Restaurant
O Sole Mio
7 Croxted Road
West Dulwich
London
Phone:- 0208 670 4444
Website www.osolemio.towp.com
Overview
Eva and I spent the afternoon in Dulwich, looking around my old school, and decided to pop into O Sole Mio for a meal at the end of the day.
It, as its name suggests, serves Italian food.
Ambience
The restaurant is cheerfully decorated with the walls painted sunflower yellow, a tiled floor, fake marble top tables and a large sun effect mirror.
Menu
The restaurant offers an a la carte Italian menu with traditional pasta, veal, chicken and steak dishes; together with blackboard specials such as sea bass.
Service
The service is efficient. We were offered a canapé of chopped tomato and garlic in olive oil on ciabattine. A nice gesture, I thought, until I saw the bill at the end which charged £1 for it; rather petty and annoying.
Food
I started with baked avocado and prawns in a béchamel sauce. This consisted of sliced avocado and prawns in a thin béchamel sauce. This tasted quite good. However, I personally prefer a thicker sauce; which gives the dish a firmer consistency in the mouth. My book, “Accountants Can Cook”, contains a recipe more akin to my preferences.
My main course was entrecote steak in a pepper sauce. This was served with boiled potatoes carrots and mange tout. I had requested that my steak be cooked blue. However, there was no evidence at all of any blood; so back it went. The second steak did not seem much better, and indeed was a strange grey colour on the outside. I was suspicious that it had been microwaved, but was assured that it had not been. I gave up, and accepted my fate, it was edible.
Eva started with a very large bowl of mussels in white wine. This was a good dish; the sauce, which had chopped chives in, had a decent piquant flavour but was not too salty. She was very happy with her choice.
Eva’s main course was an enormous bowl of spaghetti carbonara. This was cooked a little too al dente for both our tastes. However, that is a matter of personal preference; which we should have made clear when ordering. Eva, nonetheless, enjoyed it but the dish was so large that she could not finish it.
The meal, which included a bottle of Pinot Grigio, came to £47 including the £1 canapé!
Overall Opinion
On balance we would not go out of our way to go there again.
Thursday, February 27, 2003
Sunday, February 23, 2003
Belair House
Belair House
Gallery Road
Dulwich Village
London
Phone:- 0208 299 9788
Website www.belairhouse.co.uk
Overview
Belair House was built in 1785, it was bought by Gary Cady in 1996; who restored it and turned it into a bar and restaurant. It serves contemporary European food.
It comprises a bar, main restaurant, conservatory and outside dining area. The Georgian architectural features have been retained.
Eva and I went there last night for dinner.
Ambience
The house is situated in a beautifully maintained park off Gallery Road. The bar is spacious, the walls are painted in red and white. The floor is tiled, this combined with the modern background music makes it a little noisy.
The main restaurant was very busy. We sat in a semi circular part of the room, this part of the room was painted chocolate brown; overhead was a large candelabra. The main part of the dining room had a Georgian fireplace as a centrepiece. The tables were professionally laid with white tablecloths, the seating comfortable high back blue chairs.
The walls in both the bar and restaurant are decorated with original paintings, which are quite striking.
Eva would like me to mention that the ladies facilities were better than the ones she normally encounters in other restaurants, the cubicles painted in bright colours set against blue brickwork. These reminded her of an upmarket school lavatory.
Menu
The restaurant offers a set a la carte three course meal for £32. The dishes are imaginative and make use of locally grown herbs; they include pork belly, hake, pan fried sea bass, scallops, tournedos and saddle of lamb.
The wine list is extensive and offers wine from under £20 to £395.
Service
The service both in the bar and restaurant was friendly, attentive and efficient. We had a couple of pre dinner tequila sunrises in the bar, where we were able to peruse the menus and present our orders.
Despite the fact that the restaurant was full, our table was ready on time; and the niceties such as offering bread and water were not neglected.
Food
I started with a generous portion of the Foie Gras which was rich, smooth and surrounded by a grape and sauterne jelly. However, I was surprised that this was not served with toast or something similar such as oatmeal biscuits. I would recommend that this be added.
I chose the saddle of lamb for my main course. This was very good, the meat tender and succulent, served in a flavoursome jus with a mushroom pate. However, being a trencherman I was a little disappointed there were no potatoes served with the dish. Note to the chef, please add potatoes to your repertoire.
My dessert was ice tea sorbet, refreshing and an ideal compliment to the savoury flavours of the Foie Gras and lamb.
Eva started with crispy pork belly which was served with croutons and salad. This dish had a very strong salty flavour. Eva enjoyed it, however she feels that it would have benefited from an oil based dressing which should be served in a side dish.
Eva chose duck breast with apple sauce served with sarladaise potatoes and a stuffed cabbage leaf. The breast was tender, pink and succulent. The potato and cabbage complimented the meat. However, she felt that the portions of both cabbage and potato could have been a little more generous.
Eva chose mangoes served on a mixture of eggs and cream for her dessert. This was rich and creamy, and proved to be quite filling.
We finished the meal off with some with brandies.
The meal, which included a bottle of Pinot Grigio and pre/post dinner drinks, came to £156 including tip.
Overall Opinion
We enjoyed our visit to Belair House; it is, in my opinion, definitely worth visiting for a special occasion.
Gallery Road
Dulwich Village
London
Phone:- 0208 299 9788
Website www.belairhouse.co.uk
Overview
Belair House was built in 1785, it was bought by Gary Cady in 1996; who restored it and turned it into a bar and restaurant. It serves contemporary European food.
It comprises a bar, main restaurant, conservatory and outside dining area. The Georgian architectural features have been retained.
Eva and I went there last night for dinner.
Ambience
The house is situated in a beautifully maintained park off Gallery Road. The bar is spacious, the walls are painted in red and white. The floor is tiled, this combined with the modern background music makes it a little noisy.
The main restaurant was very busy. We sat in a semi circular part of the room, this part of the room was painted chocolate brown; overhead was a large candelabra. The main part of the dining room had a Georgian fireplace as a centrepiece. The tables were professionally laid with white tablecloths, the seating comfortable high back blue chairs.
The walls in both the bar and restaurant are decorated with original paintings, which are quite striking.
Eva would like me to mention that the ladies facilities were better than the ones she normally encounters in other restaurants, the cubicles painted in bright colours set against blue brickwork. These reminded her of an upmarket school lavatory.
Menu
The restaurant offers a set a la carte three course meal for £32. The dishes are imaginative and make use of locally grown herbs; they include pork belly, hake, pan fried sea bass, scallops, tournedos and saddle of lamb.
The wine list is extensive and offers wine from under £20 to £395.
Service
The service both in the bar and restaurant was friendly, attentive and efficient. We had a couple of pre dinner tequila sunrises in the bar, where we were able to peruse the menus and present our orders.
Despite the fact that the restaurant was full, our table was ready on time; and the niceties such as offering bread and water were not neglected.
Food
I started with a generous portion of the Foie Gras which was rich, smooth and surrounded by a grape and sauterne jelly. However, I was surprised that this was not served with toast or something similar such as oatmeal biscuits. I would recommend that this be added.
I chose the saddle of lamb for my main course. This was very good, the meat tender and succulent, served in a flavoursome jus with a mushroom pate. However, being a trencherman I was a little disappointed there were no potatoes served with the dish. Note to the chef, please add potatoes to your repertoire.
My dessert was ice tea sorbet, refreshing and an ideal compliment to the savoury flavours of the Foie Gras and lamb.
Eva started with crispy pork belly which was served with croutons and salad. This dish had a very strong salty flavour. Eva enjoyed it, however she feels that it would have benefited from an oil based dressing which should be served in a side dish.
Eva chose duck breast with apple sauce served with sarladaise potatoes and a stuffed cabbage leaf. The breast was tender, pink and succulent. The potato and cabbage complimented the meat. However, she felt that the portions of both cabbage and potato could have been a little more generous.
Eva chose mangoes served on a mixture of eggs and cream for her dessert. This was rich and creamy, and proved to be quite filling.
We finished the meal off with some with brandies.
The meal, which included a bottle of Pinot Grigio and pre/post dinner drinks, came to £156 including tip.
Overall Opinion
We enjoyed our visit to Belair House; it is, in my opinion, definitely worth visiting for a special occasion.
Tuesday, February 18, 2003
Restaurant
Andalucia
Döbelnsgatan 79
Stockholm
Sweden
Phone:- 08 15 6660
Website www.andalucia.se
Overview
Eva and I went to Andalucia, a Spanish restaurant in Stockholm, for Valentine’s day.
Ambience
Andalucia is a warm, friendly family run restaurant. It has brick faced interior walls and a polished wooden floor; which gives a Spanish feel to the restaurant, no mean feat given the heavy snowfall on the streets outside.
Menu
The menu has a large variety of dishes. Traditional tapas, such as fried goats cheese and stuffed artichoke. Appetisers, such as Spanish air dried ham, sizzled king prawns and main courses such as chicken in honey and paella.
Service
The service was friendly and very prompt. The owner took the time to talk to the diners during the evening; making them feel welcome.
Indeed, when one of the other diners (for reasons that escaped me) threw a wine glass across the room hitting another diner, then running out of the restaurant and down the street; the staff were very calm. They arranged some first aid for the hapless victim, and ensured that the police who arrived a few minutes later were properly briefed. Splendid entertainment! I don’t think that happens every night.
Food
I started with the Spanish potato omelette, which was a nice size and an ideal starter.
I chose the tournedos steak in brandy and rose pepper sauce for my main course. I was very pleased with this, the meat was very tender and cooked rare as requested. The sauce was very piquant and flavoursome. The dish was accompanied by a large bowl of potatoes gratin.
Eva had three different tapas dishes for her meal; paella with prawns, scallops in white wine and skewered chicken with chipped potatoes. She enjoyed all three. However, the chipped potatoes were a little undercooked.
We finished with brandy and coffee.
The meal, which included a bottle of Chardonnay, came to around 1500SEK.
Overall Opinion
In my opinion, this is worth a visit if you are passing through Stockholm.
Andalucia
Döbelnsgatan 79
Stockholm
Sweden
Phone:- 08 15 6660
Website www.andalucia.se
Overview
Eva and I went to Andalucia, a Spanish restaurant in Stockholm, for Valentine’s day.
Ambience
Andalucia is a warm, friendly family run restaurant. It has brick faced interior walls and a polished wooden floor; which gives a Spanish feel to the restaurant, no mean feat given the heavy snowfall on the streets outside.
Menu
The menu has a large variety of dishes. Traditional tapas, such as fried goats cheese and stuffed artichoke. Appetisers, such as Spanish air dried ham, sizzled king prawns and main courses such as chicken in honey and paella.
Service
The service was friendly and very prompt. The owner took the time to talk to the diners during the evening; making them feel welcome.
Indeed, when one of the other diners (for reasons that escaped me) threw a wine glass across the room hitting another diner, then running out of the restaurant and down the street; the staff were very calm. They arranged some first aid for the hapless victim, and ensured that the police who arrived a few minutes later were properly briefed. Splendid entertainment! I don’t think that happens every night.
Food
I started with the Spanish potato omelette, which was a nice size and an ideal starter.
I chose the tournedos steak in brandy and rose pepper sauce for my main course. I was very pleased with this, the meat was very tender and cooked rare as requested. The sauce was very piquant and flavoursome. The dish was accompanied by a large bowl of potatoes gratin.
Eva had three different tapas dishes for her meal; paella with prawns, scallops in white wine and skewered chicken with chipped potatoes. She enjoyed all three. However, the chipped potatoes were a little undercooked.
We finished with brandy and coffee.
The meal, which included a bottle of Chardonnay, came to around 1500SEK.
Overall Opinion
In my opinion, this is worth a visit if you are passing through Stockholm.
Restaurant
Martini
Norrmalmstorg 4
111 46 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone:- 08 440 3880
Website www.italmonti.se
Overview
Eva and I were in Stockholm this weekend, visiting a few of our old haunts. We decided to visit Martini, an Italian restaurant, in the centre of town.
Ambience
Martini consists of a bar on the ground floor and restaurant in the cellar. The main restaurant is bright and breezy with white painted walls, resembling the inside of a cave, interspersed with alcoves housing wine bottles. The tables are laid with yellow and white tablecloths, the chairs are metal, shaped and painted to resemble bamboo.
In addition to the main restaurant, there is a large private dining area and wine bar that can accommodate up to 44 people; suitable for parties.
I would make one observation regarding the gents toilets in the restaurant, the hand towels had run out the evening we were there.
Menu
The restaurant eschews the traditional spaghetti bolognese favoured by many other Italian restaurants. Instead the dishes on offer are more imaginative. The menu includes baked salmon, pasta with truffles, pasta with calamares and a special tri pasta feast for two people as well as veal, lamb and steak dishes.
Service
The service was very friendly and personal. However, it was a little “languid”; fortunately we were not in a hurry. Indeed, as the restaurant stays open until 3:00 am at the weekends you can take a very relaxed pace to your meal.
Food
I started with pasta tubes filled with ham and cucumber, served in a cheese based sauce. This was a very rich and creamy dish; flavoursome and generous in quantity. Those of you with lesser appetites would have been satisfied with this dish as a main course. Being a trencherman myself, I was very pleased with my choice of it as a starter.
My main course was chicken breast and leg in a fresh sage and white wine sauce served on a slice of bread. The chicken was tender and succulent, complimented by the very flavoursome sauce. The dish was accompanied by a generous bowl of roasted potatoes. I enjoyed it very much.
Eva started with a mozzarella and basil salad, served with a large slice of bread fried in butter. This was quite a generous portion, Eva was pleased with her choice.
Her main course was skewered halibut and prawns served on a bed of risotto. The flavour was light and delicate, enhanced by the risotto which had been cooked in a gentle stock which did not overpower it.
We finished with coffee and dessert wine.
The meal, including a bottle of Chablis, came to 1306SEK before service.
Overall Opinion
I am happy to recommend this restaurant, both for its food and atmosphere.
Martini
Norrmalmstorg 4
111 46 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone:- 08 440 3880
Website www.italmonti.se
Overview
Eva and I were in Stockholm this weekend, visiting a few of our old haunts. We decided to visit Martini, an Italian restaurant, in the centre of town.
Ambience
Martini consists of a bar on the ground floor and restaurant in the cellar. The main restaurant is bright and breezy with white painted walls, resembling the inside of a cave, interspersed with alcoves housing wine bottles. The tables are laid with yellow and white tablecloths, the chairs are metal, shaped and painted to resemble bamboo.
In addition to the main restaurant, there is a large private dining area and wine bar that can accommodate up to 44 people; suitable for parties.
I would make one observation regarding the gents toilets in the restaurant, the hand towels had run out the evening we were there.
Menu
The restaurant eschews the traditional spaghetti bolognese favoured by many other Italian restaurants. Instead the dishes on offer are more imaginative. The menu includes baked salmon, pasta with truffles, pasta with calamares and a special tri pasta feast for two people as well as veal, lamb and steak dishes.
Service
The service was very friendly and personal. However, it was a little “languid”; fortunately we were not in a hurry. Indeed, as the restaurant stays open until 3:00 am at the weekends you can take a very relaxed pace to your meal.
Food
I started with pasta tubes filled with ham and cucumber, served in a cheese based sauce. This was a very rich and creamy dish; flavoursome and generous in quantity. Those of you with lesser appetites would have been satisfied with this dish as a main course. Being a trencherman myself, I was very pleased with my choice of it as a starter.
My main course was chicken breast and leg in a fresh sage and white wine sauce served on a slice of bread. The chicken was tender and succulent, complimented by the very flavoursome sauce. The dish was accompanied by a generous bowl of roasted potatoes. I enjoyed it very much.
Eva started with a mozzarella and basil salad, served with a large slice of bread fried in butter. This was quite a generous portion, Eva was pleased with her choice.
Her main course was skewered halibut and prawns served on a bed of risotto. The flavour was light and delicate, enhanced by the risotto which had been cooked in a gentle stock which did not overpower it.
We finished with coffee and dessert wine.
The meal, including a bottle of Chablis, came to 1306SEK before service.
Overall Opinion
I am happy to recommend this restaurant, both for its food and atmosphere.
Tuesday, February 04, 2003
Restaurant
Christopher’s
Thistle Victoria
Buckingham Palace Road
Victoria
London
Phone:- 0207 976 5522
Website www.christophersgrill.com
Overview
Christopher’s is an independently operated American grill restaurant situated in the Thistle Hotel Victoria station.
Eva, Victoria (Eva’s niece) and myself, had a jolly Sunday evening there.
Ambience
The restaurant is stylish, and is set in a splendid high ceilinged room interspersed with pillars decorated in the manner of an ancient Egyptian palace. In addition to the main dining room, Christopher’s sports a trendy cocktail bar which is sleek and comfortable; ideal for pre or post dinner “quaffing”.
Menu
The restaurant’s theme is that of an American grill, as such there is a good selection of grilled meats on offer. In keeping with the American theme, the menu also includes American inspired dishes such as; pumpkin soup, crab cakes and pecan pie.
Service
The service was attentive and efficient, our pre dinner cocktails were swiftly despatched; enabling us to stimulate our appetites whilst perusing the menus.
Fresh baked bread was offered twice; before the meal, and with the starters.
Food
I started with fettuccine which was combined with meatballs, Chorizo and spinach. In my opinion the meatballs, although firm in texture, lacked any discernible taste. I would recommend that the chef adjusts the seasoning accordingly; basil, garlic and black pepper should do the trick.
As a main course I had a 10oz new York strip, rare, with French fries and bernaise sauce. This was succulent and tender; seared on the outside, to seal in the flavour, red and juicy on the inside. The fries were tasty, and the portion generous. The Bernaise sauce, served in a bowl, complimented the steak.
I finished the meal with a couple of Irish coffees, which were very well constructed; the cream being decorated with coffee beans.
Victoria started with pumpkin soup, which was spicy and flavoursome. I regretted not choosing this myself.
Eva had the crab cakes and rocket salad for her starter. The cakes were moist and had a well balanced seasoning.
The ladies both opted for corn fed chicken breast with mashed potato, they were pleased with their choice.
Victoria finished her meal with the satsuma terrine, which bore a passing resemblance to a thick slice of smoked salmon. However, I am happy to say it did not taste like salmon! This served as a refreshing and tangy closing dish to the meal.
Eva finished with the pecan pie, which she thoroughly enjoyed.
The overall meal, which included a bottle of Chablis, a bottle of water, champagne cocktails and Irish coffees, came to £174 including a £20 service charge.
Overall Opinion
We enjoyed our evening, and will return again at some point in the future.
Christopher’s
Thistle Victoria
Buckingham Palace Road
Victoria
London
Phone:- 0207 976 5522
Website www.christophersgrill.com
Overview
Christopher’s is an independently operated American grill restaurant situated in the Thistle Hotel Victoria station.
Eva, Victoria (Eva’s niece) and myself, had a jolly Sunday evening there.
Ambience
The restaurant is stylish, and is set in a splendid high ceilinged room interspersed with pillars decorated in the manner of an ancient Egyptian palace. In addition to the main dining room, Christopher’s sports a trendy cocktail bar which is sleek and comfortable; ideal for pre or post dinner “quaffing”.
Menu
The restaurant’s theme is that of an American grill, as such there is a good selection of grilled meats on offer. In keeping with the American theme, the menu also includes American inspired dishes such as; pumpkin soup, crab cakes and pecan pie.
Service
The service was attentive and efficient, our pre dinner cocktails were swiftly despatched; enabling us to stimulate our appetites whilst perusing the menus.
Fresh baked bread was offered twice; before the meal, and with the starters.
Food
I started with fettuccine which was combined with meatballs, Chorizo and spinach. In my opinion the meatballs, although firm in texture, lacked any discernible taste. I would recommend that the chef adjusts the seasoning accordingly; basil, garlic and black pepper should do the trick.
As a main course I had a 10oz new York strip, rare, with French fries and bernaise sauce. This was succulent and tender; seared on the outside, to seal in the flavour, red and juicy on the inside. The fries were tasty, and the portion generous. The Bernaise sauce, served in a bowl, complimented the steak.
I finished the meal with a couple of Irish coffees, which were very well constructed; the cream being decorated with coffee beans.
Victoria started with pumpkin soup, which was spicy and flavoursome. I regretted not choosing this myself.
Eva had the crab cakes and rocket salad for her starter. The cakes were moist and had a well balanced seasoning.
The ladies both opted for corn fed chicken breast with mashed potato, they were pleased with their choice.
Victoria finished her meal with the satsuma terrine, which bore a passing resemblance to a thick slice of smoked salmon. However, I am happy to say it did not taste like salmon! This served as a refreshing and tangy closing dish to the meal.
Eva finished with the pecan pie, which she thoroughly enjoyed.
The overall meal, which included a bottle of Chablis, a bottle of water, champagne cocktails and Irish coffees, came to £174 including a £20 service charge.
Overall Opinion
We enjoyed our evening, and will return again at some point in the future.
Friday, January 03, 2003
Restaurant
Tower Restaurant
Museum of Scotland
Chambers Street
Edinburgh
EH1 1JF
Phone:- 0131 225 3003
Website www.tower-restaurant.com
Overview
The Tower sits on top of the Museum of Scotland and offers an exceptional view of the castle and skyline of Edinburgh. It specialises in Scottish produce, including steaks and shellfish. The restaurant comprises an indoor rooftop (seating around 100) and outdoor terrace (seating around 70); the restaurant is very popular and you are advised to book (we were told that some people had booked their New Year tables one year ago).
Eva and I, spending Hogmanay in Edinburgh, went there on New Year’s eve. Our booking was for 10:30PM, so we were able to watch the spectacular New Year firework display.
Ambience
The restaurant is elegant and sleek, it eschews the traditional tartan and stuffed animal trophy decorative style favoured by some other Scottish restaurants. Instead the décor is bright, airy and tasteful; polished wooden floors complimenting the lightly stained wooden table tops. A floor to ceiling window runs the full length of one side of the restaurant, so if you are fortunate enough to have a window seat you have an unparalleled view of the castle. However, should you have one of the other tables you will still be able to view the skyline. We were fortunate enough to have a window seat, I am pleased to say the that the double glazing and heating was efficient enough to ensure that we did not feel cold.
When we arrived at the Museum of Scotland we were greeted by a uniformed commissionaire, who ticked our name on a list and showed us to an elevator. This took us to the fifth floor where we were greeted by the Head Waiter, who had been telephoned by the commissionaire; to let him know we were on our way up.
Rather impressively, despite being New Year’s Eve (with all the potential for people delaying their departure); our table was ready, and we were seated immediately.
The restaurant was full, but close to midnight all the diners and staff put their coats on and stood out on the terrace to watch the fireworks, we were lazy and decided to stay in the warm; but we still had a splendid view. I am rather relieved that unlike other restaurants, at New Year, there was no enforced communal singing or hugging; save for handshakes and “happy New Year” from the staff.
Menu
The restaurant offers a variety of traditional Scottish food (prepared with imagination) including; steaks, lamb shank, oysters, crab, liver, roast roots and fish. Even the bread was a special mustard based recipe!
The wine list is extensive and rather sensibly, in my view, is divided into sub sections offering diners a choice of price brackets.
Service
The service was attentive, very friendly and efficient. Our Kir Royales and menus arrived within a matter of minutes of us being seated.
There were a good number of staff on duty who, even though they were working on New Year’s eve, ensured that orders were promptly and efficiently despatched. Half an hour before midnight we were asked if we would like to order a drink to toast in the New Year; that afforded them a well deserved break, so that they could watch the fireworks with everyone else.
Food
I started with the lentil and ham soup, warm rich yellow (evocative of the season) complimented by thin slices of ham placed in the centre; full marks.
As a main course I had a 12oz fillet steak, rare. This was succulent and tender; seared on the outside, to seal in the flavour, red and juicy on the inside. The steak was served with onion rings, hand cut potato wedges and roasted root vegetables; an excellent choice.
I finished with an orange sorbet, smooth and creamy, which was a little more than I could handle.
Eva started with duck parfait, a very generous rich and succulent portion served with toast. She was very pleased with it.
As a main course Eva had the lamb shank which, in keeping with the imaginative style of cuisine, was served with a portion of lam cutlet and loin of lamb. The shank had been braised to perfection so that the meat literally fell of the bone. The dish came with creamy mashed potatoes. Eva thoroughly enjoyed it.
The overall meal, which included a bottle of Chablis, a bottle of water and two glasses of champagne, came to £121 before tip; exceptional value.
Overall Opinion
I have absolutely no hesitation at all in recommending this restaurant; definitely a cut above some of the other restaurants who offer “traditional Scottish fayre”. We will be dining there again when we return to Edinburgh.
Tower Restaurant
Museum of Scotland
Chambers Street
Edinburgh
EH1 1JF
Phone:- 0131 225 3003
Website www.tower-restaurant.com
Overview
The Tower sits on top of the Museum of Scotland and offers an exceptional view of the castle and skyline of Edinburgh. It specialises in Scottish produce, including steaks and shellfish. The restaurant comprises an indoor rooftop (seating around 100) and outdoor terrace (seating around 70); the restaurant is very popular and you are advised to book (we were told that some people had booked their New Year tables one year ago).
Eva and I, spending Hogmanay in Edinburgh, went there on New Year’s eve. Our booking was for 10:30PM, so we were able to watch the spectacular New Year firework display.
Ambience
The restaurant is elegant and sleek, it eschews the traditional tartan and stuffed animal trophy decorative style favoured by some other Scottish restaurants. Instead the décor is bright, airy and tasteful; polished wooden floors complimenting the lightly stained wooden table tops. A floor to ceiling window runs the full length of one side of the restaurant, so if you are fortunate enough to have a window seat you have an unparalleled view of the castle. However, should you have one of the other tables you will still be able to view the skyline. We were fortunate enough to have a window seat, I am pleased to say the that the double glazing and heating was efficient enough to ensure that we did not feel cold.
When we arrived at the Museum of Scotland we were greeted by a uniformed commissionaire, who ticked our name on a list and showed us to an elevator. This took us to the fifth floor where we were greeted by the Head Waiter, who had been telephoned by the commissionaire; to let him know we were on our way up.
Rather impressively, despite being New Year’s Eve (with all the potential for people delaying their departure); our table was ready, and we were seated immediately.
The restaurant was full, but close to midnight all the diners and staff put their coats on and stood out on the terrace to watch the fireworks, we were lazy and decided to stay in the warm; but we still had a splendid view. I am rather relieved that unlike other restaurants, at New Year, there was no enforced communal singing or hugging; save for handshakes and “happy New Year” from the staff.
Menu
The restaurant offers a variety of traditional Scottish food (prepared with imagination) including; steaks, lamb shank, oysters, crab, liver, roast roots and fish. Even the bread was a special mustard based recipe!
The wine list is extensive and rather sensibly, in my view, is divided into sub sections offering diners a choice of price brackets.
Service
The service was attentive, very friendly and efficient. Our Kir Royales and menus arrived within a matter of minutes of us being seated.
There were a good number of staff on duty who, even though they were working on New Year’s eve, ensured that orders were promptly and efficiently despatched. Half an hour before midnight we were asked if we would like to order a drink to toast in the New Year; that afforded them a well deserved break, so that they could watch the fireworks with everyone else.
Food
I started with the lentil and ham soup, warm rich yellow (evocative of the season) complimented by thin slices of ham placed in the centre; full marks.
As a main course I had a 12oz fillet steak, rare. This was succulent and tender; seared on the outside, to seal in the flavour, red and juicy on the inside. The steak was served with onion rings, hand cut potato wedges and roasted root vegetables; an excellent choice.
I finished with an orange sorbet, smooth and creamy, which was a little more than I could handle.
Eva started with duck parfait, a very generous rich and succulent portion served with toast. She was very pleased with it.
As a main course Eva had the lamb shank which, in keeping with the imaginative style of cuisine, was served with a portion of lam cutlet and loin of lamb. The shank had been braised to perfection so that the meat literally fell of the bone. The dish came with creamy mashed potatoes. Eva thoroughly enjoyed it.
The overall meal, which included a bottle of Chablis, a bottle of water and two glasses of champagne, came to £121 before tip; exceptional value.
Overall Opinion
I have absolutely no hesitation at all in recommending this restaurant; definitely a cut above some of the other restaurants who offer “traditional Scottish fayre”. We will be dining there again when we return to Edinburgh.
Monday, December 23, 2002
Oscars - The Croydon Park Hotel
Restaurant
Oscar’s
The Croydon Park Hotel
7 Altyre Road
Croydon
Website http://www.croydonparkhotel.co.uk
Phone:- 0208 680 9200
Overview
Oscar's has been open for many years. It offers a buffet carvery and an a la carte menu, for lunch and dinner; together with an English and continental buffet breakfast in the mornings. It comprises a spacious split level dining room, with a central buffet area and carving trolley. It is situated on the ground floor of the hotel next to the gas-lit bar.
My parents and myself went there last night for dinner (Eva is visiting family and friends in Sweden).
Ambience
The restaurant is bright and spacious, towards the back of the restaurant is a raised area where there are additional tables which are used when the restaurant is busy. Above the large buffet area is a back lit glass ceiling, which acts as an attractive focal point (should you enjoy looking at ceilings!).
The tables are traditionally laid with linen tablecloths and napkins. The staff are very friendly and polite, indeed as a frequent traveller I find it particularly refreshing to find a hotel and restaurant with such a friendly atmosphere. They manage to create a family atmosphere that is rare in hotels of this size.
We were warmly greeted by the head waiter and shown to our table, which was regrettably (for the head waiter, who endured some minutes of my father’s views on the subject) placed between two pillars (our normal table was apparently occupied by friends of the manager). We were offered another but chose to stay there as it was convenient for the buffet. I suspect that won’t happen again!
I would draw management’s attention to one issue that rankles. During the meal the ambient temperature was agreeable (the restaurant is air conditioned); however, after 10:30PM as the tables were being made ready for breakfast the air-conditioning was set to “cool”. I am a natural cynic, and suspect this was done to speed the remaining guests departure. To my view this is not acceptable, I would request that you please refrain from doing this again.
Menu
The restaurant offers both a la carte and three course, eat as much as you want, buffet. The latter consists of a wide variety of starters (including smoked salmon, parma ham, melon, fresh fruits, eggs and salads) which guests help themselves to from the chilled buffet. The main courses (such as lamb, fish or chicken) are again self service buffet or a roast joint on a covered trolley carved for you by the staff. Desserts are presented in the chilled buffet area.
Service
The service is attentive, friendly and efficient. Bread rolls, butter and menus were presented as soon as we had sat down.
Food
We all opted for the buffet. My mother, taking an extra course, had the tomato and pepper soup; which she was very impressed with. Then we made our way to the buffet for the starters. We each took a good selection of the delicacies on offer on our plates, including smoked salmon, eggs mayonnaise, prawns, parma ham and lobster. Full marks, very fresh and of good quality.
Since this was the last Sunday before Christmas the carving trolley, not surprisingly, had a turkey on it. However, in deference to those people who did not want to overload on turkey there was also a joint of beef. Family Frost opted for the latter, which was cooked medium and was succulent and tasty. The vegetables on the buffet included roast and boiled potatoes, Brussels, carrots, cauliflower and broccoli. The vegetables were well cooked and flavoursome, although the Brussels were a little overcooked.
I managed to have room for another visit to the buffet; this time opting for garlic chicken, excellent.
My mother had room for dessert (she tried three different cream laden desserts), my father and I managed a Remy Martin each.
The overall meal, which included two bottles of a Chablis and pre dinner aperitifs, came to £150 before tip; I believe this to be good value.
Overall Opinion
I am happy to recommend this; and would suggest that it is ideal for multi generational family meals. There is always something for everyone, and it offers the opportunity to eat a hearty roast without having to spend hours cooking it.
Oscar’s
The Croydon Park Hotel
7 Altyre Road
Croydon
Website http://www.croydonparkhotel.co.uk
Phone:- 0208 680 9200
Overview
Oscar's has been open for many years. It offers a buffet carvery and an a la carte menu, for lunch and dinner; together with an English and continental buffet breakfast in the mornings. It comprises a spacious split level dining room, with a central buffet area and carving trolley. It is situated on the ground floor of the hotel next to the gas-lit bar.
My parents and myself went there last night for dinner (Eva is visiting family and friends in Sweden).
Ambience
The restaurant is bright and spacious, towards the back of the restaurant is a raised area where there are additional tables which are used when the restaurant is busy. Above the large buffet area is a back lit glass ceiling, which acts as an attractive focal point (should you enjoy looking at ceilings!).
The tables are traditionally laid with linen tablecloths and napkins. The staff are very friendly and polite, indeed as a frequent traveller I find it particularly refreshing to find a hotel and restaurant with such a friendly atmosphere. They manage to create a family atmosphere that is rare in hotels of this size.
We were warmly greeted by the head waiter and shown to our table, which was regrettably (for the head waiter, who endured some minutes of my father’s views on the subject) placed between two pillars (our normal table was apparently occupied by friends of the manager). We were offered another but chose to stay there as it was convenient for the buffet. I suspect that won’t happen again!
I would draw management’s attention to one issue that rankles. During the meal the ambient temperature was agreeable (the restaurant is air conditioned); however, after 10:30PM as the tables were being made ready for breakfast the air-conditioning was set to “cool”. I am a natural cynic, and suspect this was done to speed the remaining guests departure. To my view this is not acceptable, I would request that you please refrain from doing this again.
Menu
The restaurant offers both a la carte and three course, eat as much as you want, buffet. The latter consists of a wide variety of starters (including smoked salmon, parma ham, melon, fresh fruits, eggs and salads) which guests help themselves to from the chilled buffet. The main courses (such as lamb, fish or chicken) are again self service buffet or a roast joint on a covered trolley carved for you by the staff. Desserts are presented in the chilled buffet area.
Service
The service is attentive, friendly and efficient. Bread rolls, butter and menus were presented as soon as we had sat down.
Food
We all opted for the buffet. My mother, taking an extra course, had the tomato and pepper soup; which she was very impressed with. Then we made our way to the buffet for the starters. We each took a good selection of the delicacies on offer on our plates, including smoked salmon, eggs mayonnaise, prawns, parma ham and lobster. Full marks, very fresh and of good quality.
Since this was the last Sunday before Christmas the carving trolley, not surprisingly, had a turkey on it. However, in deference to those people who did not want to overload on turkey there was also a joint of beef. Family Frost opted for the latter, which was cooked medium and was succulent and tasty. The vegetables on the buffet included roast and boiled potatoes, Brussels, carrots, cauliflower and broccoli. The vegetables were well cooked and flavoursome, although the Brussels were a little overcooked.
I managed to have room for another visit to the buffet; this time opting for garlic chicken, excellent.
My mother had room for dessert (she tried three different cream laden desserts), my father and I managed a Remy Martin each.
The overall meal, which included two bottles of a Chablis and pre dinner aperitifs, came to £150 before tip; I believe this to be good value.
Overall Opinion
I am happy to recommend this; and would suggest that it is ideal for multi generational family meals. There is always something for everyone, and it offers the opportunity to eat a hearty roast without having to spend hours cooking it.
Wednesday, November 06, 2002
Restaurant
The Grand Divan
Simpson’s in the Strand
100 Strand
London
WC2R 0EW
Phone:- 0207 836 9112
Website http://www.simpson’s-in-the-strand.com
Overview
Simpson’s is part of the Savoy group (indeed the hotel is next door) and is one of London’s top class restaurants, offering traditional English cooking; breakfast, lunch and dinner. It comprises a number of restaurants, function rooms and bars on two floors.
Myself and three chums from university went to the Grand Divan (the restaurant on the ground floor) on Monday night, for a boys’ night out.
Ambience
The restaurant is traditional in décor, attitude and service; which resembles a gentleman's club from the Victorian era. The dining room offers tables or booths, all are fully laid with white tablecloths, linen napkins, silver cutlery and a variety of glasses for water and wine.
As befits a quality restaurant, that prides itself on its cuisine, Simpson’s expects people to take pride in their appearance, as a courtesy to others; as such you are required to wear a jacket and tie.
When we arrived we were courteously greeted by one of the many waiters, and shown to our table. The restaurant was almost full, and so it is advisable to book.
Menu
The restaurant offers an extensive menu comprising traditional British dishes such as roast beef (carved on the trolley), potted shrimps, rack of lamb, steak and kidney pudding and steamed sponge pudding.
Service
The service is attentive, courteous and professional. When we sat down we were promptly offered our menus, bread rolls and napkins which were unfolded and placed on our laps.
Within five minutes of receiving our gin an tonics, one of my friends had succeeded in knocking his over. Instead of fussing over changing the tablecloth we were promptly offered another table, instead of disturbing us by relaying the table with us sitting there.
Food
I started with smoked salmon, simply served on a large plate with a slice of lemon and buttered brown bread. This was very good, and an ideal starter if you are following on with a heavy meal. My main course was an easy choice, roast beef from the trolley. The joint is carved in front of you, and you are offered a choice of well done or rare. The chef is happy to carve as much or as little as you wish.
I opted for a large portion together with and extra slice of fat, very unhealthy but absolutely mouth watering. The beef is served with roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and cabbage. Should you wish other vegetables the menu offers you a choice. Additionally, they are flexible enough to provide you with things not on the menu, for example you can even order bubble and squeak. The food was excellent, the beef succulent, tender and flavoursome; clearly it had been properly hung thereby allowing the flavour to mature and the meat to tenderise naturally.
My friends opted to start with potted shrimps, but all went for the same main course. Dessert was easy, four steamed sponge puddings with custard. Very sweet, moist and filling.
We finished off with some malt whisky.
The overall meal, which included two bottles of Croze Hermitage, four gins, four whiskies and mineral water, came to £275.
Overall Opinion
Definitely one of the more reliable London restaurants, well worth a visit by locals or tourists.
The Grand Divan
Simpson’s in the Strand
100 Strand
London
WC2R 0EW
Phone:- 0207 836 9112
Website http://www.simpson’s-in-the-strand.com
Overview
Simpson’s is part of the Savoy group (indeed the hotel is next door) and is one of London’s top class restaurants, offering traditional English cooking; breakfast, lunch and dinner. It comprises a number of restaurants, function rooms and bars on two floors.
Myself and three chums from university went to the Grand Divan (the restaurant on the ground floor) on Monday night, for a boys’ night out.
Ambience
The restaurant is traditional in décor, attitude and service; which resembles a gentleman's club from the Victorian era. The dining room offers tables or booths, all are fully laid with white tablecloths, linen napkins, silver cutlery and a variety of glasses for water and wine.
As befits a quality restaurant, that prides itself on its cuisine, Simpson’s expects people to take pride in their appearance, as a courtesy to others; as such you are required to wear a jacket and tie.
When we arrived we were courteously greeted by one of the many waiters, and shown to our table. The restaurant was almost full, and so it is advisable to book.
Menu
The restaurant offers an extensive menu comprising traditional British dishes such as roast beef (carved on the trolley), potted shrimps, rack of lamb, steak and kidney pudding and steamed sponge pudding.
Service
The service is attentive, courteous and professional. When we sat down we were promptly offered our menus, bread rolls and napkins which were unfolded and placed on our laps.
Within five minutes of receiving our gin an tonics, one of my friends had succeeded in knocking his over. Instead of fussing over changing the tablecloth we were promptly offered another table, instead of disturbing us by relaying the table with us sitting there.
Food
I started with smoked salmon, simply served on a large plate with a slice of lemon and buttered brown bread. This was very good, and an ideal starter if you are following on with a heavy meal. My main course was an easy choice, roast beef from the trolley. The joint is carved in front of you, and you are offered a choice of well done or rare. The chef is happy to carve as much or as little as you wish.
I opted for a large portion together with and extra slice of fat, very unhealthy but absolutely mouth watering. The beef is served with roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and cabbage. Should you wish other vegetables the menu offers you a choice. Additionally, they are flexible enough to provide you with things not on the menu, for example you can even order bubble and squeak. The food was excellent, the beef succulent, tender and flavoursome; clearly it had been properly hung thereby allowing the flavour to mature and the meat to tenderise naturally.
My friends opted to start with potted shrimps, but all went for the same main course. Dessert was easy, four steamed sponge puddings with custard. Very sweet, moist and filling.
We finished off with some malt whisky.
The overall meal, which included two bottles of Croze Hermitage, four gins, four whiskies and mineral water, came to £275.
Overall Opinion
Definitely one of the more reliable London restaurants, well worth a visit by locals or tourists.
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