Latest reviews in Bankside, London, United Kingdom

The Anchor & Hope - Noisy, crowded, but tasty food by sue

sue — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:29:53 +0000

Review by sue

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7633 9144

Tags: gastro pub, relaxed, good value

We had a Saturday lunch at the Anchor & Hope. As they don't take bookings (apart from for Sunday lunch), we arrived at 12pm and queued up, waiting for the dining room to open. Not long after we were seated in the middle of the room, making the small space even more cramped with our pram.

The three of us couldn't decide between all the good sounding menu options, so decided to share several starters, instead of ordering individual main courses. We had the Salt Beef Broth with parsley & dumplings (deemed by my companions to be the best soup of the year); the Potato, Queen Scallop & Mussel salad; the Beetroot, Horseradish & Watercress salad; the Bresaola, Rocket & Lemon; and the Deep Fried Rabbit with Radish & Rouille. All very enjoyable - great flavours and attractive presentation.

We were full but desserts sounded too good to miss. We had the Queen of Puddings; the Flourless Chocolate Cake; and some Pecan Praline ice cream (evil) and Ale ice cream (better than it sounds). Again, all were so delicious. The chocolate cake was very rich though and even with three of us eating we couldn't finish it.

Service was relaxed and friendly throughout our meal, and the atmosphere was great, though noise levels didn't make for easy conversation.We had a Saturday lunch at the Anchor & Hope. As they don't take bookings (apart from for Sunday lunch), we arrived at 12pm and queued up, waiting for the dining room to open. Not long after we were seated in the middle of the room, making the small space even more cramped with our pram.

The three of us couldn't decide between all the good sounding menu options, so decided to share several starters, instead of ordering individual main courses. We had the Salt Beef Broth with parsley & dumplings (deemed by my companions to be the best soup of the year); the Potato, Queen Scallop & Mussel salad; the Beetroot, Horseradish & Watercress salad; the Bresaola, Rocket & Lemon; and the Deep Fried Rabbit with Radish & Rouille. All very enjoyable - great flavours and attractive presentation.

We were full but desserts sounded too good to miss. We had the Queen of Puddings; the Flourless Chocolate Cake; and some Pecan Praline ice cream (evil) and Ale ice cream (better than it sounds). Again, all were so delicious. The chocolate cake was very rich though and even with three of us eating we couldn't finish it.

Service was relaxed and friendly throughout our meal, and the atmosphere was great, though noise levels didn't make for easy conversation.

Tortilla - Home of burrito by Rhondes

Rhondes — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:01:32 +0000

Review by Rhondes

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7620 0285

Website: http://www.tortilla.co.uk/

Tags: lively, takeaway, cheap eat

Friendly, quick service helps make this counter-service restaurantâ¬which describes itself as "home of burrito"â¬a local favorite. Add guacamole to your meal for just 50p and after 3 to 5 mins(yes, that's how long it takes to prepare a burrito there) grab a seat inside our out. In the evening enjoy 'corona bucket' - 5 coronas for just 12 pounds plus bowl of tortilla chips.

Would I buy it again? Yes , easily. Would I recommend it? Definitely. For just 5 pounds you get a decent , tasy burrito. Could I ask for more?

Friendly, quick service helps make this counter-service restaurantâ¬which describes itself as "home of burrito"â¬a local favorite. Add guacamole to your meal for just 50p and after 3 to 5 mins(yes, that's how long it takes to prepare a burrito there) grab a seat inside our out. In the evening enjoy 'corona bucket' - 5 coronas for just 12 pounds plus bowl of tortilla chips.

Would I buy it again? Yes , easily. Would I recommend it? Definitely. For just 5 pounds you get a decent , tasy burrito. Could I ask for more?

The Table - by EileenH

EileenH — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:58:08 +0000

Review by EileenH

Rating: 2.00

Phone: 020 7401 2760

Website: http://www.thetablecafe.com

Tags: southwark, good brew, quick bite

Nice food but wouldn't recommend Sundays, too busy. When I complained that our order appeared to get lost I was told they had 'More customers than they could cope with'. A lesson there I think. Be aware that the discretionary 12.5% service charge is at their discretion not yours! Donâ¬"t sit by the door either, very windy!Nice food but wouldn't recommend Sundays, too busy. When I complained that our order appeared to get lost I was told they had 'More customers than they could cope with'. A lesson there I think. Be aware that the discretionary 12.5% service charge is at their discretion not yours! Donâ¬"t sit by the door either, very windy!

The Market Porter - by sld52

sld52 — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:53:34 +0000

Review by sld52

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7407 2495

Tags: friendly, busy, independent pub

LOVE the Market Porter. Always buzzing, great sleection of drinks and a fab atmosphere. It is really busy all the time (not to its detriment) so sometimes it can take a few minutes to get served, but it doesn't detract at all. Highly recommended.LOVE the Market Porter. Always buzzing, great sleection of drinks and a fab atmosphere. It is really busy all the time (not to its detriment) so sometimes it can take a few minutes to get served, but it doesn't detract at all. Highly recommended.

The Gladstone Arms - The Glad is fab! by sld52

sld52 — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:50:43 +0000

Review by sld52

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7407 3962

Tags: jazz, live music, relaxed

This is a cool little place. It has quite an intimate feel without being to invasive, almost like being in someone's living room with a bunch of mates. Lots of music, often bands and live jazz on. Nice food. Oh and I think they have board games (!)

Really highly recommended!This is a cool little place. It has quite an intimate feel without being to invasive, almost like being in someone's living room with a bunch of mates. Lots of music, often bands and live jazz on. Nice food. Oh and I think they have board games (!)

Really highly recommended!

Tate Modern - by NJohns69er

NJohns69er — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 19:49:26 +0000

Review by NJohns69er

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 7887 8008

Website: http://www.tate.org.uk/modern

Tags: modern art, sculptures, photographic exhibition

I was eager to visit this place. And upon first glance i thought it would be a great gallery. But once inside i was massively disappointed. I covered most of the place in an hour or two, which some say may be quick but the art was of a poor standard. One painting looked like a paintbrush was planted in the anus of gorilla and he rubbed his bottom over a canvas. I would not visit again.I was eager to visit this place. And upon first glance i thought it would be a great gallery. But once inside i was massively disappointed. I covered most of the place in an hour or two, which some say may be quick but the art was of a poor standard. One painting looked like a paintbrush was planted in the anus of gorilla and he rubbed his bottom over a canvas. I would not visit again.

Gaucho Tower Bridge - Very disappointing experience. . . by satsu

satsu — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 19:28:00 +0000

Review by satsu

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 7407 5222

Website: http://www.gauchorestaurants.co.uk

Tags: expensive, business, lively

Ate here with a large party (~20) for a business do. We arrived at 7, and had been warned in advance that they would be looking for us to finish by 9:15-9:30, which we were all happy with, as we were planning a drink afterwards.

Things started off ok, with two waitresses introducing themselves, telling us that they'd be "looking after us for the evening". They explained the Signature menu, where you order a starter and dessert, and get 3 mini-main courses of fillet, sirloin and rib-eye.

The intro was promptly followed by drinks orders being taken and bread baskets brought out. The cheesy bread-balls were very nice, and I had a good few slices of the granary as well.

As it turned out, this was a very good thing because it took a while for the starters to arrive and they were very small. I had gone for the scallops, not realising that this meant a scallop, sliced up and covered in dressing. I was a bit disappointed, but thought "ah well, this is a steak restaurant, so the mains should be good".

After the starters were cleared, our 2 waitresses pretty much vanished, bar the odd visit to top up wine glasses. After about 40 minutes, warm plates were brought out which got us all quite excited. Unfortunately the first main didn't arrive for another 20 minutes, by which time the plates were stone cold.

The steak was mediocre - we had been promised that the fillet would "melt in our mouth" but mine needed some quite hefty chewing. The side dishes were nice, but at that price I was shocked that I had to share a small bowl of fries with the person next to me.

After rushing through the other 2 main courses, the staff disappeared for about another 30 minutes. They then came back in and told us that those of us who had ordered cheesecake for dessert would have to order something else as it had run out. There was no apology. Now I'm no expert on restaurant logistics, but I thought that the point of taking dessert orders up front was so that they could put them on one side and have them ready to bring in promptly after mains.

Eventually, the desserts were served. They also brought out bowls with packs of sugar, but apparently gave up on serving coffee. By the time we had eaten dessert it was already 11pm.

I didn't see the total bill, but at Â£55 a head, plus a fair amount of wine, I expected good food and good, attentive service. We got neither of those. I would certainly not eat there myself, and would probably not go again even if work was paying the bill.

As for our drink afterwards, well we had a quick fizzy water in the hotel bar and then went straight to bed as it was already 11:30 by the time we got out of the restaurant. . .Ate here with a large party (~20) for a business do. We arrived at 7, and had been warned in advance that they would be looking for us to finish by 9:15-9:30, which we were all happy with, as we were planning a drink afterwards.

Things started off ok, with two waitresses introducing themselves, telling us that they'd be "looking after us for the evening". They explained the Signature menu, where you order a starter and dessert, and get 3 mini-main courses of fillet, sirloin and rib-eye.

The intro was promptly followed by drinks orders being taken and bread baskets brought out. The cheesy bread-balls were very nice, and I had a good few slices of the granary as well.

As it turned out, this was a very good thing because it took a while for the starters to arrive and they were very small. I had gone for the scallops, not realising that this meant a scallop, sliced up and covered in dressing. I was a bit disappointed, but thought "ah well, this is a steak restaurant, so the mains should be good".

After the starters were cleared, our 2 waitresses pretty much vanished, bar the odd visit to top up wine glasses. After about 40 minutes, warm plates were brought out which got us all quite excited. Unfortunately the first main didn't arrive for another 20 minutes, by which time the plates were stone cold.

The steak was mediocre - we had been promised that the fillet would "melt in our mouth" but mine needed some quite hefty chewing. The side dishes were nice, but at that price I was shocked that I had to share a small bowl of fries with the person next to me.

After rushing through the other 2 main courses, the staff disappeared for about another 30 minutes. They then came back in and told us that those of us who had ordered cheesecake for dessert would have to order something else as it had run out. There was no apology. Now I'm no expert on restaurant logistics, but I thought that the point of taking dessert orders up front was so that they could put them on one side and have them ready to bring in promptly after mains.

Eventually, the desserts were served. They also brought out bowls with packs of sugar, but apparently gave up on serving coffee. By the time we had eaten dessert it was already 11pm.

I didn't see the total bill, but at Â£55 a head, plus a fair amount of wine, I expected good food and good, attentive service. We got neither of those. I would certainly not eat there myself, and would probably not go again even if work was paying the bill.

As for our drink afterwards, well we had a quick fizzy water in the hotel bar and then went straight to bed as it was already 11:30 by the time we got out of the restaurant. . .

Champor Champor - Simply divine by ilovelucy

ilovelucy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 12:59:27 +0000

Review by ilovelucy

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7403 4600

Website: http://www.champor-champor.com

Tags: romantic, thai, good value

Had dinner last night at Champor Champor and it was so good I can't wait to go back again. I had read up about this Malaysian-fusion restaurant beforehand and as the reviews were outstanding, I couldn't wait to try it.

We had our table booked for 6.45pm and although it was quiet at first, it was full and buzzing by the end of the evening, an impressive feat since the restaurant being in its quiet and desolate location surely does not get much passing trade. The restaurant is indeed beautiful - plenty of asian artifacts adorn the mustard coloured walls and complimented by gentle asian music - it certainly felt like a million miles away from London Bridge.

We were not let down by the food. Every course was magnificent, ingredients were fresh and the flavours worked together wonderfully but were distinct in their own right. But the mains dishes were the stars of the evening. I had the Negeri Sembilan spicy king prawns, turmeric and bird eye chilli curry; julienned Asian herbs; lemon rice whilst my friend chose the Pan fried red snapper fillet; Penang prawn laksa bisque; soba noodles. My prawn curry was probably the best curry i've tasted ever followed closely by my friend's curry. The prawns were fresh, massive and juicy and the curry combined with the asian herbs was ever so moreish. My friends noodles were much more spicy - the prawn bisque had such depth of flavour and the snapper was cooked perfectly. I was really disappointed when we finished the mains but thankfully we still had the dessert to go. I had the guava and sichuan pepper parfait with the passion fruit coulis. This dessert was genius - the sichuan pepper slightly offset the sweetness of the guava and with the tartness of the passion fruit.
the flavours constrasted beautifully.

I would definitely reccommend it for a romantic evening to impress the other half. The waiters were helpful yet not intrusive and i liked the fact that water was provided and so were the little amuse bouche and home made banana bread which were complimentary. Three courses for Â£31 does not break the bank and all in all it sums up one of the best meals i've had in a long time. I can't wait to come back to taste the other dishes.

Had dinner last night at Champor Champor and it was so good I can't wait to go back again. I had read up about this Malaysian-fusion restaurant beforehand and as the reviews were outstanding, I couldn't wait to try it.

We had our table booked for 6.45pm and although it was quiet at first, it was full and buzzing by the end of the evening, an impressive feat since the restaurant being in its quiet and desolate location surely does not get much passing trade. The restaurant is indeed beautiful - plenty of asian artifacts adorn the mustard coloured walls and complimented by gentle asian music - it certainly felt like a million miles away from London Bridge.

We were not let down by the food. Every course was magnificent, ingredients were fresh and the flavours worked together wonderfully but were distinct in their own right. But the mains dishes were the stars of the evening. I had the Negeri Sembilan spicy king prawns, turmeric and bird eye chilli curry; julienned Asian herbs; lemon rice whilst my friend chose the Pan fried red snapper fillet; Penang prawn laksa bisque; soba noodles. My prawn curry was probably the best curry i've tasted ever followed closely by my friend's curry. The prawns were fresh, massive and juicy and the curry combined with the asian herbs was ever so moreish. My friends noodles were much more spicy - the prawn bisque had such depth of flavour and the snapper was cooked perfectly. I was really disappointed when we finished the mains but thankfully we still had the dessert to go. I had the guava and sichuan pepper parfait with the passion fruit coulis. This dessert was genius - the sichuan pepper slightly offset the sweetness of the guava and with the tartness of the passion fruit.
the flavours constrasted beautifully.

I would definitely reccommend it for a romantic evening to impress the other half. The waiters were helpful yet not intrusive and i liked the fact that water was provided and so were the little amuse bouche and home made banana bread which were complimentary. Three courses for Â£31 does not break the bank and all in all it sums up one of the best meals i've had in a long time. I can't wait to come back to taste the other dishes.

Shunt Vaults - creepy/cool... by CityCat

CityCat — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 18:33:51 +0000

Review by CityCat

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7378 7776

Website: http://www.shunt.co.uk/

Tags: underground, cool, friendly

Damp, dark, eerie, low-lit caverns underground London Bridge.. Absolutely loved a recent night here. There were exhibitions set up in some rooms and live music too. It was so much fun to wander round! Can't recommend enough.Damp, dark, eerie, low-lit caverns underground London Bridge.. Absolutely loved a recent night here. There were exhibitions set up in some rooms and live music too. It was so much fun to wander round! Can't recommend enough.

Zizzi - Great food, nice venue by taryneast

taryneast — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 21:27:25 +0000

Review by taryneast

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7367 6100

Website: http://www.zizzi.co.uk

Tags: italian, romantic, takeaway

I was mightily impressed by this place. Good food, nice ambience, attentive, but not intrusive service. Even good prices. We spent a good long time there chatting, and felt great.
Heartily recommend!I was mightily impressed by this place. Good food, nice ambience, attentive, but not intrusive service. Even good prices. We spent a good long time there chatting, and felt great.
Heartily recommend!

Monmouth Coffee Company - Consinstent Performance by tojulius

tojulius — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 14:58:46 +0000

Review by tojulius

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7645 3562

Website: http://www.monmouthcoffee.co.uk/ourshops.htm#theborough

Tags: amazing brew, lively, quick bite

As an Italian coffee freak I trust Monmouth as one of the consistently good coffee places in London. I don't like the attitude of the Borough Market Shop staff, therefore I go to the Monmouth st one.

Although recently it got a bit more moody, it is usually one of the best macchiati in London. I also get the Brazilian beans to use home with my Rancilio and the output is usually fantastic.

If you think of Nero and Costa as your McDonald's, think of Monmouth as your Wholefoods.As an Italian coffee freak I trust Monmouth as one of the consistently good coffee places in London. I don't like the attitude of the Borough Market Shop staff, therefore I go to the Monmouth st one.

Although recently it got a bit more moody, it is usually one of the best macchiati in London. I also get the Brazilian beans to use home with my Rancilio and the output is usually fantastic.

If you think of Nero and Costa as your McDonald's, think of Monmouth as your Wholefoods.

The Real Greak Souvlaki & Bar - Filled the gap but not much else by ilovelucy

ilovelucy — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 10:53:58 +0000

Review by ilovelucy

Rating: 2.00

Phone: 020 7620 0162

Website: http://www.therealgreek.com

Tags: greek, lively, bar

Had lunch at the Real Greek by the river on Bankside yesterday after doing a wine tour at Vinopolis. It is situated at a great location and we managed to get a perfect table outside in the sun.

As I had the tastelondon card (which allows 50% off the food) we went for the most expensive set menu, the Athenian at Â£26. Dishes that stood out for me were the Tiropitakia - filo pastry triangles stuffed with feta cheese - those little parcels were delicious and the grilled squid had great flavour. Service was efficient, friendly and attentive.

My only gripe about The Real Greek meze is that it is certainly overpriced when compared to Dim Sum - which on average costs about Â£2.20 a dish and involves far more skill and effort to make them unlike the dishes in the set menu such as Chips and pitta bread and dip! With the tastlondon card it was certainly good value for two - but you won't catch me paying full price. As a comparison, the day before I had eaten Dim Sum at Dragon Castle where we had 10 plates and tea, service for Â£26 - the same price as the set menu at Real Greek! Dragon Castle wins hands down and you defintiely won't find chips on the menu.Had lunch at the Real Greek by the river on Bankside yesterday after doing a wine tour at Vinopolis. It is situated at a great location and we managed to get a perfect table outside in the sun.

As I had the tastelondon card (which allows 50% off the food) we went for the most expensive set menu, the Athenian at Â£26. Dishes that stood out for me were the Tiropitakia - filo pastry triangles stuffed with feta cheese - those little parcels were delicious and the grilled squid had great flavour. Service was efficient, friendly and attentive.

My only gripe about The Real Greek meze is that it is certainly overpriced when compared to Dim Sum - which on average costs about Â£2.20 a dish and involves far more skill and effort to make them unlike the dishes in the set menu such as Chips and pitta bread and dip! With the tastlondon card it was certainly good value for two - but you won't catch me paying full price. As a comparison, the day before I had eaten Dim Sum at Dragon Castle where we had 10 plates and tea, service for Â£26 - the same price as the set menu at Real Greek! Dragon Castle wins hands down and you defintiely won't find chips on the menu.

Brindisa - Tasty tapas by brenna

brenna — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 17:07:19 +0000

Review by brenna

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7357 8880

Website: http://www.brindisa.com

Tags: spanish, lively, tapas

I like the fact you can't book a table here...I went for lunch today (friday) and we got a table outside, which was lucky.

Great choice of dishes - I LOVE the whole deep fried goats' cheese smothered in orange blossom honey!I like the fact you can't book a table here...I went for lunch today (friday) and we got a table outside, which was lucky.

Great choice of dishes - I LOVE the whole deep fried goats' cheese smothered in orange blossom honey!

Lovage Indian Restaurant & Bar - Deserves to be busier by Bowgreave

Bowgreave — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 10:36:17 +0000

Review by Bowgreave

Rating: 4.00

Tags: indian, good value

This place has recovered from a bad start in our eyes and one thatâ¬"s nothing whatsoever to do with the food and drink.
My wife and I were strolling past as they were fitting it out last year when we got waylaid by the owner and quizzed about our foodie habits. Having recognised our potential as customers (mineâ¬"s vast), he insisted on noting our email address and said he would be inviting us to his opening night party. Hardly the Oscars but we were looking forward to it so you can imagine our disappointment when it didnâ¬"t come off and weâ¬"ve never heard from him to this day. With a slightly less than mature approach to such rejection, we vowed to avoid the place, even though it is just round the corner from our local pub.
Well that resolve finally cracked a few weeks ago when the need for spicy food finally got the better of our so-called principles and we decided to darken their door.
Four visits later is probably testimony both to their food and my love of an Indian, particularly after a visit to the pub.
We havenâ¬"t spent any time in the very chic-looking downstairs bar but we have been well pleased with our meals in the first floor restaurant. A good plate of mixed starters, marinated lamb chops and a curry of some description, all eaten with the really nice mixed breads selection is our usual order, with all the food served together banquet-style.
It isnâ¬"t as expensive as it looks, the bill coming in at around Â£50 with drinks, and they donâ¬"t disappoint. For us, it is the best local Indian, certainly within walking distance, and worth making the effort to visit. Just don't get over-excited if they ask for your email address.
This place has recovered from a bad start in our eyes and one thatâ¬"s nothing whatsoever to do with the food and drink.
My wife and I were strolling past as they were fitting it out last year when we got waylaid by the owner and quizzed about our foodie habits. Having recognised our potential as customers (mineâ¬"s vast), he insisted on noting our email address and said he would be inviting us to his opening night party. Hardly the Oscars but we were looking forward to it so you can imagine our disappointment when it didnâ¬"t come off and weâ¬"ve never heard from him to this day. With a slightly less than mature approach to such rejection, we vowed to avoid the place, even though it is just round the corner from our local pub.
Well that resolve finally cracked a few weeks ago when the need for spicy food finally got the better of our so-called principles and we decided to darken their door.
Four visits later is probably testimony both to their food and my love of an Indian, particularly after a visit to the pub.
We havenâ¬"t spent any time in the very chic-looking downstairs bar but we have been well pleased with our meals in the first floor restaurant. A good plate of mixed starters, marinated lamb chops and a curry of some description, all eaten with the really nice mixed breads selection is our usual order, with all the food served together banquet-style.
It isnâ¬"t as expensive as it looks, the bill coming in at around Â£50 with drinks, and they donâ¬"t disappoint. For us, it is the best local Indian, certainly within walking distance, and worth making the effort to visit. Just don't get over-excited if they ask for your email address.

Masters Super Fish - It's a Chippie....and a decent one by Bowgreave

Bowgreave — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 09:31:50 +0000

Review by Bowgreave

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7928 6924

Tags: seafood, family & home feel, takeaway

Couldn't agree more with the last Northern ex-pat reviewer and there isn't much to add to his comprehensive report.
Both the Masters Special and the cod dinner were well up to scratch and they produced proper mushy peas (sometimes mistaken for guacamole down here). The pickles were good, the onion being particularly sweet, and I believe they're homemade.
Seeing we're down south, we also broke with tradition and ordered starters. Grilled sardines were delicate and the squid (we checked first to see that it was fresh) was so tasty I will have it as a main course next time.
They serve beer and wine too in Chippies down here - good job they hung onto the old autographed 'B' list celeb photos or we might have forgotten where we were. The extras can push the bill up a bit but you can always skip that and take 'em home in your newspaper.
Now if only I could find a decent meat & tatie pie!Couldn't agree more with the last Northern ex-pat reviewer and there isn't much to add to his comprehensive report.
Both the Masters Special and the cod dinner were well up to scratch and they produced proper mushy peas (sometimes mistaken for guacamole down here). The pickles were good, the onion being particularly sweet, and I believe they're homemade.
Seeing we're down south, we also broke with tradition and ordered starters. Grilled sardines were delicate and the squid (we checked first to see that it was fresh) was so tasty I will have it as a main course next time.
They serve beer and wine too in Chippies down here - good job they hung onto the old autographed 'B' list celeb photos or we might have forgotten where we were. The extras can push the bill up a bit but you can always skip that and take 'em home in your newspaper.
Now if only I could find a decent meat & tatie pie!

CONSTANCIA Argentine Grill - Disappointing Newcomer by Bowgreave

Bowgreave — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 12:05:19 +0000

Review by Bowgreave

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7234 0676

Website: www.Constancia.co.uk

Tags: lively

Opening a new restaurant in the immediate vicinity of the excellent competition from those of Bermondsey Street and Butlers Wharf has to be a brave decision, particularly in this climate. Constancia sits neatly between those locations, next to the pelican crossing on Tower Bridge Road.
We tried it after a few drinks a couple of Saturdays ago and fancied a big steak meal (that pre-curry intermediate phase) and my Argentinean experiences elsewhere in Europe led me to put them on a par with the US when it comes to top steaks. Sadly, we were pretty under-whelmed but, faced with such good reviews elsewhere, we had to question whether we had got it wrong and in any case felt it would be unfair to post a critical â¬Üalcohol taintedâ¬" review.
What we perceived as a very average and fairly expensive platter of steaks, sausages and black pudding, topped off with frozen chips, others have found to be carnivore heaven, citing them as the best chips they had tasted. Somebodyâ¬"s got it wrong because the place hasnâ¬"t been open long enough to change to that extent.
Well last night we found ourselves walking past again, heading off to try out the Thai food at The (reopened) Hartleyâ¬¦.and this time we were stone cold sober Your Honour. As we debated whether to give it a second chance, the heavens opened and virtually made the decision for us.
So, what this time? Complimentary warm French bread is served with a kind of flavoured mayonnaise but taken away before the food order arrives at the table. We decided to give the house special, Parrillada Constancia, another go. It is cooked on an attractive grid suspended over burning charcoal in an open kitchen, something that taints your clothes for the evening but heightens the sense of being at a big barbeque. The rib-eye steak was excellent and the sirloin was fine too. The dish of hot bubbling fondue-style Provolone cheese with oregano may be traditional but didnâ¬"t really compliment anything and our bread had long gone. The sausages and black pudding could have come from the local supermarket because there was nothing special or distinctive enough about them to justify shipping charges from Argentina or anywhere else. And yes, the chips are very ordinary frozen ones served either â¬Üau naturalâ¬" or with garlic and parsley mixed in, that come out of a plastic bag in the freezer. You can forgive a pub but not a restaurant costing nearly Â£100 for two with drinks.
The Argentinean wine and beers were good and the staff were really nice but we wonâ¬"t be returning unless there are some pretty major changes. The owners have been expressing some ambitious intentions on the local SE1 Forum, as reflected on their website, but they just havenâ¬"t delivered. You do have to fear for their future because, luckily for us if not them, the nearby competition is so stiff and even the local Gaucho Grill is only a 10 minute walk away.
Opening a new restaurant in the immediate vicinity of the excellent competition from those of Bermondsey Street and Butlers Wharf has to be a brave decision, particularly in this climate. Constancia sits neatly between those locations, next to the pelican crossing on Tower Bridge Road.
We tried it after a few drinks a couple of Saturdays ago and fancied a big steak meal (that pre-curry intermediate phase) and my Argentinean experiences elsewhere in Europe led me to put them on a par with the US when it comes to top steaks. Sadly, we were pretty under-whelmed but, faced with such good reviews elsewhere, we had to question whether we had got it wrong and in any case felt it would be unfair to post a critical â¬Üalcohol taintedâ¬" review.
What we perceived as a very average and fairly expensive platter of steaks, sausages and black pudding, topped off with frozen chips, others have found to be carnivore heaven, citing them as the best chips they had tasted. Somebodyâ¬"s got it wrong because the place hasnâ¬"t been open long enough to change to that extent.
Well last night we found ourselves walking past again, heading off to try out the Thai food at The (reopened) Hartleyâ¬¦.and this time we were stone cold sober Your Honour. As we debated whether to give it a second chance, the heavens opened and virtually made the decision for us.
So, what this time? Complimentary warm French bread is served with a kind of flavoured mayonnaise but taken away before the food order arrives at the table. We decided to give the house special, Parrillada Constancia, another go. It is cooked on an attractive grid suspended over burning charcoal in an open kitchen, something that taints your clothes for the evening but heightens the sense of being at a big barbeque. The rib-eye steak was excellent and the sirloin was fine too. The dish of hot bubbling fondue-style Provolone cheese with oregano may be traditional but didnâ¬"t really compliment anything and our bread had long gone. The sausages and black pudding could have come from the local supermarket because there was nothing special or distinctive enough about them to justify shipping charges from Argentina or anywhere else. And yes, the chips are very ordinary frozen ones served either â¬Üau naturalâ¬" or with garlic and parsley mixed in, that come out of a plastic bag in the freezer. You can forgive a pub but not a restaurant costing nearly Â£100 for two with drinks.
The Argentinean wine and beers were good and the staff were really nice but we wonâ¬"t be returning unless there are some pretty major changes. The owners have been expressing some ambitious intentions on the local SE1 Forum, as reflected on their website, but they just havenâ¬"t delivered. You do have to fear for their future because, luckily for us if not them, the nearby competition is so stiff and even the local Gaucho Grill is only a 10 minute walk away.

Swan at The Globe - Swan at the Globe by moreteavicar

moreteavicar — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 19:46:33 +0000

Review by moreteavicar

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7928 9444

Website: http://www.swanattheglobe.co.uk/

Tags: lively, good value, british

"Tis an ill cook that cannot lick his own fingers"
- William Shakespeare - Romeo and Juliet - act 4, scene 2

Wise words from The Bard, which should be a warning to all cooks to taste, taste, taste as they prepare their worldly delights. A tip which I would commend to the chef at The Swan at The Globe.
The Globe Theatre is the defacto home of Shakespeare, a reconstruction of his original London theatre, located on the Southbank. The Swan is fully integrated into the theatre building but does have a separate entrance. The dÃ©cor was very well put together, dark woods and intricate patterns were combined with plain tables and painted wooden chairs in the bar area. Upstairs, the Brasserie, where we were eating, was a simple design of creams and dark browns, with some interesting flower arrangements scattered about. A large dining table at one end provided the possibility of private dining once the heavy curtains were drawn. The layout was comfortable, and we certainly weren't falling across other diners - not least because there weren't many others; rather surprising for such a prime location. The Swan, as our hostess explained, has a busy sitting before the evening performance at the theatre after which the Brasserie closes in order to re-lay tables. J and myself were invited to take a drink at the bar.
The menu is small, providing about 7 dishes per course, and all seem reasonably priced. Large menu selections fill me with dread and suspicion: large menus seldom provide fresh, quality produce.
So to the food:
J opened with potted shrimp, served in an old fashioned clasp fasten jam jar delicately placed on a folded white napkin. Unsure what to do with the napkin, it was swiftly removed. Slight hints of chilli - but ever so slight. My Scallops, with braised lentils and gremolata (the waitress was unsure how to explain what this was - so we only got as far as "it's the sauce that comes with the lentils" - it was clear she didn't know!), were well cooked: tender, juicy and sweet. The lentils were still very much al dente, bit too much for my liking. The common thread for both dishes however was blandness. And here I refer to my opening quotation. Dishes were well constructed and presented and arrived full of promise. But the lack of basic seasoning deflated two otherwise good plates of food. Taste, taste, taste.
J's main course was Elwy Lamb with spring beans and thyme sauce and a side of classic cauliflower cheese. The cauliflower cheese tantalised with a crunchy cheesy top and cauliflower with a bit of a bite. The faintest bit of nutmeg provided a fleeting aftertaste; the sauce a bit thin. The lamb was nicely pink, just as promised.
I had a beautifully baked salmon, still moist, with a topping of crisp skin. The accompanying crushed new potatoes and tomato sauce didn't thrill and let down the fish, but I did eat the lot.
Once again the basics of seasoning was missing, the importance of which I can not understate. And if you're going to use tantalizing seasoning like nutmeg, then let's make sure it really incorporates into the dish, rather than being an afterthought.
Pudding however was another matter and here the chef really excelled. J had a rhubarb pavlova - poached in a ginger syrup and laid on a chewy meringue filled with vanilla infused cream. I had one of the best sticky toffee puddings I've tasted for a long time - moist, sweet, not drowned in sauce. My only criticism is that it wasn't a big enough portion!

Food 3/5 - Season and taste!
Service 3/5 - Attentive, but staff lacking in menu knowledge
Environment 4/5 - Comfortable, "dÃ©cor Elle Decoration would be proud of" says J."Tis an ill cook that cannot lick his own fingers"
- William Shakespeare - Romeo and Juliet - act 4, scene 2

Wise words from The Bard, which should be a warning to all cooks to taste, taste, taste as they prepare their worldly delights. A tip which I would commend to the chef at The Swan at The Globe.
The Globe Theatre is the defacto home of Shakespeare, a reconstruction of his original London theatre, located on the Southbank. The Swan is fully integrated into the theatre building but does have a separate entrance. The dÃ©cor was very well put together, dark woods and intricate patterns were combined with plain tables and painted wooden chairs in the bar area. Upstairs, the Brasserie, where we were eating, was a simple design of creams and dark browns, with some interesting flower arrangements scattered about. A large dining table at one end provided the possibility of private dining once the heavy curtains were drawn. The layout was comfortable, and we certainly weren't falling across other diners - not least because there weren't many others; rather surprising for such a prime location. The Swan, as our hostess explained, has a busy sitting before the evening performance at the theatre after which the Brasserie closes in order to re-lay tables. J and myself were invited to take a drink at the bar.
The menu is small, providing about 7 dishes per course, and all seem reasonably priced. Large menu selections fill me with dread and suspicion: large menus seldom provide fresh, quality produce.
So to the food:
J opened with potted shrimp, served in an old fashioned clasp fasten jam jar delicately placed on a folded white napkin. Unsure what to do with the napkin, it was swiftly removed. Slight hints of chilli - but ever so slight. My Scallops, with braised lentils and gremolata (the waitress was unsure how to explain what this was - so we only got as far as "it's the sauce that comes with the lentils" - it was clear she didn't know!), were well cooked: tender, juicy and sweet. The lentils were still very much al dente, bit too much for my liking. The common thread for both dishes however was blandness. And here I refer to my opening quotation. Dishes were well constructed and presented and arrived full of promise. But the lack of basic seasoning deflated two otherwise good plates of food. Taste, taste, taste.
J's main course was Elwy Lamb with spring beans and thyme sauce and a side of classic cauliflower cheese. The cauliflower cheese tantalised with a crunchy cheesy top and cauliflower with a bit of a bite. The faintest bit of nutmeg provided a fleeting aftertaste; the sauce a bit thin. The lamb was nicely pink, just as promised.
I had a beautifully baked salmon, still moist, with a topping of crisp skin. The accompanying crushed new potatoes and tomato sauce didn't thrill and let down the fish, but I did eat the lot.
Once again the basics of seasoning was missing, the importance of which I can not understate. And if you're going to use tantalizing seasoning like nutmeg, then let's make sure it really incorporates into the dish, rather than being an afterthought.
Pudding however was another matter and here the chef really excelled. J had a rhubarb pavlova - poached in a ginger syrup and laid on a chewy meringue filled with vanilla infused cream. I had one of the best sticky toffee puddings I've tasted for a long time - moist, sweet, not drowned in sauce. My only criticism is that it wasn't a big enough portion!

Food 3/5 - Season and taste!
Service 3/5 - Attentive, but staff lacking in menu knowledge
Environment 4/5 - Comfortable, "dÃ©cor Elle Decoration would be proud of" says J.

Union Theatre - Excellent things come in small packages by foxie

foxie — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 12:18:59 +0000

Review by foxie

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7261 9876

Website: http://www.uniontheatre.freeserve.co.uk

Tags: rare finds, bargain, musical theatre

We were here last night (21 July) for their all-male cast of Pirates of Penzance, and this theatre is quickly becoming one of my favourates. The place is small (about 50 seats), but they have no pretensions and use what they have very well - that is to say minimally, which really lets their talented casts shine. If you enjoy musical theatre and are getting a bit bored with all the standards in the West End, come down to this place and enjoy a step back to what good musical theatre is all about. Imaginative staging, fantastic talent and a sense of fun. For Â£15 per ticket, you are more than getting your money's worth!We were here last night (21 July) for their all-male cast of Pirates of Penzance, and this theatre is quickly becoming one of my favourates. The place is small (about 50 seats), but they have no pretensions and use what they have very well - that is to say minimally, which really lets their talented casts shine. If you enjoy musical theatre and are getting a bit bored with all the standards in the West End, come down to this place and enjoy a step back to what good musical theatre is all about. Imaginative staging, fantastic talent and a sense of fun. For Â£15 per ticket, you are more than getting your money's worth!

Meson Don Felipe - Tasty and Well-Priced Local Gem by foxie

foxie — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 12:04:44 +0000

Review by foxie

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7928 3237

Tags: spanish, lively, crowded

We popped in here on a whim before a show at the Union Theatre last night and were very pleased with the experience. Walking in, the first surprise was that the place was almost completely full at 6pm and almost all the rest were reserved starting at 19:30. Since we had tickets, the time limit didn't bother us, but if you want a more lingering experience, best to book in advance it seems. Tables were typically close together, but with enough room that the waitstaff could get to everyone without invading the space of the other diners too much.

The wine list was the second surprise - well priced and really broad with several regions we had never heard of before. We settled on a Jumillo which went really well with the food with a nicy peppery character and good weight.

One of our party was a pescatarian (like a vegetarian only eats fish), and we found plenty to satisfy both her and the other omnivores. Strict vegetarians might have difficulty though, since options without both fish and/or pork were hard to come by.

For us though, we had plenty to eat and ordered (sorry for not remembering the Spanish names!) the spinach with pine-nuts and raisins, aubergines and peppers in a delightful tomato sauce, beans with ham and mint, mixed mushrooms in garlic and olive oil, a classic tortilla, and one other dish I can't remember. All were well cooked and not too oily (a problem we've noticed in other tapas restaurants) and very well flavoured. The only "disappointment" was the bread, which was just average and obviously mass produced. That's really the only area that could use improvement as everything else we had was very good

Service was relaxed and easy going, yet polite and quick to respond. I was very impressed with the manager/owner working alongside his employees, keeping tabs that things were moving smoothly. A touch you don't see often anymore.

Overall, a great meal for a great price (less than Â£50 for three including wine and service) which will have us back as soon as we are in the area again, only next time we'll book a table in advance.We popped in here on a whim before a show at the Union Theatre last night and were very pleased with the experience. Walking in, the first surprise was that the place was almost completely full at 6pm and almost all the rest were reserved starting at 19:30. Since we had tickets, the time limit didn't bother us, but if you want a more lingering experience, best to book in advance it seems. Tables were typically close together, but with enough room that the waitstaff could get to everyone without invading the space of the other diners too much.

The wine list was the second surprise - well priced and really broad with several regions we had never heard of before. We settled on a Jumillo which went really well with the food with a nicy peppery character and good weight.

One of our party was a pescatarian (like a vegetarian only eats fish), and we found plenty to satisfy both her and the other omnivores. Strict vegetarians might have difficulty though, since options without both fish and/or pork were hard to come by.

For us though, we had plenty to eat and ordered (sorry for not remembering the Spanish names!) the spinach with pine-nuts and raisins, aubergines and peppers in a delightful tomato sauce, beans with ham and mint, mixed mushrooms in garlic and olive oil, a classic tortilla, and one other dish I can't remember. All were well cooked and not too oily (a problem we've noticed in other tapas restaurants) and very well flavoured. The only "disappointment" was the bread, which was just average and obviously mass produced. That's really the only area that could use improvement as everything else we had was very good

Service was relaxed and easy going, yet polite and quick to respond. I was very impressed with the manager/owner working alongside his employees, keeping tabs that things were moving smoothly. A touch you don't see often anymore.

Overall, a great meal for a great price (less than Â£50 for three including wine and service) which will have us back as soon as we are in the area again, only next time we'll book a table in advance.

Joe's Kitchen - Joe's kitchen...NEVER AGAIN by Melissa123

Melissa123 — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 14:16:43 +0000

Review by Melissa123

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 7939 1490

I wouldn't stand in the doorway to get out of the rain.

I went here yesterday...

I pointed out to the waiter that Â£8 for a salad is quite a bit when you get the plate and half of the ingredients are not ripe (and small slithers at that). His answer?

'We've been having some problems with the avocados in the kitchen'

- my response was that if you donâ¬"t have the ingredients at an edible standard then you shouldn't serve the food.

He rudely walks off muttering - I'll pass on your complaint.

No mention of a discount (even though half of the dish was not edible) - no manager in sight.

I paid Â£8 for a bowl of spinach.

He then took about 10 minutes to bring us our change- at which point we were determined that he was not going to be taking a penny in tips.I wouldn't stand in the doorway to get out of the rain.

I went here yesterday...

I pointed out to the waiter that Â£8 for a salad is quite a bit when you get the plate and half of the ingredients are not ripe (and small slithers at that). His answer?

'We've been having some problems with the avocados in the kitchen'

- my response was that if you donâ¬"t have the ingredients at an edible standard then you shouldn't serve the food.

He rudely walks off muttering - I'll pass on your complaint.

No mention of a discount (even though half of the dish was not edible) - no manager in sight.

I paid Â£8 for a bowl of spinach.

He then took about 10 minutes to bring us our change- at which point we were determined that he was not going to be taking a penny in tips.