Fire & Stone

If you're judging Fire and Stone on food alone, it should get five stars...provided you like pizza. They take a tired classic and give it a gourmet twist, whacking all kinds of unusual international toppings onto a pizza base. I've been a few times because of its proximity to work, and even veggie friends and fussy eaters mates managed to find something to suit. From an Aussie pizza with sour cream, sweet chilli sauce, roast potato and chicken to a goats cheese and caramelised onion offering, there's something for everyone.

The restaurant decor is nothing to complain about, though it's a bit cramped and plasticy. Prices are fair with some good lunchtime offers and specials. However, as with all Covent Garden restaurants, it gets super busy and this is where things get interesting...

Service seems to be a constant problem at this place judging by other reviews. When I've been with just one or two friends it's been slow but tolerable. In big groups, it's not so good. On a birthday night out we booked in advance for about 9 people. We were given a 'time slot' during which to eat our meal and got some VERY dirty looks when we continued to sit there past our kicking out time. We were only there because they'd not come to sort out the bill and process our card.

Service charge is added to the bill by default, but of course you don't have to pay it if you don't want to. This particular night, we chose not to. The food may be good for the price but it's not outstanding - it's only pizza after all - and service with a smile costs nothing.