Latest reviews in Lambeth, London, United Kingdom

Giraffe - Rip-off by sheilaellen

sheilaellen — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:27:26 +0000

Review by sheilaellen

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 7928 2004

Website: http://www.giraffe.net

Tags: international, healthy, good value

I got the distinct impression that, whatever high principles they may purport to subscribe to, the people that run this place are not interested in their customers' best interests.

We had to queue for ages (approx. 30 minutes), standing in their busy doorway. Luckily I had a free paper with me, which I read from cover to cover.

Once seated, in front of aforementioned queue, I was glad of the pullover I'd brought as by now a sharpish breeze was blowing through the doorway, onto my back.

I've recently had to start trying to cut gluten out of my diet - much easier said than done as you'd be surprised how often it can sneak into products that you just wouldn't expect to contain it - so I'm especially grateful to food retailers that provide clear labels telling me what's safe and what's not. Unfortunately, Giraffe don't do this. However, the Manager did go out of his way to try and help and after much rummaging around in his office (and another fairly lengthy wait) was able to produce a list of which products did/didn't contain gluten. Unfortunately, that was nearly everything.

Eventually I opted for an overpriced steak (fatty) and mash (dry). The portion size was adequate though, which is more than I can say for the duck noodles that my boyfriend opted for. The look on his face was akin to a starving kitten, closely followed by one of pain, on receipt of the bill.

Our advice: don't bother.
I got the distinct impression that, whatever high principles they may purport to subscribe to, the people that run this place are not interested in their customers' best interests.

We had to queue for ages (approx. 30 minutes), standing in their busy doorway. Luckily I had a free paper with me, which I read from cover to cover.

Once seated, in front of aforementioned queue, I was glad of the pullover I'd brought as by now a sharpish breeze was blowing through the doorway, onto my back.

I've recently had to start trying to cut gluten out of my diet - much easier said than done as you'd be surprised how often it can sneak into products that you just wouldn't expect to contain it - so I'm especially grateful to food retailers that provide clear labels telling me what's safe and what's not. Unfortunately, Giraffe don't do this. However, the Manager did go out of his way to try and help and after much rummaging around in his office (and another fairly lengthy wait) was able to produce a list of which products did/didn't contain gluten. Unfortunately, that was nearly everything.

Eventually I opted for an overpriced steak (fatty) and mash (dry). The portion size was adequate though, which is more than I can say for the duck noodles that my boyfriend opted for. The look on his face was akin to a starving kitten, closely followed by one of pain, on receipt of the bill.

Our advice: don't bother.

The Jolly Gardeners - German Food in the Heart of Lambeth by nopstar

nopstar — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 15:04:29 +0000

Review by nopstar

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7582 3814

Website: http://zeitgeist-london.com/?page_id=3

Tags: live music, independent pub, dj

This is my Friday lunch spot. The pub is run by a German Couple kicking out hearty, satisfying, sleep inducing German food. The menu is fantastic, and a good value. Schnitzel, and roast potatoes and a drink for about Â£5.

The only thing Iâ¬"ve stumbled across that I didnâ¬"t like was the roast in beer sauce? The above picture is the Jager Schnitzel, mushroom gravy and chips.
Simple and Satisfying.
This is my Friday lunch spot. The pub is run by a German Couple kicking out hearty, satisfying, sleep inducing German food. The menu is fantastic, and a good value. Schnitzel, and roast potatoes and a drink for about Â£5.

The only thing Iâ¬"ve stumbled across that I didnâ¬"t like was the roast in beer sauce? The above picture is the Jager Schnitzel, mushroom gravy and chips.
Simple and Satisfying.

Sirena Restaurant - Hole in the wall by nopstar

nopstar — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 11:15:32 +0000

Review by nopstar

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7587 0683

Tags: italian, lively, takeaway

Sirenaâ¬"s is located in the basement of the southbank house a non-descript office building in between nowhere and nothing interesting. That being said if you work near Vauxhall and youâ¬"re into thin crust pizza, this is the place for you. Iâ¬"m giving this place 4 stars, but the rating is only for its pizza. I think the food is about a 3.

The other fare is decent with generous portions... the place is as loud and boisterous as its waiters. (Word of warning... if youâ¬"re an attractive lady youâ¬"re getting snogged by owner)
The pizza is off the hook... go with the signature Sirena (artichoke, tomato, parma ham and sausage)
Sirenaâ¬"s is located in the basement of the southbank house a non-descript office building in between nowhere and nothing interesting. That being said if you work near Vauxhall and youâ¬"re into thin crust pizza, this is the place for you. Iâ¬"m giving this place 4 stars, but the rating is only for its pizza. I think the food is about a 3.

The other fare is decent with generous portions... the place is as loud and boisterous as its waiters. (Word of warning... if youâ¬"re an attractive lady youâ¬"re getting snogged by owner)
The pizza is off the hook... go with the signature Sirena (artichoke, tomato, parma ham and sausage)

Steve's Bed & Breakfast - trilly by trilly

trilly — Thu, 22 May 2008 17:04:06 +0000

Review by trilly

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 7928 4079

i cant even give this place a rating,we booked to stay overnight with our children before going to Paris,we never stayed, what dose that tell you? Should have take photos and sent them to public health and the fire service the place is a death trap! I have only rated this because the web site asked for it but don't stay there!!! i cant even give this place a rating,we booked to stay overnight with our children before going to Paris,we never stayed, what dose that tell you? Should have take photos and sent them to public health and the fire service the place is a death trap! I have only rated this because the web site asked for it but don't stay there!!!

Skylon - Impressive Views but OK Food by walid

walid — Tue, 13 May 2008 13:45:10 +0000

Review by walid

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7654 7800

Website: http://www.danddlondon.com/restaurants/skylon/home

Tags: south bank, expensive, british

This is a really difficult one to rate, on one side the service was a 2 star, the venue a 5 star, and the food 3 star... ok so overall a 3 star.

Found on top of the Royal Festival Hall, Skylon has a restaurant and brasserie section. My friends and I sat in the brasserie section as we starred at the beautiful view of the south bank. With its incredibly high ceilings Skylon feels very airy and with its candles at night would probably be romantic.

The food is ok at best, I had the Merguez Couscous which wasn't very exciting in terms of taste and texture. What this place has going is that the food is reasonably priced. See picture of the menu.

The disappointment came with the quality of the service. Whilst there was an abundance of waiters it was quite difficult to get their attention and when you did the service was slowish. Additionally I overheard at least 4 times dishes / glasses being dropped by the staff.

In spite of the above issues I would recommend you give this place a try, if not for the food do it for the great views and superb airy atmosphere.
This is a really difficult one to rate, on one side the service was a 2 star, the venue a 5 star, and the food 3 star... ok so overall a 3 star.

Found on top of the Royal Festival Hall, Skylon has a restaurant and brasserie section. My friends and I sat in the brasserie section as we starred at the beautiful view of the south bank. With its incredibly high ceilings Skylon feels very airy and with its candles at night would probably be romantic.

The food is ok at best, I had the Merguez Couscous which wasn't very exciting in terms of taste and texture. What this place has going is that the food is reasonably priced. See picture of the menu.

The disappointment came with the quality of the service. Whilst there was an abundance of waiters it was quite difficult to get their attention and when you did the service was slowish. Additionally I overheard at least 4 times dishes / glasses being dropped by the staff.

In spite of the above issues I would recommend you give this place a try, if not for the food do it for the great views and superb airy atmosphere.

London Eye - Birthday party not to forget by francesca_marie

francesca_marie — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 19:34:16 +0000

Review by francesca_marie

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 0870 500 0600

Website: http://www.ba-londoneye.com

Tags: fun, views, view

The view from the London Eye is more amazing than words can say, even pictures can't catch it true beauty.
I went on the London Eye over a year ago with my friends for one of their birthdays, my first thoughts were 'this is going to be boring, seeing the same scenery for half an hour', but one we got on I was blown away.
Every time you turn around the scenery seems to change, every angle is a different experience.
We went on in the early evening, so by the time we were at the top you could see the whole of London in a mystic dusk view, the best time to go I think.

My best advice, book your tickets!The view from the London Eye is more amazing than words can say, even pictures can't catch it true beauty.
I went on the London Eye over a year ago with my friends for one of their birthdays, my first thoughts were 'this is going to be boring, seeing the same scenery for half an hour', but one we got on I was blown away.
Every time you turn around the scenery seems to change, every angle is a different experience.
We went on in the early evening, so by the time we were at the top you could see the whole of London in a mystic dusk view, the best time to go I think.

My best advice, book your tickets!

Miller Of Mansfield - Not bad by qwghlm

qwghlm — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 12:56:21 +0000

Review by qwghlm

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7407 2690

Website: http://www.laurelpubco.com

Tags: live music, food, relaxed

Has a big screen, reasonable selection of Thai food and a good upstairs room with bands and live music. Has a big screen, reasonable selection of Thai food and a good upstairs room with bands and live music.

New Dewaniam Indian Restaurant & Takeaway - Worth a visit by sheilaellen

sheilaellen — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 00:02:59 +0000

Review by sheilaellen

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7703 9318

Tags: indian, good value, romantic

This used to be my local curry house and I was sorry to leave it behind when I moved away from the area but thrilled to discover that they delivered to my new address (despite having moved a good 20 minutes away and across the river). Ironically, I'd never eaten *in* the restaurant while I lived locally but they gave the place a drastic makeover a year or so ago and so I thought I'd give it a go. Great move. I now average a visit about once a month - even though it would be easier to get them to deliver. The decor is modern yet cosy, the staff are helpful and friendly, the menu is extensive and interesting and the food delicious.This used to be my local curry house and I was sorry to leave it behind when I moved away from the area but thrilled to discover that they delivered to my new address (despite having moved a good 20 minutes away and across the river). Ironically, I'd never eaten *in* the restaurant while I lived locally but they gave the place a drastic makeover a year or so ago and so I thought I'd give it a go. Great move. I now average a visit about once a month - even though it would be easier to get them to deliver. The decor is modern yet cosy, the staff are helpful and friendly, the menu is extensive and interesting and the food delicious.

Hot Stuff - Super Stuff by Browners

Browners — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 22:59:17 +0000

Review by Browners

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7720 1480

Tags: indian, lively, crowded

Having read Jay Rayner's review of Hot Stuff in the Observer a few weeks ago I seized the first opportunity that presented itself and dragged a whole bunch of friends down to deepest darkest Vauxhal for what turned out to be the best curry I've ever had.

A very diverse group of us are going skiing next week so it seemed like a good idea to have a pre skiing get together so we all make friends and get excited about zooming around on some snow. We tried to keep the 1850 and 1650 chat to a minumum given that South Lamberth isn't exactly Fulham. Thank God!

The advanced party met at a very straightforward pub called the Gladstone which I was hoping was going to be situated opposite the Disraeli or the Queen Vic. No such luck. It was in fact directly opposite an enormous Sainsbury. Cowie had a lot of trouble finding us and landed up being picked up by a cabby from the Battersea Dog Home and delivered for free because he was fearful for her safety. Pearls and a trouser suit tend to stand out in the wasteland of Vauxhal.

We sloped off down the cul de sac to Hot Stuff for our 9pm reservation and fuelled up on beer and wine from the off licence next door. The restaurant is tiny. It probably seats about 25 people at a squeeze. The walls are covered in murals and a range of reviews that veer from the brilliant to the dazzling. This place has a long history of cooking great curry.

Our waiter was hillarious and very helpful. He gave us all menus and then said that he'd prefer it if we didn't order from them. In fact he asked for them back and asked if we were happy for him to just serve us the food that his kitchen thought would suit us best! Who were we to argue!

A couple of metres of naan bread appeared which he balanaced very cleverly on top of our beer bottles. It was scorching hot and incredibly good. But not as brilliant as the starters that then appeared. Spicy paneer and chilli chicken were both delicious. As was the bowlful of enormous prawns. By this point we were already feeling quite full.

After a few minutes of banter from our waiter and a few trips to the very dodgy loo our main courses arrived relentlessly. A collection of dishes that I can't even begin to describe or remember. The only one that I can clearly recall was a corriander lamb curry which I think may have been a dopiazza. It was gorgeous. And has since become my curry of choice. So long Rogan Josh. It's been fun. But a tastier number has outdone you!

There was no fish on the menu. You have to visit them after Wednesday in the week for that treat. I simply can't wait to go back and give it another go. It's a brilliant find in a place that you'd never go. I've raved about it to everyone I've seen in the last week. It's the kind of place that I'd like to lift up and plonk down on the end of Chivalry Road and then not tell anyone about!Having read Jay Rayner's review of Hot Stuff in the Observer a few weeks ago I seized the first opportunity that presented itself and dragged a whole bunch of friends down to deepest darkest Vauxhal for what turned out to be the best curry I've ever had.

A very diverse group of us are going skiing next week so it seemed like a good idea to have a pre skiing get together so we all make friends and get excited about zooming around on some snow. We tried to keep the 1850 and 1650 chat to a minumum given that South Lamberth isn't exactly Fulham. Thank God!

The advanced party met at a very straightforward pub called the Gladstone which I was hoping was going to be situated opposite the Disraeli or the Queen Vic. No such luck. It was in fact directly opposite an enormous Sainsbury. Cowie had a lot of trouble finding us and landed up being picked up by a cabby from the Battersea Dog Home and delivered for free because he was fearful for her safety. Pearls and a trouser suit tend to stand out in the wasteland of Vauxhal.

We sloped off down the cul de sac to Hot Stuff for our 9pm reservation and fuelled up on beer and wine from the off licence next door. The restaurant is tiny. It probably seats about 25 people at a squeeze. The walls are covered in murals and a range of reviews that veer from the brilliant to the dazzling. This place has a long history of cooking great curry.

Our waiter was hillarious and very helpful. He gave us all menus and then said that he'd prefer it if we didn't order from them. In fact he asked for them back and asked if we were happy for him to just serve us the food that his kitchen thought would suit us best! Who were we to argue!

A couple of metres of naan bread appeared which he balanaced very cleverly on top of our beer bottles. It was scorching hot and incredibly good. But not as brilliant as the starters that then appeared. Spicy paneer and chilli chicken were both delicious. As was the bowlful of enormous prawns. By this point we were already feeling quite full.

After a few minutes of banter from our waiter and a few trips to the very dodgy loo our main courses arrived relentlessly. A collection of dishes that I can't even begin to describe or remember. The only one that I can clearly recall was a corriander lamb curry which I think may have been a dopiazza. It was gorgeous. And has since become my curry of choice. So long Rogan Josh. It's been fun. But a tastier number has outdone you!

There was no fish on the menu. You have to visit them after Wednesday in the week for that treat. I simply can't wait to go back and give it another go. It's a brilliant find in a place that you'd never go. I've raved about it to everyone I've seen in the last week. It's the kind of place that I'd like to lift up and plonk down on the end of Chivalry Road and then not tell anyone about!

Thai Silk - Fine if you're in the area by Sami

Sami — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 13:58:55 +0000

Review by Sami

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7735 9338

Tags: thai, friendly, cocktails

It's decent, definitely. The food is presented really nicely and the staff was very friendly, but there was nothing about it that jumped out at me that made me want to return. It's decent, definitely. The food is presented really nicely and the staff was very friendly, but there was nothing about it that jumped out at me that made me want to return.

The Royal Oak - Royal Oak Rage by gourmand

gourmand — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 13:02:47 +0000

Review by gourmand

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 7357 7173

Tags: food, traditional english, vegetarian dishes

Oh Dear! What in Harveyâ¬"s name has happened to this pub? Has it changed hands? It has always been a pleasure to visit this pub and receive a warm welcome from the hospitable landlord, Frank, and swap the occasional story and beer with him.

However shock and horror upon my return here with my wife yesterday (Sunday afternoon at 5pm) for another anticipated pleasurable visit only to be confronted by a surly foul-mouthed man across the bar professing to be the Licensee and repeatedly shouting at us to â¬Sfâ¬¦.off, and get outâ¬

Waterloo Brasserie - Meet your Waterloo by lattebird

lattebird — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:08:59 +0000

Review by lattebird

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 7960 0202

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

Tags: french, pretentious

A more upmarket Waterloo stop but tries too hard to be everything to all people.

I didn't even know that this place had opened and stumbled across it when I couldn't face the hectic Fire Station. At first glance it looked like a great find. A classy looking brasserie with a stylish bar and lounge area - ok a bit poncey but some occassions call for poncey don't they?

The bar menu looked nice enough with staples like Croque Monsieur and Quiche Lorraine for between Â£7-9.

The main restaurant is tucked away discreetly at the back (it's well laid out with nooks and crannies so that it feels like 5 different places)

The main resturant menu was more sophisticated French cuisine with some delicious sounding fish dishes and a traditional section which included Cassoulet and Moules.
I couldn't find any particular fault with the meal but it was fairly average for the price. I can't help feeling that they're trying too hard to cover all bases and certainly on the a la carte menu, are missing the mark.

I would go back for a drink (you know, on those poncey occasions) and possibly a quick bar bite but you can keep your Halibut en Papillote I'm afraid and as for the Â£30 Hungarian white that came highly recommended...well, I should have known better.
A more upmarket Waterloo stop but tries too hard to be everything to all people.

I didn't even know that this place had opened and stumbled across it when I couldn't face the hectic Fire Station. At first glance it looked like a great find. A classy looking brasserie with a stylish bar and lounge area - ok a bit poncey but some occassions call for poncey don't they?

The bar menu looked nice enough with staples like Croque Monsieur and Quiche Lorraine for between Â£7-9.

The main restaurant is tucked away discreetly at the back (it's well laid out with nooks and crannies so that it feels like 5 different places)

The main resturant menu was more sophisticated French cuisine with some delicious sounding fish dishes and a traditional section which included Cassoulet and Moules.
I couldn't find any particular fault with the meal but it was fairly average for the price. I can't help feeling that they're trying too hard to cover all bases and certainly on the a la carte menu, are missing the mark.

I would go back for a drink (you know, on those poncey occasions) and possibly a quick bar bite but you can keep your Halibut en Papillote I'm afraid and as for the Â£30 Hungarian white that came highly recommended...well, I should have known better.

Rebato's Wine & Tapas Bar - Authentic and agreeable tapas bar by ilovelucy

ilovelucy — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 22:25:05 +0000

Review by ilovelucy

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7735 6388

Website: http://www.rebatos.com

Tags: lively, family & home feel, spanish

On Saturday night after watching some teenage girls perform some flashy dance routines for charity, the Barrister fancied tapas. So i thought we could go to Rebato's which was reccommended by my Spanish teacher as being the best tapas in London - and she had tried many places.

Rebatos is situated at the end of a long row of Portugese shops, bars and restaurants as you walk down South Lambeth Road from Vauxhall Station - the walk will take you a good 7 minutes. The restaurant itself is decorated in a traditional spanish style with the tapas bar in the front and the formal dining room in the back. Arriving at about 7pm, we were able to sit at one of the few tables and stools in the bar area. It got very busy later on. Service was prompt though a bit scatty - the waiters hovered around us like flies at the beginning but we had to ask three times to get our bill. The tapas menu offered much of what a spanish tapas place would offer for about Â£4.75 a dish but there also was a good selection of specials which the waiter read out. Off the specials menu we choose the grilled gambas, grilled razor clam, the oxtail and the suckling pigs liver. We also chose the chorizo sausage, artichokes and the croquettes. I did enjoy most of it especially the seafood - which were succulent and fresh. The croquettes were tasty too - perfectly crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. Wasn't keen on the suckling pig's liver as it was far too strong for my liking. And the waiter gave a bit too much information away when he said the chorizo was microwaved....leaving me to wonder what else was?

Overall a nice night out - Rebato's brings me back to fond memories of Spain. But in my humble opinion, El Rincon Latino in Clapham is my favourite tapas place although its been awhile since I've been back. I must go soon and check it out...! On Saturday night after watching some teenage girls perform some flashy dance routines for charity, the Barrister fancied tapas. So i thought we could go to Rebato's which was reccommended by my Spanish teacher as being the best tapas in London - and she had tried many places.

Rebatos is situated at the end of a long row of Portugese shops, bars and restaurants as you walk down South Lambeth Road from Vauxhall Station - the walk will take you a good 7 minutes. The restaurant itself is decorated in a traditional spanish style with the tapas bar in the front and the formal dining room in the back. Arriving at about 7pm, we were able to sit at one of the few tables and stools in the bar area. It got very busy later on. Service was prompt though a bit scatty - the waiters hovered around us like flies at the beginning but we had to ask three times to get our bill. The tapas menu offered much of what a spanish tapas place would offer for about Â£4.75 a dish but there also was a good selection of specials which the waiter read out. Off the specials menu we choose the grilled gambas, grilled razor clam, the oxtail and the suckling pigs liver. We also chose the chorizo sausage, artichokes and the croquettes. I did enjoy most of it especially the seafood - which were succulent and fresh. The croquettes were tasty too - perfectly crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. Wasn't keen on the suckling pig's liver as it was far too strong for my liking. And the waiter gave a bit too much information away when he said the chorizo was microwaved....leaving me to wonder what else was?

Overall a nice night out - Rebato's brings me back to fond memories of Spain. But in my humble opinion, El Rincon Latino in Clapham is my favourite tapas place although its been awhile since I've been back. I must go soon and check it out...!

Camel & Artichoke - Nice friendly space by sizemore

sizemore — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 05:30:07 +0000

Review by sizemore

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7633 0270

Tags: food, events, pub

Lower Marsh is tucked away near Waterloo and full of interesting places that never seem to be open when I'm passing. Although I'd walked past this pub many time I'd never been in - so perhaps its old name, The Elusive Camel' was appropriate. It's now under new management and I got the chance to pop along as part of a London Bloggers Meetup group.

There's a nice size bar downstairs and then extra seating available upstairs. With events such as the one this evening the first floor is either half or fully booked depending on the expected numbers. So basically if you can get together 20 or 40 people you can have a large slice of the pub all to yourselves and with no silly booking fee.

The atmosphere downstairs in the regular bar seemed really nice and the staff were certainly helpful. After a quick chat while ordering drinks, myself and a friend were invited to look at the newly renovated beer garden. A little while back it was overgrown and not used, but now they've created a great little space for another 20 to 40 people to hang out once the weather improves. The barbecue is an added bonus. Expect this place to be packed in the summer.

Pretty standard selection of beer, but a nice little place that I'll be going to again. Lower Marsh is tucked away near Waterloo and full of interesting places that never seem to be open when I'm passing. Although I'd walked past this pub many time I'd never been in - so perhaps its old name, The Elusive Camel' was appropriate. It's now under new management and I got the chance to pop along as part of a London Bloggers Meetup group.

There's a nice size bar downstairs and then extra seating available upstairs. With events such as the one this evening the first floor is either half or fully booked depending on the expected numbers. So basically if you can get together 20 or 40 people you can have a large slice of the pub all to yourselves and with no silly booking fee.

The atmosphere downstairs in the regular bar seemed really nice and the staff were certainly helpful. After a quick chat while ordering drinks, myself and a friend were invited to look at the newly renovated beer garden. A little while back it was overgrown and not used, but now they've created a great little space for another 20 to 40 people to hang out once the weather improves. The barbecue is an added bonus. Expect this place to be packed in the summer.

Pretty standard selection of beer, but a nice little place that I'll be going to again.

Yao Fu - Spacious Treasure Trove by stantoncarlisle

stantoncarlisle — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 14:46:58 +0000

Review by stantoncarlisle

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7401 3976

Tags: lively, vegetarian, romantic

Yao fu is a long stones throw away from Waterloo, the South Bank and the Royal Court Theatre but worth the trudge, as the nosh is as good as anywhere in Chinatown. More importantly, the restaurant is calmer and the prices more than a shade cheaper. The green bamboo lined walls are quieting. The place has a two-tier aspect - with some secluded spots up above the main dining area. The service friendly. People are hipping to just what a godsend this place is. Most times I go there they are hosting a small bash, not just office get-togethers but other more fringe looking, party stuff. The sushi is good, fresh although not as good value as the Inshoku just around the corner. They serve the tea in cups - you have to ask for a pot and they'll rustle you up one. Almost everything I tried was fresh & cooked with warmth and precision. They change cooks regularly - the last one was from Fuijan and the food had a more local flavour. The Fuijan Rice was awesome. with tasty shards of lovely fish and vegetables.So good it was almost real home cooking. Knocking in at Â£5.50. I call that a cheap feast. If your in the area check it out. Or if you like Chinese and can handle a long schlep go for it.Yao fu is a long stones throw away from Waterloo, the South Bank and the Royal Court Theatre but worth the trudge, as the nosh is as good as anywhere in Chinatown. More importantly, the restaurant is calmer and the prices more than a shade cheaper. The green bamboo lined walls are quieting. The place has a two-tier aspect - with some secluded spots up above the main dining area. The service friendly. People are hipping to just what a godsend this place is. Most times I go there they are hosting a small bash, not just office get-togethers but other more fringe looking, party stuff. The sushi is good, fresh although not as good value as the Inshoku just around the corner. They serve the tea in cups - you have to ask for a pot and they'll rustle you up one. Almost everything I tried was fresh & cooked with warmth and precision. They change cooks regularly - the last one was from Fuijan and the food had a more local flavour. The Fuijan Rice was awesome. with tasty shards of lovely fish and vegetables.So good it was almost real home cooking. Knocking in at Â£5.50. I call that a cheap feast. If your in the area check it out. Or if you like Chinese and can handle a long schlep go for it.

Inshoku - Nice price Japanese by stantoncarlisle

stantoncarlisle — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 02:36:34 +0000

Review by stantoncarlisle

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7928 2311

Tags: japanese, lively, vegetarian

Nestled in the buzzing market alley, Lower Marsh is a fine, fine Japanese restaurant that puts Wagamama and the fast food Jap clip joints to shame. The food is fresh. The prices reasonable and the ambiance low-key and unhurried. One gripe tho - the new lighting makes the place look like a submarine. Previously they had umbrella lamp-shades which added a softened hue. Now the glare is cold and blue. Lunch-times are heaving here mainly because of the tasty sushi and sashimi lunch boxes they whip up in a trice for the hungry salarymen at under Â£7 they're good value. The sushi is excellent and won't flatten you wallet. Some of the side dishes are also top notch - spring rolls - chicken with lemon - edame beans - they're all good. They also serve excellent Japanese green tea for Â£1.50 a pot. I wish this place was my local I'd be there everyday. Nestled in the buzzing market alley, Lower Marsh is a fine, fine Japanese restaurant that puts Wagamama and the fast food Jap clip joints to shame. The food is fresh. The prices reasonable and the ambiance low-key and unhurried. One gripe tho - the new lighting makes the place look like a submarine. Previously they had umbrella lamp-shades which added a softened hue. Now the glare is cold and blue. Lunch-times are heaving here mainly because of the tasty sushi and sashimi lunch boxes they whip up in a trice for the hungry salarymen at under Â£7 they're good value. The sushi is excellent and won't flatten you wallet. Some of the side dishes are also top notch - spring rolls - chicken with lemon - edame beans - they're all good. They also serve excellent Japanese green tea for Â£1.50 a pot. I wish this place was my local I'd be there everyday.

Novotel London Waterloo - Disappointing by betageek

betageek — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 11:35:59 +0000

Review by betageek

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 7793 1010

Website: http://www.novotel.com

Tags: restaurant, bar / lounge bar, safe

I was booked into the Novotel London Waterloo for an overnight business trip. On the plus side, the room was spacious and comfortable. However, both checking in and checking out took an unconscionable length of time - check in was delayed by missing information, and check out by a graceless member of staff who denied knowledge of the arrangements that I had made less than eight hours earlier. Worse yet was ordering a room service breakfast, knowing that I had to leave early, and it never turning up, despite a phone call to query. When I raised this at check out, I was told that these things happen, and was offered no apology. Walking out of a hotel hungry and irritated is a poor start to the day, and I would not recommend this hotel.I was booked into the Novotel London Waterloo for an overnight business trip. On the plus side, the room was spacious and comfortable. However, both checking in and checking out took an unconscionable length of time - check in was delayed by missing information, and check out by a graceless member of staff who denied knowledge of the arrangements that I had made less than eight hours earlier. Worse yet was ordering a room service breakfast, knowing that I had to leave early, and it never turning up, despite a phone call to query. When I raised this at check out, I was told that these things happen, and was offered no apology. Walking out of a hotel hungry and irritated is a poor start to the day, and I would not recommend this hotel.

The White Hart - Relaxing, chilled pub by peacefrog

peacefrog — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 11:14:32 +0000

Review by peacefrog

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7735 1061

Website: http://www.renaissancepubs.co.uk/TWH/index.htm

Tags: food, pub, gastro pub

I like this place, mainly because it is a chilled pub where you can have a decent pint (their Landlord beer is great!) in a not too crowded environment.
I like this place, mainly because it is a chilled pub where you can have a decent pint (their Landlord beer is great!) in a not too crowded environment.

Lye Torng Thai Restaurant & Bar - Great Thai near Imperial War Museum by Chub

Chub — Sat, 15 Dec 2007 12:49:58 +0000

Review by Chub

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7793 7979

Website: http://www.lyetorng.com

Tags: bar, takeaway, thai

This is a great place near E & C tube and War Museum. With a bar it has a cheapo lunch menu starting at Â£4.95 and served until 5pm every day. My favourite is the prawn Penang which is quite delicious and aromatic. There are also masses of Thai snacks. On the main menu my favourite dish is beef Massaman, which looks rather uninspiring but is in fact delicious, and plentiful - soft tender beef chunks served in an aromatic gravy with potatoes and best eaten with coconut rice.

The puds are simple but delicious. Banana cake is home made and there is often fresh mango.
There is a good wine list including two very good dessert wines. This is a great place near E & C tube and War Museum. With a bar it has a cheapo lunch menu starting at Â£4.95 and served until 5pm every day. My favourite is the prawn Penang which is quite delicious and aromatic. There are also masses of Thai snacks. On the main menu my favourite dish is beef Massaman, which looks rather uninspiring but is in fact delicious, and plentiful - soft tender beef chunks served in an aromatic gravy with potatoes and best eaten with coconut rice.

The puds are simple but delicious. Banana cake is home made and there is often fresh mango.
There is a good wine list including two very good dessert wines.

Oasis - THAI AND GREAT BREAKFAST by la_tempete

la_tempete — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 22:16:31 +0000

Review by la_tempete

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7735 8915

Tags: cosy, good brew, takeaway

Great hangover buster breakfasts for under a fiver and excellent authentic Thai dishes cooked to orderGreat hangover buster breakfasts for under a fiver and excellent authentic Thai dishes cooked to order