Latest reviews for Restaurants in Waterloo, London, United Kingdom

Livebait - A very dead mussel tale by Bowgreave

Bowgreave — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 11:34:33 +0000

Review by Bowgreave

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 7928 7211

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

My wife and I called for lunch, having rather enjoyed a dinner here previously that would have been worthy of at least a three star review. I ordered fish and chips whilst she had mussels. Generous girl that she is, she passed across a mussel before starting to tuck in herself. As soon as it landed in my mouth, a putrid, vile taste spread across my tongue as she muttered to me 'I think something is off in this sauce'. She was right, the extremely dead creature I had spit out had tainted the whole dish, big style. We explained the problem to the waitress who returned from the kitchen with a message from the chef, to use the term loosely, that mussels do not open unless they were alive. This one was certainly open and had clearly died open, quite some time ago. I gave her the offending corpse and suggested they sniffed it as it didn't just smell, it had a really vile stink about it that suggested it hadn't departed this life recently. My fingers smelled despite a thorough wash and the taste lingered for days despite copious mouthwashings.
Getting back on the old horse, I have tried the odd one since but would need some expert counselling to get me to order another dish. A bit over dramatic? No, I'm a big, rough Lancashire lad who will try anything, here or overseas. It really was that bad.
Oh yes and there was an insult to injury bit; with no manager apparently present to complain to and being left with no appetite for any offered replacements (alongside a slight loss of confidence in the kitchen hygene standards as well as the talented personnel lurking therein) we took a comments card home and posted it off with our frank views on their food and their staff.
Very effective that proved to be, as their only response was to add my email to the special offers list for their entire chain, none of whose doors we have darkened since.My wife and I called for lunch, having rather enjoyed a dinner here previously that would have been worthy of at least a three star review. I ordered fish and chips whilst she had mussels. Generous girl that she is, she passed across a mussel before starting to tuck in herself. As soon as it landed in my mouth, a putrid, vile taste spread across my tongue as she muttered to me 'I think something is off in this sauce'. She was right, the extremely dead creature I had spit out had tainted the whole dish, big style. We explained the problem to the waitress who returned from the kitchen with a message from the chef, to use the term loosely, that mussels do not open unless they were alive. This one was certainly open and had clearly died open, quite some time ago. I gave her the offending corpse and suggested they sniffed it as it didn't just smell, it had a really vile stink about it that suggested it hadn't departed this life recently. My fingers smelled despite a thorough wash and the taste lingered for days despite copious mouthwashings.
Getting back on the old horse, I have tried the odd one since but would need some expert counselling to get me to order another dish. A bit over dramatic? No, I'm a big, rough Lancashire lad who will try anything, here or overseas. It really was that bad.
Oh yes and there was an insult to injury bit; with no manager apparently present to complain to and being left with no appetite for any offered replacements (alongside a slight loss of confidence in the kitchen hygene standards as well as the talented personnel lurking therein) we took a comments card home and posted it off with our frank views on their food and their staff.
Very effective that proved to be, as their only response was to add my email to the special offers list for their entire chain, none of whose doors we have darkened since.

Tas Restaurant - Fancy a change of spices? by Bowgreave

Bowgreave — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 13:51:53 +0000

Review by Bowgreave

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7928 2111

Website: http://www.tasrestaurant.com

Tags: turkish, good value, lively

Probably would never have made it here if the Anchor and Hope across the road hadn't been so full, but I'm very glad we did. We have been here and to the sister place on Borough High Street quite a few times and never been disappointed. Particularly after a pint, its nice to replenish the old spice levels.
A Turkish friend tells me it is not as authentic as some places and calls it Turkish food geared towards UK palates; that's fine by me though and hardly different than the Indian or Chinese places that line our High Streets.
Go for the specials if you like a big, spicy plate of meaty goodies. We'd probably go more often if they had a bigger menu as, good as it is, its nice to have a change.Probably would never have made it here if the Anchor and Hope across the road hadn't been so full, but I'm very glad we did. We have been here and to the sister place on Borough High Street quite a few times and never been disappointed. Particularly after a pint, its nice to replenish the old spice levels.
A Turkish friend tells me it is not as authentic as some places and calls it Turkish food geared towards UK palates; that's fine by me though and hardly different than the Indian or Chinese places that line our High Streets.
Go for the specials if you like a big, spicy plate of meaty goodies. We'd probably go more often if they had a bigger menu as, good as it is, its nice to have a change.

Canteen - Excellent service but over priced by HelenXXX

HelenXXX — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 12:30:54 +0000

Review by HelenXXX

Rating: 2.00

Phone: 0845 686 1122

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

Tags: british, lively, expensive

We had an early evening meal on new years eve. The service was excellent, friendly, attentive. The food was good but ordinary, something we could have easily cooked at home and it was overpriced. Given the prices I'd expect the dishes to have something a little extra or different.We had an early evening meal on new years eve. The service was excellent, friendly, attentive. The food was good but ordinary, something we could have easily cooked at home and it was overpriced. Given the prices I'd expect the dishes to have something a little extra or different.

Blossom - Not overwhelming, but not bad by curlyfries

curlyfries — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 23:42:01 +0000

Review by curlyfries

Rating: 3.00

Tags: japanese, lively, crowded

We had to queue for a few minutes at Blossom last week as it was pretty packed (but then it was Friday lunch in the city). The staff were very helpful at repeatedly telling us we had only five minutes, two minutes, one minute, three minutes to wait, and were very efficient at taking our order, too, although how I was meant to have chosen when I'd only had the menu for fifteen seconds I'm not entirely sure.

Still, when we finally got to sit down at our shared bench, and seeing as we were having a "meeting" on my mate's expenses, we went a bit to town on the ordering. It's Korean-Japanese, this place, but I was all out for Japanese and sushi last week. So for starters we went for deep fried chilli squid, which presented itself as tiny rings of very tasty breadcrumb-coated business; the allegedly-pork gyoza were crunchy, cold and entirely tasteless; and the duck salad was worth travelling to Moorgate and back on its own: divine rosy pink slices of melt-in-the-mouth breast draped lovingly over a leafy glass noodle salad. The main-course sushi was boring, however: we both ordered the Makimono selection and were completely uninspired by bland vegetable rolls, salmon/avocado rolls and some other things that were rather heavily sprinkled with bright orange roe, although the tuna maki wasn't half bad.

On the upside, Blossom was not revoltingly expensive (and having not paid for it, at least I felt I hadn't wasted my money on the sushi): all that food and a couple of freshly-squeezed fruit drinks came to 38 quid. It's not as if I'm frequently in the area but if I do ever find myself passing through I'd be tempted to nip in for a couple of duck salads, and I'm curious about the great steaming Korean stew-type things that were going on at the next table. Still, I suppose if you work that way it's an easy option for a fast and relatively cheap tasty meal in the lively company of lunching suits.We had to queue for a few minutes at Blossom last week as it was pretty packed (but then it was Friday lunch in the city). The staff were very helpful at repeatedly telling us we had only five minutes, two minutes, one minute, three minutes to wait, and were very efficient at taking our order, too, although how I was meant to have chosen when I'd only had the menu for fifteen seconds I'm not entirely sure.

Still, when we finally got to sit down at our shared bench, and seeing as we were having a "meeting" on my mate's expenses, we went a bit to town on the ordering. It's Korean-Japanese, this place, but I was all out for Japanese and sushi last week. So for starters we went for deep fried chilli squid, which presented itself as tiny rings of very tasty breadcrumb-coated business; the allegedly-pork gyoza were crunchy, cold and entirely tasteless; and the duck salad was worth travelling to Moorgate and back on its own: divine rosy pink slices of melt-in-the-mouth breast draped lovingly over a leafy glass noodle salad. The main-course sushi was boring, however: we both ordered the Makimono selection and were completely uninspired by bland vegetable rolls, salmon/avocado rolls and some other things that were rather heavily sprinkled with bright orange roe, although the tuna maki wasn't half bad.

On the upside, Blossom was not revoltingly expensive (and having not paid for it, at least I felt I hadn't wasted my money on the sushi): all that food and a couple of freshly-squeezed fruit drinks came to 38 quid. It's not as if I'm frequently in the area but if I do ever find myself passing through I'd be tempted to nip in for a couple of duck salads, and I'm curious about the great steaming Korean stew-type things that were going on at the next table. Still, I suppose if you work that way it's an easy option for a fast and relatively cheap tasty meal in the lively company of lunching suits.

Waterloo Brasserie - Dire by treefroggirl

treefroggirl — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 11:23:57 +0000

Review by treefroggirl

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 7960 0202

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

Tags: french, brasserie, pretentious

Went for lunch before a play at the Old Vic. Service couldn't be worse than if they tried. Trust me, don't go.Went for lunch before a play at the Old Vic. Service couldn't be worse than if they tried. Trust me, don't go.

Ha-Noi - Good food by bron99

bron99 — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 16:36:28 +0000

Review by bron99

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7928 5415

Tags: vietnamese, cheap eat, family & home feel

I have been eating at Ha Noi for years - and though it very occasionally is not as good as it could be, that's a very rare event. It is run by a friendly Vietnamese couple, he is the chef and she is front of house. The menu is full of light and interesting dishes, sizzling platters and sublime crystal spring rolls. The hot Singapore noodles are always good. It's the best place in a bit of a wasteland - just far enough from Waterloo station not to be in commuter hell. They do takeaways and home deliveries if you're local! It's easy to eat a lot but difficult to spend a lot.
I have been eating at Ha Noi for years - and though it very occasionally is not as good as it could be, that's a very rare event. It is run by a friendly Vietnamese couple, he is the chef and she is front of house. The menu is full of light and interesting dishes, sizzling platters and sublime crystal spring rolls. The hot Singapore noodles are always good. It's the best place in a bit of a wasteland - just far enough from Waterloo station not to be in commuter hell. They do takeaways and home deliveries if you're local! It's easy to eat a lot but difficult to spend a lot.

Rotunda Lounge - average hotel lounge..... by RyleParker

RyleParker — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 12:59:54 +0000

Review by RyleParker

Rating: 2.00

Website: http://www.marriott.co.uk/hotels/travel/lonch-lond

Tags: romantic, international, good value

The Rotunda is just a typical/good standard hotel lounge - nothing exceptional, similar to many others and offering average fare.

Views may be of interest to tourists who will pay the 5* hotel prices (e.g. one person, bed for the night without breakfast - Â£190) for the privilege.

People who know the Westminister/South Bank area will recommend numerous eateries and quiet oases which offer better (quality and value for money) and much more varied food - at a fraction of the Mariott's prices.

Some already have on this fine site; some others (this fine reviewer, for instance) already have to spend far too much time in the busy - and soulless - lounges of international hotels in city centres.The Rotunda is just a typical/good standard hotel lounge - nothing exceptional, similar to many others and offering average fare.

Views may be of interest to tourists who will pay the 5* hotel prices (e.g. one person, bed for the night without breakfast - Â£190) for the privilege.

People who know the Westminister/South Bank area will recommend numerous eateries and quiet oases which offer better (quality and value for money) and much more varied food - at a fraction of the Mariott's prices.

Some already have on this fine site; some others (this fine reviewer, for instance) already have to spend far too much time in the busy - and soulless - lounges of international hotels in city centres.

Inshoku - Inshoku by jan08

jan08 — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:44:30 +0000

Review by jan08

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7928 2311

Tags: japanese, cheap eat, lively

Located on Lower Marsh, close to Waterloo railway station, this low key restaurant is very popular as a lunch stop for local workers. This restaurant has a very relaxed feel (you do not have to use chopsticks for instance!) and is great value for money if you go for a set-lunch menu. Decor is a little dated, but for the prices they charge it's expected. I can recommend the Bento boxes but the sushi is also good, and for a filling, cheap bite, go for yakisoba. If there's one negative, it's that the staff appear to be so busy that they can come across as distant rather than friendly.Located on Lower Marsh, close to Waterloo railway station, this low key restaurant is very popular as a lunch stop for local workers. This restaurant has a very relaxed feel (you do not have to use chopsticks for instance!) and is great value for money if you go for a set-lunch menu. Decor is a little dated, but for the prices they charge it's expected. I can recommend the Bento boxes but the sushi is also good, and for a filling, cheap bite, go for yakisoba. If there's one negative, it's that the staff appear to be so busy that they can come across as distant rather than friendly.

Cubana - Cubanas by jan08

jan08 — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:24:56 +0000

Review by jan08

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7928 8778

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

Tags: lively, good value, crowded

The best things about this bar is the Cuban decor (complete with posters of Che) and the lively atmosphere -if that's what you're after. They do a wide range of cocktails and Happy Hour is a good time to go as otherwise they can get expensive. The food is ok if you just want to snack - it's definitely not fine dining! But it is reasonably priced. Downside is the lack of tables for such a big place - it easily feels cramped especially when a party has been booked in. And the outside seating is on the edge of a car park - nice!The best things about this bar is the Cuban decor (complete with posters of Che) and the lively atmosphere -if that's what you're after. They do a wide range of cocktails and Happy Hour is a good time to go as otherwise they can get expensive. The food is ok if you just want to snack - it's definitely not fine dining! But it is reasonably priced. Downside is the lack of tables for such a big place - it easily feels cramped especially when a party has been booked in. And the outside seating is on the edge of a car park - nice!

Thai Silk - mmmmm.... by richfair

richfair — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 11:28:48 +0000

Review by richfair

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7633 9886

Tags: thai, vegetarian dishes

I love Thai Silk! I had the prawn pad thai, which I know isn't all that adventurous when it comes to Thai food, but I thought it was delicious. The staff every time I've been to Thai Silk have been very friendly and accommodating and have always served us with a smile, and the restaurant has been very nicely kept.

The atmosphere is very warm and inviting and I've never had to wait very long for a table. I've brought people there several times and every time they love it! If you're looking for a nice clean and friendly Thai restaurant, check out Thai Silk.I love Thai Silk! I had the prawn pad thai, which I know isn't all that adventurous when it comes to Thai food, but I thought it was delicious. The staff every time I've been to Thai Silk have been very friendly and accommodating and have always served us with a smile, and the restaurant has been very nicely kept.

The atmosphere is very warm and inviting and I've never had to wait very long for a table. I've brought people there several times and every time they love it! If you're looking for a nice clean and friendly Thai restaurant, check out Thai Silk.

Las Iguanas - Great Mexican/Brazilian South Bank restaurant by stoduk

stoduk — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 19:38:31 +0000

Review by stoduk

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7620 1328

Tags: brazilian, lively, crowded

Las Iguanas is a small chain of Mexican restaurants (well, actually Brazilian I think, but seems to be suitably similar) - this example being on the South Bank within easy walking distance of Waterloo or Embankment stations.

This site has a great atmosphere for drinking - especially in the Summer where you can sit outside and watch the throngs on city drinkers enjoying the sun. As well as the obvious beers and wines, they do some excellent cocktails - and quite often have good prices on these (2 for 1 Happy hours, deals on jugs, etc.).

However - the food it what I really come to this place for, being a big lover of Mexican food. They have all the usual Mexican staples (Buritto, Taco, Chimichanga, etc.) all done very well - but also have some less traditional Mexican foods that are worth trying. In particular, they do a very good fillet steak if you are in a meat eating mood, or they do an excellent tuna steak with some spicy salsa.

I don't live in London, but come in to visit this place regularly - which is a sign of how good the food (and prices) are! If you like mexican I can also recommend Wahaca restaurant - which is quite a different style, and harder to get in to, but also serves some excellent food.Las Iguanas is a small chain of Mexican restaurants (well, actually Brazilian I think, but seems to be suitably similar) - this example being on the South Bank within easy walking distance of Waterloo or Embankment stations.

This site has a great atmosphere for drinking - especially in the Summer where you can sit outside and watch the throngs on city drinkers enjoying the sun. As well as the obvious beers and wines, they do some excellent cocktails - and quite often have good prices on these (2 for 1 Happy hours, deals on jugs, etc.).

However - the food it what I really come to this place for, being a big lover of Mexican food. They have all the usual Mexican staples (Buritto, Taco, Chimichanga, etc.) all done very well - but also have some less traditional Mexican foods that are worth trying. In particular, they do a very good fillet steak if you are in a meat eating mood, or they do an excellent tuna steak with some spicy salsa.

I don't live in London, but come in to visit this place regularly - which is a sign of how good the food (and prices) are! If you like mexican I can also recommend Wahaca restaurant - which is quite a different style, and harder to get in to, but also serves some excellent food.

Giraffe - by sjsoutherner

sjsoutherner — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 14:55:00 +0000

Review by sjsoutherner

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7928 2004

Website: http://www.giraffe.net

Tags: good value, international, lively

The only two words that describe how I feel about this restaurant are: LOVE IT! I've read through other reviews and I agree that this place can sometimes be a little pricey and is definitely more of a family themed restaurant than relaxed trendy place to go for a long lunch. However, for good food and a great atmosphere I thoroughly recommend it. I've been many times at all times of the day and enjoy there casual atmosphere for brunch, lunch or dinner. I love their evening cocktail combinations and value menus for dinner. Thoroughly recommend a visit for a weekend brunch also as their breakfast menu is delightful (especially when topped off with one of their gorgeous smoothies). It can sometimes be a little noisey and often at main meal times there is a queue to be seated. However, I've always found the wait worthwhile.

A big thumbs up to a great restaurant in a great location ;0)The only two words that describe how I feel about this restaurant are: LOVE IT! I've read through other reviews and I agree that this place can sometimes be a little pricey and is definitely more of a family themed restaurant than relaxed trendy place to go for a long lunch. However, for good food and a great atmosphere I thoroughly recommend it. I've been many times at all times of the day and enjoy there casual atmosphere for brunch, lunch or dinner. I love their evening cocktail combinations and value menus for dinner. Thoroughly recommend a visit for a weekend brunch also as their breakfast menu is delightful (especially when topped off with one of their gorgeous smoothies). It can sometimes be a little noisey and often at main meal times there is a queue to be seated. However, I've always found the wait worthwhile.

A big thumbs up to a great restaurant in a great location ;0)

Culture Grub - Love this place! by jes1uk

jes1uk — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 20:08:17 +0000

Review by jes1uk

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7928 9972

Website: http://www.culturegrub.com

Tags: chinese, crowded, good value

This is one of my favourite Chinese restaurants.
They serve large portions of good quality food at a very reasonable price. The service is efficient and friendly, and they don't try and rush you out of the restaurant once you have eaten.
This is a smallish restaurant and gets very busy at peak times; there is a maximum of 4 place settings per table. One dish I'd recommend is the Treasure Rice. There is also a complimentary Jasmine tea available with your meal if you ask for it.
The restaurant is very close to Waterloo station and Southwark underground station.This is one of my favourite Chinese restaurants.
They serve large portions of good quality food at a very reasonable price. The service is efficient and friendly, and they don't try and rush you out of the restaurant once you have eaten.
This is a smallish restaurant and gets very busy at peak times; there is a maximum of 4 place settings per table. One dish I'd recommend is the Treasure Rice. There is also a complimentary Jasmine tea available with your meal if you ask for it.
The restaurant is very close to Waterloo station and Southwark underground station.

Diyarbakir Restaurant Ltd - Not a good experience by izolda

izolda — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:19:19 +0000

Review by izolda

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 88092777

Tags: turkish, cheap eat

Had food poisoning after visiting this place which lasted a week, so wouldn't recommend it to anyone unless immune to the pathogens that frequent these sorts of places. This is a run of the mill turkish kebbab joint cum restaurant that I made the mistake of visiting when I first arrived in the UK. The cooked food is pre-prepared and is reheated - I actually wouldn't put it past them topping up the same three dishes daily, which is unjygienic to put it mildly. The food didn't taste bad though, and a lot of the locals were in enjoying a meal which is what attracted me and my friend to the restaurant. However given the fact that we both came down with food poisoning this was obviously not a coincidence. To be avoided.Had food poisoning after visiting this place which lasted a week, so wouldn't recommend it to anyone unless immune to the pathogens that frequent these sorts of places. This is a run of the mill turkish kebbab joint cum restaurant that I made the mistake of visiting when I first arrived in the UK. The cooked food is pre-prepared and is reheated - I actually wouldn't put it past them topping up the same three dishes daily, which is unjygienic to put it mildly. The food didn't taste bad though, and a lot of the locals were in enjoying a meal which is what attracted me and my friend to the restaurant. However given the fact that we both came down with food poisoning this was obviously not a coincidence. To be avoided.

Meson Don Felipe - Mi Casa Su Casa by chrisp

chrisp — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 17:15:13 +0000

Review by chrisp

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7928 3237

Tags: spanish, lively, crowded

One of my favourite places when I first started eating out in London 3 or 4 years ago, but has since been rather eclipsed by the likes of Brindisa and Barrafina, who do the tapas thing with so much more class and finesse. That's not to say there's nothing to like at Don Felipe - their albondigas are great, and last time I went they had lovely fresh calamari - but considering the effort to get in (like any tapas joint it can be a struggle in peak hours) you can probably do better. Brindisa is a short walk away in Borough Market, and beats them hands down I'm afraid.One of my favourite places when I first started eating out in London 3 or 4 years ago, but has since been rather eclipsed by the likes of Brindisa and Barrafina, who do the tapas thing with so much more class and finesse. That's not to say there's nothing to like at Don Felipe - their albondigas are great, and last time I went they had lovely fresh calamari - but considering the effort to get in (like any tapas joint it can be a struggle in peak hours) you can probably do better. Brindisa is a short walk away in Borough Market, and beats them hands down I'm afraid.

Masters Super Fish - Super! by chrisp

chrisp — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 11:19:59 +0000

Review by chrisp

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7928 6924

Tags: seafood, takeaway, cheap eat

It's a clichÃ©, and one you will hear often repeated by Northern expats around these parts, that you can't get a decent Fish and Chips in London. Of course, given that deep fried fish and chipped potatoes is hardly the most complex takeaway food, there are plenty of places in London that do a pretty passable F&C, and equally, like anywhere else in the country there are far, far more that do a terrible one. Given that, in the interests of my pocket and my pulmonary artery, I'm not about to try every chippy I come across in the capital just in case it turns out to be good, I did a bit of research and last Saturday turned up at Masters Superfish in Waterloo at the very 'Northern Chippy' time of 5:30pm.

Considered one of the few "real" chippies in the capital (along with The Golden Hind in Marylebone and Seafresh in Victoria, amongst others), Masters has built up quite a reputation amongst foodies and bloggers and I was quite excited to see what the fuss was about. First impressions of the room were pleasingly authentic - plain, no-nonsense dÃ©cor with a little takeaway hatch on the way in and - delightfully - like any good Northern chippy a wall containing fading pictures of faded light entertainment stars who have popped in for a photo opportunity over the years. The menu was slightly more extensive than I was used to up north, with more premium options such as Dover Sole and Halibut alongside the traditional Cod and Haddock fillets. We all went for fish and chips.

First up was served a free plate of prawns each, which were sweet and tasty but some of our party were put off by the orange eggs - it must be the time of year. Also dished up extra were some lovely tasty pickles: a large white onion and a sweet gherkin, top marks again for those.

Fortunately, the Main Event, when it arrived, didn't disappoint either. Lovely crunchy chips in all sorts of sizes, and a healthy slab of flaky white fish covered in a dark, dense batter. If I'm going to be picky, the fish was probably slightly overcooked - the extra crunchy batter wasn't to everyone's tastes, and the fish was just a smidgen on the dry side - but these were minor quibbles and I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy my plate of food.

I'd be happy to call Masters Superfish my local chippy, and once you add in the London markup it wasn't too expensive either. It's understandably popular, and although our fellow diners in the early evening consisted of an elderly couple and a table of Japanese tourists timidly extracting their fish from its batter and eating it separately, I am told the queue can stretch out of the door. In an area of London becoming famous for its varied and excellent dining options (The Anchor and Hope, Meson Don Felipe), Masters can hold its head high. I'll certainly be back.It's a clichÃ©, and one you will hear often repeated by Northern expats around these parts, that you can't get a decent Fish and Chips in London. Of course, given that deep fried fish and chipped potatoes is hardly the most complex takeaway food, there are plenty of places in London that do a pretty passable F&C, and equally, like anywhere else in the country there are far, far more that do a terrible one. Given that, in the interests of my pocket and my pulmonary artery, I'm not about to try every chippy I come across in the capital just in case it turns out to be good, I did a bit of research and last Saturday turned up at Masters Superfish in Waterloo at the very 'Northern Chippy' time of 5:30pm.

Considered one of the few "real" chippies in the capital (along with The Golden Hind in Marylebone and Seafresh in Victoria, amongst others), Masters has built up quite a reputation amongst foodies and bloggers and I was quite excited to see what the fuss was about. First impressions of the room were pleasingly authentic - plain, no-nonsense dÃ©cor with a little takeaway hatch on the way in and - delightfully - like any good Northern chippy a wall containing fading pictures of faded light entertainment stars who have popped in for a photo opportunity over the years. The menu was slightly more extensive than I was used to up north, with more premium options such as Dover Sole and Halibut alongside the traditional Cod and Haddock fillets. We all went for fish and chips.

First up was served a free plate of prawns each, which were sweet and tasty but some of our party were put off by the orange eggs - it must be the time of year. Also dished up extra were some lovely tasty pickles: a large white onion and a sweet gherkin, top marks again for those.

Fortunately, the Main Event, when it arrived, didn't disappoint either. Lovely crunchy chips in all sorts of sizes, and a healthy slab of flaky white fish covered in a dark, dense batter. If I'm going to be picky, the fish was probably slightly overcooked - the extra crunchy batter wasn't to everyone's tastes, and the fish was just a smidgen on the dry side - but these were minor quibbles and I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy my plate of food.

I'd be happy to call Masters Superfish my local chippy, and once you add in the London markup it wasn't too expensive either. It's understandably popular, and although our fellow diners in the early evening consisted of an elderly couple and a table of Japanese tourists timidly extracting their fish from its batter and eating it separately, I am told the queue can stretch out of the door. In an area of London becoming famous for its varied and excellent dining options (The Anchor and Hope, Meson Don Felipe), Masters can hold its head high. I'll certainly be back.

Feng Sushi - Average sushi at South Bank by sue

sue — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 13:21:24 +0000

Review by sue

Rating: 2.00

Phone: 020 7261 0001

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

Tags: south bank, japanese, friendly

Arriving at South Bank at 8pm on a Friday night I didn't like our chances of finding somewhere in the vicinity for a quick dinner. The only place without a long queue was Feng Sushi, so sushi it was.

I hovered by, and then acquired one of the small tables at the front of the restaurant on Festival Terrace. Great place for people watching as this is a busy pedestrian thoroughfare, though also a bit of a wind tunnel it seemed.

We ordered a mixture of Nigiri sushi, Maki sushi, and some Brown rice sushi. Presentation was fine, quality and flavours were average, with the salmon being a bit bland.

Service was friendly and a mix of efficiency and forgetfulness, the latter working in our favour when they forgot to charge us for any of our drinks.Arriving at South Bank at 8pm on a Friday night I didn't like our chances of finding somewhere in the vicinity for a quick dinner. The only place without a long queue was Feng Sushi, so sushi it was.

I hovered by, and then acquired one of the small tables at the front of the restaurant on Festival Terrace. Great place for people watching as this is a busy pedestrian thoroughfare, though also a bit of a wind tunnel it seemed.

We ordered a mixture of Nigiri sushi, Maki sushi, and some Brown rice sushi. Presentation was fine, quality and flavours were average, with the salmon being a bit bland.

Service was friendly and a mix of efficiency and forgetfulness, the latter working in our favour when they forgot to charge us for any of our drinks.

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.

Caprini Restaurant - Intimate Old Fashioned Italian by Chub

Chub — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 09:55:29 +0000

Review by Chub

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7928 6645

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

Tags: italian, good value, family & home feel

This reminds me of family cafes in Barcelona which are not at all pretentious, with good food and good service. I have been here on several occasions. I went yesterday with a couple of friends. We asked for, and got, tap water with ice and lemon, and a large glass of red house wine. One of us had whitebait for a starter, the other had tricolore salad and I had garlic prawns, with some delicious toasted garlic bread. I followed with liver and saute potatoes and vegetables, perfectly cooked, and the others had chicken, which was all delicious. The service was attentive without being obtrusive. We could not manage desserts so settled for cappucinos to follow. My friends were there for the first time, and loved the place. It is easier to find a table on a Sunday as it can get packed during the week.This reminds me of family cafes in Barcelona which are not at all pretentious, with good food and good service. I have been here on several occasions. I went yesterday with a couple of friends. We asked for, and got, tap water with ice and lemon, and a large glass of red house wine. One of us had whitebait for a starter, the other had tricolore salad and I had garlic prawns, with some delicious toasted garlic bread. I followed with liver and saute potatoes and vegetables, perfectly cooked, and the others had chicken, which was all delicious. The service was attentive without being obtrusive. We could not manage desserts so settled for cappucinos to follow. My friends were there for the first time, and loved the place. It is easier to find a table on a Sunday as it can get packed during the week.

Indigo - New Indian/Bangladeshi in Waterloo by jamiewallace

jamiewallace — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:26:09 +0000

Review by jamiewallace

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7593 0009

Website: http://www.indigorestaurant.net/

Tags: indian, business, good value

Just opened on Stamford Street. Sadly the atmosphere was pretty cold and soulless when we went - just one other set of diners at 10.15 on a Saturday evening.

Not for party animals.

But the food was really pretty good, and definitely plan to go back to try out more options. Staff friendly too.

Give them a go - independent restaurants are getting rarer in Waterloo as the chains move in.Just opened on Stamford Street. Sadly the atmosphere was pretty cold and soulless when we went - just one other set of diners at 10.15 on a Saturday evening.

Not for party animals.

But the food was really pretty good, and definitely plan to go back to try out more options. Staff friendly too.

Give them a go - independent restaurants are getting rarer in Waterloo as the chains move in.