Latest reviews for Restaurants 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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!!!!

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¬

Taste Of India - the best indian around by glenburg1

glenburg1 — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 10:55:42 +0000

Review by glenburg1

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7226 1125

Tags: indian, romantic, good value

If your looking for a great indian then this is it,
great food ,the best atmosphere ,even better service ,all you can ask for in an indian.
They do takeaway and eat in .
You cant beat the great friendly service or there food which is to die for,
always hot and tasty (takes a while to come which just shows how fresh it is).
Idealy placed to eat in before or after a night out weather with you freinds or for a romantic meal.
this realy is the place to eat,just try it and see, it is also very reasonably priced.
If your looking for a great indian then this is it,
great food ,the best atmosphere ,even better service ,all you can ask for in an indian.
They do takeaway and eat in .
You cant beat the great friendly service or there food which is to die for,
always hot and tasty (takes a while to come which just shows how fresh it is).
Idealy placed to eat in before or after a night out weather with you freinds or for a romantic meal.
this realy is the place to eat,just try it and see, it is also very reasonably priced.

Fredericks - by razorshine

razorshine — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 18:05:33 +0000

Review by razorshine

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7359 2888

Website: www.fredericks.co.uk

Tags: smoking, 2 for 1, al fresco

Great restaurant - definitely recommended. Great ambience good food, and not as busy as other places. Great for business lunches.Great restaurant - definitely recommended. Great ambience good food, and not as busy as other places. Great for business lunches.

Wagamama - by tanzanitelilac

tanzanitelilac — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 15:55:01 +0000

Review by tanzanitelilac

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7226 2664

Website: http://www.wagamama.com

Tags: japanese, lively, tasty

I recently visited Wagamama with a friend. Neither of us could believe why he had not had the pleasure of visiting before. If you are looking for a quick and lively meal, then Wagamama is for you. Usually there is a queue as you approach but the longest we have had to wait to be seated was 5 minutes. Wagamama often have vouchers, such as 2 for 1 available through the members area on the website, which proves a great bargain.

Iâ¬"m partial to the amai uddon myself with chilli sauce added at the table, but there is something for everyone and you can even have a look on the website before you go to familiarise yourself with the menu if like me you are indecisive!I recently visited Wagamama with a friend. Neither of us could believe why he had not had the pleasure of visiting before. If you are looking for a quick and lively meal, then Wagamama is for you. Usually there is a queue as you approach but the longest we have had to wait to be seated was 5 minutes. Wagamama often have vouchers, such as 2 for 1 available through the members area on the website, which proves a great bargain.

Iâ¬"m partial to the amai uddon myself with chilli sauce added at the table, but there is something for everyone and you can even have a look on the website before you go to familiarise yourself with the menu if like me you are indecisive!

Tortilla - by yvonnep

yvonnep — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 13:27:13 +0000

Review by yvonnep

Rating: 3.00

Website: www.tortilla.co.uk

Tags: lively, mexican, cheap eat

I've only been once but was underwhelmed. The service was abrupt and I had to wait while someone behind me jumped the queue. I've had better burrito's too from Mucho Mas up the road or Freebird in Exmouth Market. Maybe I caught them on a bad day? It hasn't inspired me to go back.I've only been once but was underwhelmed. The service was abrupt and I had to wait while someone behind me jumped the queue. I've had better burrito's too from Mucho Mas up the road or Freebird in Exmouth Market. Maybe I caught them on a bad day? It hasn't inspired me to go back.

Canal 125 - good food and Beck's Vier (yes, again) by ricoeurian

ricoeurian — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:45:55 +0000

Review by ricoeurian

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7837 1924

Tags: international, friendly, good value

Canal 125 is the kind of pub I like - it has a bit of variety in what it offers to you as a venue...
You can eat outside beside the canal, or use the private rooms upstairs, including cushioned corners and a balcony overlooking, erm, Caledonian Road. Or you can stay inside downstairs and enjoy the long bar, wooden floors, and good food (I'm a sucker for big mirrors, and they've got a real crowd-pleaser in there).

The selection of beers is unchallenging but good, and almost any other drink is available, including good coffee.

The food is cheap but expensive, and generally yummy. Fish pie is excellent (ceamy, with plenty of chunky fish and seafood), and the beef burgers are popular. The slightly more refined corn fed chicken with chorizo, roasted peppers and artichokes is very good too.

Never crowded, but often busy. Even if it's deserted though, the vibe is still good. Staff are friendly and helpful, even if they do slightly unnerve me by taking big orders without writing anything down.Canal 125 is the kind of pub I like - it has a bit of variety in what it offers to you as a venue...
You can eat outside beside the canal, or use the private rooms upstairs, including cushioned corners and a balcony overlooking, erm, Caledonian Road. Or you can stay inside downstairs and enjoy the long bar, wooden floors, and good food (I'm a sucker for big mirrors, and they've got a real crowd-pleaser in there).

The selection of beers is unchallenging but good, and almost any other drink is available, including good coffee.

The food is cheap but expensive, and generally yummy. Fish pie is excellent (ceamy, with plenty of chunky fish and seafood), and the beef burgers are popular. The slightly more refined corn fed chicken with chorizo, roasted peppers and artichokes is very good too.

Never crowded, but often busy. Even if it's deserted though, the vibe is still good. Staff are friendly and helpful, even if they do slightly unnerve me by taking big orders without writing anything down.

Viet Garden - good value summer food by katen

katen — Wed, 14 May 2008 19:10:25 +0000

Review by katen

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7700 6040

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

Tags: vietnamese, good value, cheap eat

The bun or noodle salad is fantastic and hits the spot during the summer. Fresh flavours and a satisfying amount of spice. Stay away from the fried food and you won't be disappointed. The staff are really friendly and we always get served quickly which means that it is a great choice either before a movie or a play at the Almeida. The bun or noodle salad is fantastic and hits the spot during the summer. Fresh flavours and a satisfying amount of spice. Stay away from the fried food and you won't be disappointed. The staff are really friendly and we always get served quickly which means that it is a great choice either before a movie or a play at the Almeida.

Firezza - delicious, authentic pizza by Foodie08

Foodie08 — Fri, 02 May 2008 17:01:38 +0000

Review by Foodie08

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7359 7400

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

Tags: italian, pizza, delivery

This is a really great mini chain of pizza resturants selling neapolitan style, stone baked pizzas by the half metre. There are well over 15 pizza toppings, some without cheese, many without meat and all with fresh ingredients. You can really taste the flavours in the pizzas and the salads are always green and perky.

I usually have my pizza delivered and they come hot, in huge boxes and there is always plenty to share. They always come on time, if not a little earlier than expected.This is a really great mini chain of pizza resturants selling neapolitan style, stone baked pizzas by the half metre. There are well over 15 pizza toppings, some without cheese, many without meat and all with fresh ingredients. You can really taste the flavours in the pizzas and the salads are always green and perky.

I usually have my pizza delivered and they come hot, in huge boxes and there is always plenty to share. They always come on time, if not a little earlier than expected.

Giraffe - Pleasant but too eclectic by qwghlm

qwghlm — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:12:29 +0000

Review by qwghlm

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7359 5999

Website: http://www.giraffe.net

Tags: bar, fun, friendly

A nice enough place, but I'm baffled as to the point of this place is - the cutesy playful tone and the really varied menu choice made for confusion - on the menu was Mexican, Japanese, Chinese, Indian... with such a wide range of food it felt like it was trying to please everyone and the result was an OK meal. Jack of all trades and that - if only they really concentrated on one particular style and nailed it right I think it would be really good.

Incidentally, the staff were very friendly and the prices were affordable and I can see what it means by being child-friendly. I'd drop in again if I were passing and peckish but I wouldn't make the effort to specifically go there.A nice enough place, but I'm baffled as to the point of this place is - the cutesy playful tone and the really varied menu choice made for confusion - on the menu was Mexican, Japanese, Chinese, Indian... with such a wide range of food it felt like it was trying to please everyone and the result was an OK meal. Jack of all trades and that - if only they really concentrated on one particular style and nailed it right I think it would be really good.

Incidentally, the staff were very friendly and the prices were affordable and I can see what it means by being child-friendly. I'd drop in again if I were passing and peckish but I wouldn't make the effort to specifically go there.

Gufaa - TERRIBLE!! by Etta

Etta — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 14:41:03 +0000

Review by Etta

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 7354 5465

Website: http://www.gufaa.net

Tags: indian, crowded, bad

Where to begin?? This is quite simply the most disgusting curry I have ever (what I had of it) had!! The restaurant is more expensive than most curry houses, it being in the central zone of Upper St, and because of the classier interior my partner and I expected good things. Oh, how looks can be so decieving!! We picked up a menu and went home to order a delivery. There was a distinct language barrier to get across first but we finally managed to order a Murgh Tikka Bhuna Special, my partner had a vegetarian main course and for sides we ordered spinach rice and bombay aloo.
When the food arrived a staggering two hours later, we were amazed to find it was cold. My dish was supposed to be cooked with chopped tomato, onions and green peppers. What I found when I opened the lid was a few lumps of cold chicken swimming in an overspiced watery substance. There was not a vegetable to be seen. The bombay aloo looked nothing like any other bombay aloo I have ever laid eyes on. The potato was grey and again, the sauce was like water. It looked inedible. The papadoms were in bits and burnt. They got our order wrong on the rice and we ended up with plain. We shoved our plates of unappetizing muck in the microwave for a couple of minutes and after two revolting mouthfuls we chucked 'em in the bin. My partner rang up to complain and he was hung up on. Everything about the Gufaa was apalling. If you want a decent curry house I suggest one on Essex Rd. They're cheaper and the food actually looks and tastes like an Indian dish ought to!!Where to begin?? This is quite simply the most disgusting curry I have ever (what I had of it) had!! The restaurant is more expensive than most curry houses, it being in the central zone of Upper St, and because of the classier interior my partner and I expected good things. Oh, how looks can be so decieving!! We picked up a menu and went home to order a delivery. There was a distinct language barrier to get across first but we finally managed to order a Murgh Tikka Bhuna Special, my partner had a vegetarian main course and for sides we ordered spinach rice and bombay aloo.
When the food arrived a staggering two hours later, we were amazed to find it was cold. My dish was supposed to be cooked with chopped tomato, onions and green peppers. What I found when I opened the lid was a few lumps of cold chicken swimming in an overspiced watery substance. There was not a vegetable to be seen. The bombay aloo looked nothing like any other bombay aloo I have ever laid eyes on. The potato was grey and again, the sauce was like water. It looked inedible. The papadoms were in bits and burnt. They got our order wrong on the rice and we ended up with plain. We shoved our plates of unappetizing muck in the microwave for a couple of minutes and after two revolting mouthfuls we chucked 'em in the bin. My partner rang up to complain and he was hung up on. Everything about the Gufaa was apalling. If you want a decent curry house I suggest one on Essex Rd. They're cheaper and the food actually looks and tastes like an Indian dish ought to!!

The Islington Tapas Bar - (3.5 stars) A good budget to mid-priced option by allolex

allolex — Sun, 09 Dec 2007 16:38:18 +0000

Review by allolex

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7226 3272

Tags: spanish, bar, takeaway

This restaurant is a 3.5/5 in my book.

I've been to the Islington Tapas Bar (ITB) about six times since discovering them about a year ago. My partner and I are big fans of tapas and Spanish cuisines in general and had been looking for something in North London for quite some time. and Islington's close enough to North London for us.

The food here will not knock your socks off like the dishes they serve at Barrafina, but I think the ITB serves good food, especially considering the price. Try the croquettes and any of the chicken dishes. Make sure you order bread to soak up the sauces.

We generally order Ã la carte, but have also tried the "tapas for a tenner" offer they have. They would go out of business if they allowed their customers to order willy-nilly, so they restrict the menu to less expensive dishes and logically require that you finish the three (or so?) dishes you can order in one go. The trick is to order the light options first and the heavy ones last.

Two people can eat here for less than Â£40 with wine. We generally come in around Â£50-60 because of what and the way we order.

This restaurant is a 3.5/5 in my book.

I've been to the Islington Tapas Bar (ITB) about six times since discovering them about a year ago. My partner and I are big fans of tapas and Spanish cuisines in general and had been looking for something in North London for quite some time. and Islington's close enough to North London for us.

The food here will not knock your socks off like the dishes they serve at Barrafina, but I think the ITB serves good food, especially considering the price. Try the croquettes and any of the chicken dishes. Make sure you order bread to soak up the sauces.

We generally order Ã la carte, but have also tried the "tapas for a tenner" offer they have. They would go out of business if they allowed their customers to order willy-nilly, so they restrict the menu to less expensive dishes and logically require that you finish the three (or so?) dishes you can order in one go. The trick is to order the light options first and the heavy ones last.

Two people can eat here for less than Â£40 with wine. We generally come in around Â£50-60 because of what and the way we order.