended to.
Food
I started with the lasagne, which was rich and creamy. The sauce was a well balanced blend of tomatoes and cheese, which did not overpower the meat and spinach filled pasta.
I chose steak, in a green pepper sauce, for my main course. This was first class. The sirloin was cooked rare, as requested, and was exceptionally succulent and tender. The piquant sauce complemented the meat, and did not overpower it. The dish was served with a good sized portion of fries, carrots and courgettes. I was very happy with my choice.
Eva opted for pizza, and chose one with a topping that included; Chorizo, artichokes, prawns and peppers. It had been freshly prepared, and the dough had a light not “claggy” texture. She enjoyed it, but felt that it would have benefited from a more generous tomato and cheese base.
The total bill, which included; pre dinner drinks a bottle of Pinot Grigio, brandy and Irish coffee, came to £61 including service.
Overall Opinion
We enjoyed our meal, and will be pleased to visit again when we have the opportunity.
Donatello
1 Brighton Place
The Lanes
Brighton
Phone:- 01273 775477
Website www.donatello.co.uk
Overview
Eva and I spent a couple of days in Brighton; and, feeling in the mood for Italian, dropped into Donatello one evening.
Ambience
Donatello is a large restaurant and offers; a smoking area, a non smoking area, a large bar, upstairs function rooms and outside seating for those that feel brave enough to face the uncertainty of the British weather.
The restaurant is bright and cheerful; some of the walls are painted red, others green and at the far end of the smoking area you can admire your reflection in the wall sized mirror. The stairway up to the function rooms is adorned with photos of celebrities, including Tony Blair, who have dined in the restaurant.
Menu
The menu offers a good range of Italian dishes including a variety of; pasta, pizzas, fish, steaks and veal.
Service
The service is very attentive, friendly and efficient. Although the restaurant is large, and was busy when we were there, there was a large enough complement of staff on duty to ensure that that customers’ needs were efficiently attended to.
Food
I started with the lasagne, which was rich and creamy. The sauce was a well balanced blend of tomatoes and cheese, which did not overpower the meat and spinach filled pasta.
I chose steak, in a green pepper sauce, for my main course. This was first class. The sirloin was cooked rare, as requested, and was exceptionally succulent and tender. The piquant sauce complemented the meat, and did not overpower it. The dish was served with a good sized portion of fries, carrots and courgettes. I was very happy with my choice.
Eva opted for pizza, and chose one with a topping that included; Chorizo, artichokes, prawns and peppers. It had been freshly prepared, and the dough had a light not “claggy” texture. She enjoyed it, but felt that it would have benefited from a more generous tomato and cheese base.
The total bill, which included; pre dinner drinks a bottle of Pinot Grigio, brandy and Irish coffee, came to £61 including service.
Overall Opinion
We enjoyed our meal, and will be pleased to visit again when we have the opportunity.
Restaurant
Coach House
59 Middle Street
Brighton
Phone:- 01273 719000
Website www.coachhousebrighton.com
Overview
Eva and I had a leisurely lunch in the courtyard of The Coach House, a bar and restaurant five minutes away from the seafront in Brighton.
Ambience
The Coach House is a bright and breezy restaurant and bar. It has a small courtyard in the front, and being a sunny day we “pitched our tent” there.
Menu
The menu offers an extensive variety of dishes including; mussels, steaks, falafels, lamb noisettes and fish cakes.
Service
The service was relaxed, friendly and efficient. The waiter was honest enough to guide my initial choice of starter (pate), to what he felt to be the more reliable soup of the day.
Food
I started with the carrot and coriander soup. The flavour being more of coriander than carrot, made it a refreshing change to those luminous orange creations served in other establishments. It came with a swirl of cream, and a good sized portion of freshly baked bread.
I chose sirloin steak for my main course. This came with chunky home made chips, cherry tomatoes and mushrooms. I asked for two fried eggs to top it off, no raised eyebrow to that request. The steak was cooked to perfection, and was exceptionally tender and flavoursome.
Eva had a hearty bowl of mussels in a white wine, cream and garlic sauce. This was served with a mountain of freshly baked bread. The dish was absolutely first class, full of flavour and very filling.
The meal, which included two bottles of Pinto Grigio and an Irish coffee, came to £58 including service.
Overall Opinion
Definitely worth visiting should you be strolling through the streets of Brighton on a sunny day. We will go there again when we are in town.
Coach House
59 Middle Street
Brighton
Phone:- 01273 719000
Website www.coachhousebrighton.com
Overview
Eva and I had a leisurely lunch in the courtyard of The Coach House, a bar and restaurant five minutes away from the seafront in Brighton.
Ambience
The Coach House is a bright and breezy restaurant and bar. It has a small courtyard in the front, and being a sunny day we “pitched our tent” there.
Menu
The menu offers an extensive variety of dishes including; mussels, steaks, falafels, lamb noisettes and fish cakes.
Service
The service was relaxed, friendly and efficient. The waiter was honest enough to guide my initial choice of starter (pate), to what he felt to be the more reliable soup of the day.
Food
I started with the carrot and coriander soup. The flavour being more of coriander than carrot, made it a refreshing change to those luminous orange creations served in other establishments. It came with a swirl of cream, and a good sized portion of freshly baked bread.
I chose sirloin steak for my main course. This came with chunky home made chips, cherry tomatoes and mushrooms. I asked for two fried eggs to top it off, no raised eyebrow to that request. The steak was cooked to perfection, and was exceptionally tender and flavoursome.
Eva had a hearty bowl of mussels in a white wine, cream and garlic sauce. This was served with a mountain of freshly baked bread. The dish was absolutely first class, full of flavour and very filling.
The meal, which included two bottles of Pinto Grigio and an Irish coffee, came to £58 including service.
Overall Opinion
Definitely worth visiting should you be strolling through the streets of Brighton on a sunny day. We will go there again when we are in town.
Tuesday, May 20, 2003
Restaurant
Källaren Bohemia
Tunnelgatan 1
11137 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone:- 08 21 53 10
Website www.bohemia.nu
Overview
Bohemia was one of our favourite restaurants when we lived in Stockholm. It specialises in Central European food, and is situated near to where Olaf Palma (Sweden’s Prime Minister) was assassinated in 1986.
Eva, myself and Kajsa (one of Eva’s daughters) went there on Saturday evening.
Ambience
The restaurant is cosy, bright and unpretentious. The restaurant has a wooden beamed ceiling and white walls, a large tapestry adorns the furthest wall.
The restaurant has both traditional round tables in the centre of the room, and booths around the walls. All the tables are laid with linen cloths and napkins, and decorated with fresh flowers.
We were warmly greeted by the owner, who remembered us despite the fact it had been over two years since we had been there.
Menu
The menu offers an impressive selection of dishes including; steak tartar, Wiener Schnitzel, chicken Kiev, goulash and foie gras. Should there not be something to your taste, the chef will try to accommodate you.
Service
The service was very cheerful and attentive. Unlike many restaurants in Stockholm, Bohemia does not try to rush you out of the door when you have finished; and we lingered for while with our liqueurs, finally departing at around 12:30.
Food
I started with the Fettuccine Alfredo, which was splendid. The sauce was rich and creamy, and was complemented by the mushrooms and perfectly cooked fettuccine.
I chose Holstein Schnitzel for my main course. This was an absolutely enormous piece of veal, which was coated in breadcrumbs and pan fried; served with two fried eggs and a side dish of sauté potatoes. Outstanding, a meal to die for!
Eva started with blinis and red caviar. The blinis were home-made, and were served with sour cream, red caviar and chopped red onion. Eva was delighted with her choice.
She chose the chicken Kiev as her main course, this was succulent, and oozed forth a very garlic infused melted buttered filling when the chicken was pierced. She thoroughly enjoyed it.
Kajsa, having already dined a few hours earlier, opted to have just an appetiser and desert. She chose the snails to start with. These were served in their shells in melted garlic butter, with a vast tray of toasted bread. They were succulent, plump, and very tasty.
She opted for ice cream with a fresh fruit salad for desert. This was exceptionally well presented, being placed on a large plate dusted with icing sugar; together with a sauce boat containing a rich, dark chocolate sauce. The chef has a creative mind, and an eye for detail; full marks.
The meal, which included two bottles of Chablis and various cocktails and liqueurs, came to SEK2213 before service.
Overall Opinion
I make no exaggeration in saying that, in my opinion, Bohemia is one of the best restaurants in Stockholm. I cannot recommend it too highly.
Källaren Bohemia
Tunnelgatan 1
11137 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone:- 08 21 53 10
Website www.bohemia.nu
Overview
Bohemia was one of our favourite restaurants when we lived in Stockholm. It specialises in Central European food, and is situated near to where Olaf Palma (Sweden’s Prime Minister) was assassinated in 1986.
Eva, myself and Kajsa (one of Eva’s daughters) went there on Saturday evening.
Ambience
The restaurant is cosy, bright and unpretentious. The restaurant has a wooden beamed ceiling and white walls, a large tapestry adorns the furthest wall.
The restaurant has both traditional round tables in the centre of the room, and booths around the walls. All the tables are laid with linen cloths and napkins, and decorated with fresh flowers.
We were warmly greeted by the owner, who remembered us despite the fact it had been over two years since we had been there.
Menu
The menu offers an impressive selection of dishes including; steak tartar, Wiener Schnitzel, chicken Kiev, goulash and foie gras. Should there not be something to your taste, the chef will try to accommodate you.
Service
The service was very cheerful and attentive. Unlike many restaurants in Stockholm, Bohemia does not try to rush you out of the door when you have finished; and we lingered for while with our liqueurs, finally departing at around 12:30.
Food
I started with the Fettuccine Alfredo, which was splendid. The sauce was rich and creamy, and was complemented by the mushrooms and perfectly cooked fettuccine.
I chose Holstein Schnitzel for my main course. This was an absolutely enormous piece of veal, which was coated in breadcrumbs and pan fried; served with two fried eggs and a side dish of sauté potatoes. Outstanding, a meal to die for!
Eva started with blinis and red caviar. The blinis were home-made, and were served with sour cream, red caviar and chopped red onion. Eva was delighted with her choice.
She chose the chicken Kiev as her main course, this was succulent, and oozed forth a very garlic infused melted buttered filling when the chicken was pierced. She thoroughly enjoyed it.
Kajsa, having already dined a few hours earlier, opted to have just an appetiser and desert. She chose the snails to start with. These were served in their shells in melted garlic butter, with a vast tray of toasted bread. They were succulent, plump, and very tasty.
She opted for ice cream with a fresh fruit salad for desert. This was exceptionally well presented, being placed on a large plate dusted with icing sugar; together with a sauce boat containing a rich, dark chocolate sauce. The chef has a creative mind, and an eye for detail; full marks.
The meal, which included two bottles of Chablis and various cocktails and liqueurs, came to SEK2213 before service.
Overall Opinion
I make no exaggeration in saying that, in my opinion, Bohemia is one of the best restaurants in Stockholm. I cannot recommend it too highly.
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