Latest reviews in Hoxton, London, United Kingdom

Strada - Excellent good value food by hellyphant

hellyphant — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 15:33:12 +0000

Review by hellyphant

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7226 9742

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

I've been to Strada in Islington several times and have never left disappointed. They serve a variety of pasta dishes and pizzas and a great selection of fish. I ate a baby octupus for the first time in Strada!
The food arrived very quickly and was lovely and hot, portions were perfectly sized and left me feeling satisfied, rather than bloated, and with enough space for that all important desert.
Although they don't have an amazing selection, what they do serve is delicious. I can recommend the hot chocolate cake with vanilla icecream. Divine!I've been to Strada in Islington several times and have never left disappointed. They serve a variety of pasta dishes and pizzas and a great selection of fish. I ate a baby octupus for the first time in Strada!
The food arrived very quickly and was lovely and hot, portions were perfectly sized and left me feeling satisfied, rather than bloated, and with enough space for that all important desert.
Although they don't have an amazing selection, what they do serve is delicious. I can recommend the hot chocolate cake with vanilla icecream. Divine!

The Angel - fine by abcjess

abcjess — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:13:23 +0000

Review by abcjess

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7837 2218

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

Tags: live music, food, relaxed

Although itâ¬"s a J.D. Wetherspoons chain pub, it does have a rustic and less modern feel than most. Its warm and earthy and the staff are always friendly and precise. The food is standard good pub food, the prices are slightly cheaper than the Wetherspoons further into the centre of London so itâ¬"s also a mini bargain. The food came quickly even though it was quite crowded. The outside area is very narrow and falling into the busy (and also narrow) pavement is hard to avoid, especially when theres a lot of smokers about.

But a thoroughly nice but average pub. Its got a good vibe and I would happily go there for drinks after work.
Although itâ¬"s a J.D. Wetherspoons chain pub, it does have a rustic and less modern feel than most. Its warm and earthy and the staff are always friendly and precise. The food is standard good pub food, the prices are slightly cheaper than the Wetherspoons further into the centre of London so itâ¬"s also a mini bargain. The food came quickly even though it was quite crowded. The outside area is very narrow and falling into the busy (and also narrow) pavement is hard to avoid, especially when theres a lot of smokers about.

But a thoroughly nice but average pub. Its got a good vibe and I would happily go there for drinks after work.

American Apparel - great prices by Artemidor

Artemidor — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 17:45:33 +0000

Review by Artemidor

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7012 1112

Website: http://store.americanapparel.co.uk/

Tags: bargain

I love this place. I would like to describe their lines.
Woman: generally the most extensive one and is subdivided in many sections where to find from clothes to dress, to the denim... Attention to the basic, always renewed and to very good price.
Man: the footwear is very original. Interior and Bath; simple but hot tokens, always with a sound super amusing, the weavings are very smooth and very comfortable, a little expensive but is worth while because the quality of the intimate clothes is very good. Complements; unimaginable! From umbrella, to suitcases, to belts, to clips for the hair, shoes, caps, is perhaps where they waste more imagination, besides the prices are done more accessible.
Great place to shop.
I love this place. I would like to describe their lines.
Woman: generally the most extensive one and is subdivided in many sections where to find from clothes to dress, to the denim... Attention to the basic, always renewed and to very good price.
Man: the footwear is very original. Interior and Bath; simple but hot tokens, always with a sound super amusing, the weavings are very smooth and very comfortable, a little expensive but is worth while because the quality of the intimate clothes is very good. Complements; unimaginable! From umbrella, to suitcases, to belts, to clips for the hair, shoes, caps, is perhaps where they waste more imagination, besides the prices are done more accessible.
Great place to shop.

Carling Academy - lacking soul by carum

carum — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 22:32:48 +0000

Review by carum

Rating: 2.00

Phone: 020 7288 4400

The academy plays host to loads of great acts such as Franz Ferdinand and kings of Leon and the like. The sound in here just works perfectly and the acoustics are just superb. I have been to loads of great gigs here but every time something always feels just a little wrong. I now know what it is itâ¬"s the setting it just seems wrong to have a concert hall in the middle of a shopping centre and thatâ¬"s whats wrong with places like the millennium dome or the 02. I think London needs more purpose built venues for live music and quickly. Great gigs but no soul.The academy plays host to loads of great acts such as Franz Ferdinand and kings of Leon and the like. The sound in here just works perfectly and the acoustics are just superb. I have been to loads of great gigs here but every time something always feels just a little wrong. I now know what it is itâ¬"s the setting it just seems wrong to have a concert hall in the middle of a shopping centre and thatâ¬"s whats wrong with places like the millennium dome or the 02. I think London needs more purpose built venues for live music and quickly. Great gigs but no soul.

Sangria - Mediocre by alisonelm

alisonelm — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:47:14 +0000

Review by alisonelm

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 7704 5253

Tags: spanish, good value, crowded

I went to Sangria for a friend's birthday and had read some pretty awful reviews so I wasn't expecting great things which is good as it's pretty mediocre and certainly lived up to its poor reputation.

The food itself was ok-but nothing out of the ordinary. Some dishes were bland, some dripping in oil, some lukewarm and some just nothingy. The paella they served was possibly the most tasteless thing I've ever eaten. There was just no point to eating it.

However, the food was the good part of the experience! The staff were woefully disinterested in actually waiting on their tables. It took me 6 requests to get a glass of lemonade, including my walking to the bar where the barman refused to pour it for me as my waiter had not asked him to. I then asked the waiter again and he blamed the barman. They said they would leave if off the bill and then didn't. Of course.

Service was haphazard, slow and at times rude.

There are many many restaurants I would far rather go to again than this one. Avoid at all cost.I went to Sangria for a friend's birthday and had read some pretty awful reviews so I wasn't expecting great things which is good as it's pretty mediocre and certainly lived up to its poor reputation.

The food itself was ok-but nothing out of the ordinary. Some dishes were bland, some dripping in oil, some lukewarm and some just nothingy. The paella they served was possibly the most tasteless thing I've ever eaten. There was just no point to eating it.

However, the food was the good part of the experience! The staff were woefully disinterested in actually waiting on their tables. It took me 6 requests to get a glass of lemonade, including my walking to the bar where the barman refused to pour it for me as my waiter had not asked him to. I then asked the waiter again and he blamed the barman. They said they would leave if off the bill and then didn't. Of course.

Service was haphazard, slow and at times rude.

There are many many restaurants I would far rather go to again than this one. Avoid at all cost.

Union Chapel - by FallenAngel

FallenAngel — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 16:34:51 +0000

Review by FallenAngel

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7226 1686

Website: http://www.unionchapel.org.uk

A stone's throw from the joys of Upper Street and walking distance from Highbury and Islington Tube, this magical venue is made for music performance. Usually acoustic acts or indie bands, the acoustics lend themselves perfectly to such music.

The building itself is breathtakingly beautiful and the round set up of the seating contributes to an intimate feel. The staff are very friendly and helpful.

There is wheelchair access (although the ramp the bring out is fairly precarious) and an accessible loo. The bar is upstairs however and offically alcohol isnt allowed in the auditorium (it being a church and all that) so you're a bit stuck if you can't get up the stairs. As with all churches, the pews arent all that comfy so take a cushion. Despite these small grumbles, a great venue with brilliant music. Oh and if you forget your tickets (guilty)- don't worry there's always a list at the door.A stone's throw from the joys of Upper Street and walking distance from Highbury and Islington Tube, this magical venue is made for music performance. Usually acoustic acts or indie bands, the acoustics lend themselves perfectly to such music.

The building itself is breathtakingly beautiful and the round set up of the seating contributes to an intimate feel. The staff are very friendly and helpful.

There is wheelchair access (although the ramp the bring out is fairly precarious) and an accessible loo. The bar is upstairs however and offically alcohol isnt allowed in the auditorium (it being a church and all that) so you're a bit stuck if you can't get up the stairs. As with all churches, the pews arent all that comfy so take a cushion. Despite these small grumbles, a great venue with brilliant music. Oh and if you forget your tickets (guilty)- don't worry there's always a list at the door.

Masala Zone - yummy food by beckyfox

beckyfox — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 14:42:07 +0000

Review by beckyfox

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7359 3399

Website: http://www.realindianfood.com

Tags: indian, lively, good value

Great food. Good value for money. If you eat before 6 or 7 you can get 2 courses for 8 pounds bargain!! Best dish is a thali as you get a bit of everything!Great food. Good value for money. If you eat before 6 or 7 you can get 2 courses for 8 pounds bargain!! Best dish is a thali as you get a bit of everything!

Fifteen - Fifteen by Roberteggers

Roberteggers — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 14:04:43 +0000

Review by Roberteggers

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 0871 330 1515

Website: http://www.fifteenrestaurant.com

Tags: expensive, italian, lively

We had been given some gift vouchers for Fifteen we had just enough voucher for 2 tasting menus without wine.

We had to book about a month ahead for a table on a Sunday night. We were really looking forward to it by the time the reservation came around.

The restaurant itself is not in the best areas of London but is simple enough to find from the tube station. The building itself is great looking and is of a really modern design inside. We were greeted at the door and shown into the small bar area to wait for our table.

There is a really great selection of drinks at the bar I think we had a ginger press and a vanilla lemonade both were delicious. It wasnâ¬"t long before we were led to our table. The restaurant is split into upstairs and down we were seated downstairs for dinner.

The waitress that looked after us was very, very knowledgeable and as each course was served she explained in detail the structure of the dish and the location of the ingredients, all very impressive.

The food was magnificent, each course was so tasty and just the right size.

The atmosphere was laid back and informal and the dinning experience was of a very high standard.

A great place to go to treat yourself or someone else.We had been given some gift vouchers for Fifteen we had just enough voucher for 2 tasting menus without wine.

We had to book about a month ahead for a table on a Sunday night. We were really looking forward to it by the time the reservation came around.

The restaurant itself is not in the best areas of London but is simple enough to find from the tube station. The building itself is great looking and is of a really modern design inside. We were greeted at the door and shown into the small bar area to wait for our table.

There is a really great selection of drinks at the bar I think we had a ginger press and a vanilla lemonade both were delicious. It wasnâ¬"t long before we were led to our table. The restaurant is split into upstairs and down we were seated downstairs for dinner.

The waitress that looked after us was very, very knowledgeable and as each course was served she explained in detail the structure of the dish and the location of the ingredients, all very impressive.

The food was magnificent, each course was so tasty and just the right size.

The atmosphere was laid back and informal and the dinning experience was of a very high standard.

A great place to go to treat yourself or someone else.

Duke of Cambridge - Solid organic gastropub fare by Niamheen

Niamheen — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:28:00 +0000

Review by Niamheen

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7359 3066

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

Tags: independent pub, gastro pub, expensive

The Duke of Cambridge has been local to my workplace, for, oh, 5 years now. It's a bit far for lunch, however, and after work and at weekends I like to go somewhere different to the area I've been prowling 9-5 Monday to Friday!

I was hearing good things though and really wanted to try it so I called on a Friday evening to book a table for lunchtime the next day. They said that only one table was booked, so we shouldnâ¬"t worry, but as I was on the phone I thought that I might as well just book a table. Iâ¬"m glad I did as when we got there for lunch on Saturday it was packed.

Situated on St Peter St, just off Essex Rd in Islington, the Duke of Cambridge is set on a street corner, with lots of windows looking into quite a nice looking refurbished pub. Our table was towards the back by the open kitchen, in a conservatory.

For those of you that donâ¬"t know of it, the Duke of Cambridge was Britainâ¬"s first organic gastropub. It has been brought to my attention a number of times, most recently in the Oberver Food Monthly Eco Awards, with Geetie Singh reaching number 16 on their top 40 list. It has also been listed on the Best Sunday Lunch OFM lists twice. Itâ¬"s had positive reviews in far too many places for me to list here and maintain your interest!

They use seasonal, fresh, local and organic ingredients, and most foods, from bread to ice cream are made on the premises. The menu changes twice daily and is determined by what the supplier delivers. They have an ethical fish policy, farmed salmon and trout is organic, wild fish is caught off the coast of Britain - on the South and South East coasts where possible to minimise food miles and they only purchase fish caught using sustainable fishing methods. In addition to this fish is purchased seasonally and outside of breeding seasons. Their policy is approved by the Marine Conservation Society.

Once seated, we were given some menus and some water. Service was prompt and polite, we ordered from the menu on the blackboard on the wall. I chose the yellow split pea and coconut curry and my dining companions chose the chickpea and spinach cake with roast butternut squash, greens and mushroom sauce, and the pan fried sardines with puy lentils. Two of us had wine by the glass, it was only lunchtime after all!

I couldnâ¬"t criticise the food, it's good gastropub fare, and I tried all the dishes. It was all cooked with great care and clearly with the best of ingredients. The presentation was rustic and inviting, I couldnâ¬"t wait to tuck in. The curry was delicate and light, and contrasted with some sour onions and yoghurt with delicious leaves, really lovely. The chickpea and spinach cake sounded like it might be heavy, but not atall, it was rich and flavoursome, and very moreish, which can be a problem if itâ¬"s not your dish! The sardines, I am told were delicious. We finished our meal with coffee served in a moka with some hot milk and chocolate cake for my friends 2 year old daughter. She allowed me a taste, well, she wasnâ¬"t looking if I am honest! It was rich and dark, and she really enjoyed it, as the couple at the table next to us commented!

The main courses are priced on average between Â£11 - Â£15, starters and desserts at about Â£6. Itâ¬"s worth every penny.The Duke of Cambridge has been local to my workplace, for, oh, 5 years now. It's a bit far for lunch, however, and after work and at weekends I like to go somewhere different to the area I've been prowling 9-5 Monday to Friday!

I was hearing good things though and really wanted to try it so I called on a Friday evening to book a table for lunchtime the next day. They said that only one table was booked, so we shouldnâ¬"t worry, but as I was on the phone I thought that I might as well just book a table. Iâ¬"m glad I did as when we got there for lunch on Saturday it was packed.

Situated on St Peter St, just off Essex Rd in Islington, the Duke of Cambridge is set on a street corner, with lots of windows looking into quite a nice looking refurbished pub. Our table was towards the back by the open kitchen, in a conservatory.

For those of you that donâ¬"t know of it, the Duke of Cambridge was Britainâ¬"s first organic gastropub. It has been brought to my attention a number of times, most recently in the Oberver Food Monthly Eco Awards, with Geetie Singh reaching number 16 on their top 40 list. It has also been listed on the Best Sunday Lunch OFM lists twice. Itâ¬"s had positive reviews in far too many places for me to list here and maintain your interest!

They use seasonal, fresh, local and organic ingredients, and most foods, from bread to ice cream are made on the premises. The menu changes twice daily and is determined by what the supplier delivers. They have an ethical fish policy, farmed salmon and trout is organic, wild fish is caught off the coast of Britain - on the South and South East coasts where possible to minimise food miles and they only purchase fish caught using sustainable fishing methods. In addition to this fish is purchased seasonally and outside of breeding seasons. Their policy is approved by the Marine Conservation Society.

Once seated, we were given some menus and some water. Service was prompt and polite, we ordered from the menu on the blackboard on the wall. I chose the yellow split pea and coconut curry and my dining companions chose the chickpea and spinach cake with roast butternut squash, greens and mushroom sauce, and the pan fried sardines with puy lentils. Two of us had wine by the glass, it was only lunchtime after all!

I couldnâ¬"t criticise the food, it's good gastropub fare, and I tried all the dishes. It was all cooked with great care and clearly with the best of ingredients. The presentation was rustic and inviting, I couldnâ¬"t wait to tuck in. The curry was delicate and light, and contrasted with some sour onions and yoghurt with delicious leaves, really lovely. The chickpea and spinach cake sounded like it might be heavy, but not atall, it was rich and flavoursome, and very moreish, which can be a problem if itâ¬"s not your dish! The sardines, I am told were delicious. We finished our meal with coffee served in a moka with some hot milk and chocolate cake for my friends 2 year old daughter. She allowed me a taste, well, she wasnâ¬"t looking if I am honest! It was rich and dark, and she really enjoyed it, as the couple at the table next to us commented!

The main courses are priced on average between Â£11 - Â£15, starters and desserts at about Â£6. Itâ¬"s worth every penny.

Bacchus Pub and Kitchen - Brand-new, Bargainous and Brilliant by chrisp

chrisp — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 11:34:03 +0000

Review by chrisp

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7613 0477

Website: http://www.bacchus-restaurant.co.uk

Tags: cool, trendy, relaxed

My, how time flies. I can hardly believe it was all the way back in March last year that I visited Bacchus, the experimental molecular-gastronomy restaurant housed in a refurbished pub in Hoxton. I had a spectacular, challenging meal, served by intentive and intelligent waiting staff and spent the next 18 months vowing to return soon. I never did.

The reason I never made a repeat visit was, of course, location, location, location. As a Battersea resident, for the time and effort required to make a return trip to Hoxton you might as well go for a meal on the Moon. But unfortunately that wasn't the only thing putting me off - you must believe me when I say there are very few areas of the country I consider to be obstacles in the way of decent grub; I spent the first 22 years of my life in Liverpool, after all. But after our lovely meal at Bacchus we spent much of the remainder of the evening at a friend's flat two doors down watching two people beat up each other (and various unlucky parked vehicles) with iron bars. I got a taxi home, and my friends have sinced moved to Stoke Newington.

Now, finally succumbing to market forces and the fact that a large majority of the fine-dining crowd do not consider carrying a bullet-proof vest and tazer to be the hallmarks of a relaxing evening out, Bacchus has relaunched as Bacchus Bar & Kitchen, and swapped foams for gravy, sous-vide for shepherd's pie, and Nuno Mendes (visionary gastronaut) for Richard Tewnion, formally of the Pig's Ear in Chelsea.

At first glance, little seemed to have changed inside Bacchus. It was, after all, a fairly relaxed space already as fine-dining rooms go, and with the addition of a couple of trendily battered sofas and a more accessible bar area, it now has completed an easy transition to a gastropub. The menu was pleasing in its Britishness - crab on toast, pea and mint risotto, sea bream and spinach - all tempting stuff. My first course was a rabbit terrine.

The generously portioned terrine was rich and hearty, shot through with just enough summer veg and sprinkled with salt to give it that extra burst of flavour. I wasn't hugely enamoured of the accompanying picallili (rather under-vinegared and slightly on the sweet side) but given that this was made in house I am willing to give them time to improve on the formula. This was a very successful dish and worthy of any top gastropub in the city.

Next was "chicken breast, potato fondant and cepes", and the first thing to grab my attention was a heady note of alcohol rising up from the plate. The chicken was attractively sliced and with a nice crispy skin, and the mushrooms weren't overpowered by the stock and alcoholic (possibly sherry) sauce. Although not a fondant as I would know one, the potato was well seasoned and arranged in a sort of mini-gratin beneath the chicken.

The best was yet to come - the bill, which was an astonishing Â£10 each. Given that these were two substantial and satisfying courses, we just didn't have room for dessert, but if we had they would have cost us an extra Â£3. We were even offered tea & coffee on the house, which we politely declined in a rush to get back to the office before our lunch hour was up. An extraordinary bargain - and I'm told one that probably won't last too long - so it's up to you to make the most of it while it lasts. Even if Bacchus hadn't been the lunch bargain of the century I would have still had a very good meal; at Â£10 a head this is unbeatable.

A trend has been developing over the last few months; it seems the less I spend on a meal the better it turns out to be. Of course I want everyone that can to go to Bacchus and have the best food you can get for the money in north London, but that was true of the old Bacchus as well. Whether their revamp will start attracting punters to the badlands of Hoxton remains to be seen - what is very clear even at this stage, is that if you do make the effort, the rewards are immense.My, how time flies. I can hardly believe it was all the way back in March last year that I visited Bacchus, the experimental molecular-gastronomy restaurant housed in a refurbished pub in Hoxton. I had a spectacular, challenging meal, served by intentive and intelligent waiting staff and spent the next 18 months vowing to return soon. I never did.

The reason I never made a repeat visit was, of course, location, location, location. As a Battersea resident, for the time and effort required to make a return trip to Hoxton you might as well go for a meal on the Moon. But unfortunately that wasn't the only thing putting me off - you must believe me when I say there are very few areas of the country I consider to be obstacles in the way of decent grub; I spent the first 22 years of my life in Liverpool, after all. But after our lovely meal at Bacchus we spent much of the remainder of the evening at a friend's flat two doors down watching two people beat up each other (and various unlucky parked vehicles) with iron bars. I got a taxi home, and my friends have sinced moved to Stoke Newington.

Now, finally succumbing to market forces and the fact that a large majority of the fine-dining crowd do not consider carrying a bullet-proof vest and tazer to be the hallmarks of a relaxing evening out, Bacchus has relaunched as Bacchus Bar & Kitchen, and swapped foams for gravy, sous-vide for shepherd's pie, and Nuno Mendes (visionary gastronaut) for Richard Tewnion, formally of the Pig's Ear in Chelsea.

At first glance, little seemed to have changed inside Bacchus. It was, after all, a fairly relaxed space already as fine-dining rooms go, and with the addition of a couple of trendily battered sofas and a more accessible bar area, it now has completed an easy transition to a gastropub. The menu was pleasing in its Britishness - crab on toast, pea and mint risotto, sea bream and spinach - all tempting stuff. My first course was a rabbit terrine.

The generously portioned terrine was rich and hearty, shot through with just enough summer veg and sprinkled with salt to give it that extra burst of flavour. I wasn't hugely enamoured of the accompanying picallili (rather under-vinegared and slightly on the sweet side) but given that this was made in house I am willing to give them time to improve on the formula. This was a very successful dish and worthy of any top gastropub in the city.

Next was "chicken breast, potato fondant and cepes", and the first thing to grab my attention was a heady note of alcohol rising up from the plate. The chicken was attractively sliced and with a nice crispy skin, and the mushrooms weren't overpowered by the stock and alcoholic (possibly sherry) sauce. Although not a fondant as I would know one, the potato was well seasoned and arranged in a sort of mini-gratin beneath the chicken.

The best was yet to come - the bill, which was an astonishing Â£10 each. Given that these were two substantial and satisfying courses, we just didn't have room for dessert, but if we had they would have cost us an extra Â£3. We were even offered tea & coffee on the house, which we politely declined in a rush to get back to the office before our lunch hour was up. An extraordinary bargain - and I'm told one that probably won't last too long - so it's up to you to make the most of it while it lasts. Even if Bacchus hadn't been the lunch bargain of the century I would have still had a very good meal; at Â£10 a head this is unbeatable.

A trend has been developing over the last few months; it seems the less I spend on a meal the better it turns out to be. Of course I want everyone that can to go to Bacchus and have the best food you can get for the money in north London, but that was true of the old Bacchus as well. Whether their revamp will start attracting punters to the badlands of Hoxton remains to be seen - what is very clear even at this stage, is that if you do make the effort, the rewards are immense.

The New Rose - Deservedly popular local by niamh49

niamh49 — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:52:59 +0000

Review by niamh49

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7226 1082

Website: http://newrose.co.uk/

Tags: real ale, relaxed, great food

A few years ago this was a grotty old men's pub, albeit with rather nice green tiled exterior - the sort of pub that closes by the dozen every month.
Now, with a judicious overhaul, it's been transformed into a buzzing and trendy young hangout, featuring loads of music, djs, decently priced grub, and is always buzy.

This pub deserves to be popular because of the way the original features have been preserved and enhanced. Yes it's good wooden floors and comfy leather seats (everyone likes these). But it has bags of character - check out the stained glass in the women's loos, and joy of joys, a real fire.
This is a pub to enjoy a quiet pint in by day, and have a fun time out at night.
A few years ago this was a grotty old men's pub, albeit with rather nice green tiled exterior - the sort of pub that closes by the dozen every month.
Now, with a judicious overhaul, it's been transformed into a buzzing and trendy young hangout, featuring loads of music, djs, decently priced grub, and is always buzy.

This pub deserves to be popular because of the way the original features have been preserved and enhanced. Yes it's good wooden floors and comfy leather seats (everyone likes these). But it has bags of character - check out the stained glass in the women's loos, and joy of joys, a real fire.
This is a pub to enjoy a quiet pint in by day, and have a fun time out at night.

Cuba Libre & Bar Havana - Tantalising tapas! by izolda

izolda — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:10:02 +0000

Review by izolda

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7354 9998

Tags: lively, spanish, restaurant

This is a great place to have a drink and a bite to eat with friends if you're lucky enough to get a table! The place is very popular with young people due to the excellent tapas on offer and the great cocktails which can be ordered in an affordable jug which will keep 4-5 people happy. There is a wide selection of yummy tapas to choose from and they are very reasonably priced. However go before 10pm because they stop serving them after that time. Vibe of the place is laid back and relaxed, and the decoration is ethnic, bright, funky and inviting. Great for a nice evening out with friends.This is a great place to have a drink and a bite to eat with friends if you're lucky enough to get a table! The place is very popular with young people due to the excellent tapas on offer and the great cocktails which can be ordered in an affordable jug which will keep 4-5 people happy. There is a wide selection of yummy tapas to choose from and they are very reasonably priced. However go before 10pm because they stop serving them after that time. Vibe of the place is laid back and relaxed, and the decoration is ethnic, bright, funky and inviting. Great for a nice evening out with friends.

Indian Veg Bhelpoori House - delicious, cheap, and healthy (don't eat too much) by marmalade

marmalade — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 13:28:36 +0000

Review by marmalade

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7833 1167

Tags: indian, vegetarian, cheap eat

This restaurant is fantastic.

I was taken here by some friends about 10 years ago, and couldn't quite believe just how inexpensive it was.

It's a buffet set-up, with delicious vegetarian dishes, with potato, lentils, all sorts of beautifully cooked veg curries, and yummy samosas and poppadums on the side.

The place itself is very unusual, with low key decor and very functional seating etc, all topped off with the amazing posters of Indian beauty queens.

These posters show how beautiful it's possible to be when you eat veggie food, and are really entertaining propaganda.

There is a full drinks menu, with treats like lassi and exotic juices, and it's all good value for money.

It's also pretty healthy, if you avoid the fried treats which are crunchy and delicious. The curries are really mild, and are full of turmeric and other spices, famed now for their cancer-busting properties.

This food probably will make you beautiful, and may extend your life as well!This restaurant is fantastic.

I was taken here by some friends about 10 years ago, and couldn't quite believe just how inexpensive it was.

It's a buffet set-up, with delicious vegetarian dishes, with potato, lentils, all sorts of beautifully cooked veg curries, and yummy samosas and poppadums on the side.

The place itself is very unusual, with low key decor and very functional seating etc, all topped off with the amazing posters of Indian beauty queens.

These posters show how beautiful it's possible to be when you eat veggie food, and are really entertaining propaganda.

There is a full drinks menu, with treats like lassi and exotic juices, and it's all good value for money.

It's also pretty healthy, if you avoid the fried treats which are crunchy and delicious. The curries are really mild, and are full of turmeric and other spices, famed now for their cancer-busting properties.

This food probably will make you beautiful, and may extend your life as well!

McDonald's Restaurant - McDonald's by jellybeans

jellybeans — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 19:35:58 +0000

Review by jellybeans

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 0870 241 3300

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

Tags: seating area, childrens parties, vegetarian dishes

This small McDonalds is in Angel but off to one side. It's not a big one but is situated a little out of the way and if you are passing or fancy some takeaway then this is one place to definitely consider. It is however clean and comfortable and a nice place to visit.

As it is clean and functional, it is also not always busy so getting a seat should not be a problem and if you want to use facilities nearby, it all just a short walk away, from the shops, the cinema, or just needing to travel through the main road for a bus or get to Angel tube station.This small McDonalds is in Angel but off to one side. It's not a big one but is situated a little out of the way and if you are passing or fancy some takeaway then this is one place to definitely consider. It is however clean and comfortable and a nice place to visit.

As it is clean and functional, it is also not always busy so getting a seat should not be a problem and if you want to use facilities nearby, it all just a short walk away, from the shops, the cinema, or just needing to travel through the main road for a bus or get to Angel tube station.

Fig & Olive - Delightful by LOVEANDKATE

LOVEANDKATE — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 21:29:23 +0000

Review by LOVEANDKATE

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7354 2605

Tags: romantic, good value, brasserie

I've never actually eaten dinner here but i do often pop in for coffee and cake in the evening if i'm out at the weekend but not partying.

The selection is fantastic and you can choose from a fresh cake counter! Last night I shared a pistachio tart and a lemon and cherry pie. Both with subtle flavours and were rich and delightful. I beleive they were Â£3.50 each which i think is very reasonable for the surroundings.

Coffee here is excellent and very strong.

restaurant is clean and dimly lit. The appearance is quite modern and fresh and the main courses always smell beautiful.

I should really go back and have dinner then review the place again but I can't see how it would dissapoint!I've never actually eaten dinner here but i do often pop in for coffee and cake in the evening if i'm out at the weekend but not partying.

The selection is fantastic and you can choose from a fresh cake counter! Last night I shared a pistachio tart and a lemon and cherry pie. Both with subtle flavours and were rich and delightful. I beleive they were Â£3.50 each which i think is very reasonable for the surroundings.

Coffee here is excellent and very strong.

restaurant is clean and dimly lit. The appearance is quite modern and fresh and the main courses always smell beautiful.

I should really go back and have dinner then review the place again but I can't see how it would dissapoint!

Le Mercury - FRIENDLY FRENCH RESTAURANT by LOVEANDKATE

LOVEANDKATE — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 19:34:38 +0000

Review by LOVEANDKATE

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7354 4088

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

Tags: french, romantic, good value

My friend and i ended up on Upper Street last night and as I always do when I'm in Angel, started browsing menus for food. I've been to most eateries in Angel so we decided to try something new.

We passed Le Mercury and decided to go in due to its cheap menu
Starters Â£3.95 and Mains Â£6.95 which is incredibly reasonable for the area.

i must admit, I was a bit scepticle at first- it was either going to be hit or miss. It also appeared to be rather busy and I wasnt sure we'd get a table.

However, like others have mentioned in previous reviews its not just an intimate restaurant crammed full of tables on the ground floor-theres 3 floors of crammed intimate restaurant space!!!!!, it just goes up and up and up rickety wooden stairs.

and yes, very dim candle lit, romantic and even though you're squished in we didnt notice or were aware of others sat around us. No idiots shouting or mis behaving. Infact the crowd was totally mixed- from 18 - 80.

The service staff were lovely and cracked jokes continuously, especially when I ashamedly asked for ketchup for my steak and chips [!!!!!]

We ordered a bottle of wine priced a couple of quid above the house and it was delightful.

food was not outstanding but very pleasant for the price and just the right amount so that you can actually eat both starter and main.

They also gave us enough time to rest inbetween courses and we ended up spending 3 hours in there.

I'd definitely go back- love the rustic and authenticity of the place.

My friend and i ended up on Upper Street last night and as I always do when I'm in Angel, started browsing menus for food. I've been to most eateries in Angel so we decided to try something new.

We passed Le Mercury and decided to go in due to its cheap menu
Starters Â£3.95 and Mains Â£6.95 which is incredibly reasonable for the area.

i must admit, I was a bit scepticle at first- it was either going to be hit or miss. It also appeared to be rather busy and I wasnt sure we'd get a table.

However, like others have mentioned in previous reviews its not just an intimate restaurant crammed full of tables on the ground floor-theres 3 floors of crammed intimate restaurant space!!!!!, it just goes up and up and up rickety wooden stairs.

and yes, very dim candle lit, romantic and even though you're squished in we didnt notice or were aware of others sat around us. No idiots shouting or mis behaving. Infact the crowd was totally mixed- from 18 - 80.

The service staff were lovely and cracked jokes continuously, especially when I ashamedly asked for ketchup for my steak and chips [!!!!!]

We ordered a bottle of wine priced a couple of quid above the house and it was delightful.

food was not outstanding but very pleasant for the price and just the right amount so that you can actually eat both starter and main.

They also gave us enough time to rest inbetween courses and we ended up spending 3 hours in there.

I'd definitely go back- love the rustic and authenticity of the place.

Mucho Mas - Good quick and very tasty food by yvonnep

yvonnep — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 13:24:20 +0000

Review by yvonnep

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7704 2123

Website: http://www.mucho-mas.co.uk

Tags: mexican, good value, lively

Very good & very quick. Rich well cooked meat combined with the vibrant fresh flavours of the accompaniments. They do veggie options also but I haven't tried them. Great for lunch or a quick evening bite.Very good & very quick. Rich well cooked meat combined with the vibrant fresh flavours of the accompaniments. They do veggie options also but I haven't tried them. Great for lunch or a quick evening bite.

The Angel Curry Centre - BEST CURRY IN LONDON by LOVEANDKATE

LOVEANDKATE — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 23:16:27 +0000

Review by LOVEANDKATE

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7837 5727

Tags: indian, lively, romantic

I'VE EATEN MY WAY THROUGH 60% OF THE CURRY HOUSES ON BRICK LANE AND NONE OF THEM ARE EVEN CLOSE TO THIS LITTLE GEM!!!

STEREOTYPICALLY FOR INDIANS IN ENGLAND IT APPEARS TO BE SET OUT LIKE AN AUNTIES LOUNGE AND MAY NOT SEEM PARTICULARLY ENTICING BUT ONCE YOU'RE IN YOU WON'T TURN BACK!

IT CAN PROBABLY SEAT ABOUT 25-30 TOPS AT ONE TIME AND IS OFTEN BEST TO BOOK LATER ON IN THE WEEK AND AT WEEKENDS. BUT THEY WILL ALWAYS TRY AND FIT YOU IN. ANGEL RESIDENTS IN THE KNOW OFTEN FLOCK HERE IN LARGE PARTIES AND IT CAN GET JOLLYFULLY ROWDY AT TIMES. IN THE WEEK IT TENDS TO BE RELAXED AND MANY DINE ALONE IN COMFORT.

IT IS CLEAN AND THE SERVICE IS POLITE, HUMBLE AND FRIENDLY. THEY OPEN THE DOOR FOR YOU WHEN YOU ARRIVE AND LEAVE AND ARE MORE THAN HAPPY TO ASSIST IN ANY WAY THEY CAN.

MENU IS FANTASTIC, NOT OILY AND GREASY BUT COOKED FRESH AND AUTHENTIC SERVED ON CRISP WHITE PLATES.

POPPADOMS COME WITH A RICH MANGO CHUTNEY, LIME PICKLE, ONION SALAD AND MINT SAUCE WITHOUT EVEN HAVING TO ASK.

I'VE NEVER SPENT MORE THAN Â£15 IN ONE VISIT

NO ATTITUDE, FAB INDIAN - A MUST TO TRY - A SHORT WALK FROM BARS AND LIFE OF ANGEL

LOVE IT!!!!

I'VE EATEN MY WAY THROUGH 60% OF THE CURRY HOUSES ON BRICK LANE AND NONE OF THEM ARE EVEN CLOSE TO THIS LITTLE GEM!!!

STEREOTYPICALLY FOR INDIANS IN ENGLAND IT APPEARS TO BE SET OUT LIKE AN AUNTIES LOUNGE AND MAY NOT SEEM PARTICULARLY ENTICING BUT ONCE YOU'RE IN YOU WON'T TURN BACK!

IT CAN PROBABLY SEAT ABOUT 25-30 TOPS AT ONE TIME AND IS OFTEN BEST TO BOOK LATER ON IN THE WEEK AND AT WEEKENDS. BUT THEY WILL ALWAYS TRY AND FIT YOU IN. ANGEL RESIDENTS IN THE KNOW OFTEN FLOCK HERE IN LARGE PARTIES AND IT CAN GET JOLLYFULLY ROWDY AT TIMES. IN THE WEEK IT TENDS TO BE RELAXED AND MANY DINE ALONE IN COMFORT.

IT IS CLEAN AND THE SERVICE IS POLITE, HUMBLE AND FRIENDLY. THEY OPEN THE DOOR FOR YOU WHEN YOU ARRIVE AND LEAVE AND ARE MORE THAN HAPPY TO ASSIST IN ANY WAY THEY CAN.

MENU IS FANTASTIC, NOT OILY AND GREASY BUT COOKED FRESH AND AUTHENTIC SERVED ON CRISP WHITE PLATES.

POPPADOMS COME WITH A RICH MANGO CHUTNEY, LIME PICKLE, ONION SALAD AND MINT SAUCE WITHOUT EVEN HAVING TO ASK.

I'VE NEVER SPENT MORE THAN Â£15 IN ONE VISIT

NO ATTITUDE, FAB INDIAN - A MUST TO TRY - A SHORT WALK FROM BARS AND LIFE OF ANGEL

LOVE IT!!!!

Vue - Angel Vue by jellybeans

jellybeans — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 22:37:15 +0000

Review by jellybeans

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 0871 224 0240

Website: http://www.myvue.com

Tags: air conditioning, auto ticket machines, bar / lounge bar

The Vue cinema in Angel is a big multiplex. You can get to from the main road and the closest tube station is Angel, but you have to walk a bit to get to here.

It's very big and spacious and coupled with the large screens and state of the art sound gives you a great performance if this is what you are looking for.

They have their popcorn and other things you can but, but these can be expensive and being in London, the prices for tickets are not cheap either.

If you want a trip out and fancy the cinema though, this is a good place to go to. You can always eat something at a local fast food restaurant like a nearby McDonalds or being something with you if you really want.

But if you like the while cinema experience, then you can't go too wrong here. Avoid the busy times or not and its still a great experience here.The Vue cinema in Angel is a big multiplex. You can get to from the main road and the closest tube station is Angel, but you have to walk a bit to get to here.

It's very big and spacious and coupled with the large screens and state of the art sound gives you a great performance if this is what you are looking for.

They have their popcorn and other things you can but, but these can be expensive and being in London, the prices for tickets are not cheap either.

If you want a trip out and fancy the cinema though, this is a good place to go to. You can always eat something at a local fast food restaurant like a nearby McDonalds or being something with you if you really want.

But if you like the while cinema experience, then you can't go too wrong here. Avoid the busy times or not and its still a great experience here.

Bacchus - Bacchus - 13 June 2008 by Food_Snob

Food_Snob — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 08:13:14 +0000

Review by Food_Snob

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7739 7176

Website: http://www.bacchus-restaurant.co.uk/

Tags: friendly, good value, international

I appreciate it is no longer open, but I still thought I would share these notes I made a couple of months ago...

Illustrated Critique:

http://foodsnobblog.wordpress.com/category/restaurant-reviews/bacchus-restaurant-reviews/

Text-only Critique:

Carbonation, emulsification, oil spherification, vacuum distillationâ¬¦alright, settle down, I am not reviewing el Bulli, itâ¬"s not Fat Duck either (well, this week anyway), but of course you already know this from the post heading. Yes, it is Bacchus of Hoxton. Of where? Of Hoxton. You would be forgiven for not having heard of it before; it is a pretty miserable, impoverished and ugly area just north of the City, so miserable, impoverished and ugly in fact, it is rather trendy. Actually, it is not all bad; Hoxton did give the world the Kray twins, Lenny McLean (actor, bouncer, bare-knuckle boxer and â¬Ühardest man in Britainâ¬") and Jamie Oliver. Well, OKâ¬¦maybe it is that bad.

I had never before been and most probably never would have gone to Hoxton were it not â¬Üthanksâ¬" to Nuno Mendes. Nestled away behind a council estate, a few minutesâ¬" walk from Old Street, sits his Bacchus; former pub, current laboratoire gastronomique, or more appropriately, laboratÃ³rio gastronÃ´mico. Chef Nuno, formerly of el Bulli and Jean-Georges, has established an impressive outpost (or blockhouse, considering the neighbourhood) of creative cooking. His mission is to bring avant-garde cuisine to the masses; his motto, â¬Üfine dining in trainersâ¬".

The restaurant its very self is a combination of contrasts: well-maintained, large and painted completely white, it stands out clean and precise amongst grubbier surroundings; yet, it is also slightly anonymous, the signage almost unnoticeable and the front door easy to miss. However, it works.

Entering the restaurant, you are instantly absorbed by a welcoming, comfy ambience: windows draped with heavy curtains, warm woods and candles on each table combine to create a disarming charm. The faux Parisian bar and open kitchen add a further layer of intimacy, allowing guests to watch the chefs at play and encouraging a fuller dining experience.

After being greeted at the door, I was politely escorted to a table where the menu, printed on a single sheet of paper, awaited me. There were only two choices: the full tasting menu, 7 courses, Â£60 or the reduced tasting menu, 4 courses, Â£45. Brilliant! Bacchus made it too easy. Both my sad inability to make quick, decisive dish choices and my desire to sample as much of the menu as possible (reading between the lines - eat as much as I can), were simultaneously neutralised; the full menu please. However, because I do not eat pork, I had to request one dish, Umami: Del Mar La Montagna - Memories of San Sebastian, be substituted. Although informed this would not be a problem for the kitchen, I was quite disappointed. I had already learnt that Chef Nuno had a special fondness for San Sebastian, so I could not help but expect that this dish was close to his heart and probably something rather special. Câ¬"est la vie!

My order dispatched, I sat back and contemplated the menu. I had barely started this when I was distracted by the appearance of Chef Nuno himself, who looks like a cross between artist, mad scientist and wizard, hunched over a large canister at the serving station. Suddenly, a mysterious mist, oozing out this magic container, began to envelop his features; I was immensely curious. After some more technical, scientific â¬Üfiddlingâ¬", the sorcererâ¬"s, sorry, chefâ¬"s creation was presented to me.

â¬SYour first amuse boucheâ¬¦â¬