»Never say never«
82-84 St. Martin's Lane, Charing Cross, London WC2N 4AG
jax
last updated on 03-05-2009:
Totally reliable and delivers on atmosphere, food and drink. This place ticks over like clockwork…or at least that’s how it seems. They’re probably paddling like heck in the kitchen to keep up with the orders coming in thick and fast - but it works. I’ve been to Browns on three occasions - Hen night, pre-theatre and birthday night and I’ve had a great evening, partly due to the food (it’s perfect for that group night out or dinner for two if you’re off to see a play or two). I had the chicken livers and brioche - very morish. Followed by the tagliatelle with crayfish and chorizo. It was tasty, just could have done with a bit more of the crayfish and chorizo and a little less pasta.
The cocktails were just perfect. Mojito, Margharita, Pinacolada, I think we tried others too.
If you want everything bar a quiet cosy night. Then this place will fit the bill. Talking of bill - that wasn’t bad either.
2 people thought this review was helpful
276-288 Lavender Hill, Clapham junction, London SW11 1LJ
jax
last updated on 14-04-2009:
A friend had suggested the Revolution Bar for a Birthday night celebration venue. On entering, the place provided was nicely busy and the atmosphere was welcoming - not pretentious, but not chavvy either. A good mix of groups. The range of drinks on offer were good, without being over the top and the prices were pretty reasonable too I thought.
I can’t comment on the food, the group I was with were drinking only.
The place has a DJ and a little space to let down your hair and have a dance, but by all accounts, most of the clientelle seemed to be enjoying the music where they stood - be it on the 'dance’ floor or by the bar.
At this point, I just have to raise a little disappointment regarding the lack of more up-to-date tracks behind the decks. Most of the tunes were mid to late nineties stuff, which is OK, but something more recent would have been good to add to the mix I feel.
Otherwise a good night and I’m sure I’ll be back again soon.
2 people thought this review was helpful
Outwood Lane, Coulsdon North, London CR5 3NP
jax
last updated on 22-03-2009:
(updated on 24-03-2009)
I’m sort of reluctant to say too much about the Ramblers Rest in case it causes a rush to try it’s gorgeous ambience, delicious food and drink and the location isn’t bad either.
It’s been given a much needed face lift, bringing it into the 21st Century and the same goes for the quality of the menu. As soon as you step foot through the door, you feel welcome - the staff are sociable and give the feeling that they like working there.
The decor is contemporary without feeling stark - in fact it feels extremely comfortable both in the main bar area and the restaurant. Great lounging chairs and cosy corners compliment the muted tones and wooden floors. This isn’t a 'spit and sawdust’ kinda joint, but it doesn’t turn it’s nose up at the punters either.
The food as I mentioned before is just delicious. Great flavours, not too much to choose from but a perfect balance of everything to suit everyone. Who could ask for more?
And when it came to paying the bill, I felt that I’d got value for money and service that was offered.
So please - for my sake, don’t rush there too quickly. It’s our little secret OK
2 people thought this review was helpful
72-74 High Street, London BR3 1ED
jax
last updated on 26-01-2009:
A totally great bar experience whether there’s 4 or 14 of you going out for the night. This place is stylish but not over pretentious. The mood is classy and wants to please from every angle. The music certainly set a good tone too - R&B but not in your face and not so loud you couldn’t have a conversation as busy as the place became (which was busy, but still felt comfortable).
I seriously liked Friends of mine and would make it a stop given any opportunity.
Unfortunately I’m unable to comment on the food as we just had drinks, but it smelled good and I only saw empty plates as they were whisked away by the staff.
2 people thought this review was helpful
26 High Street, Croydon, London CR0 1GT
jax
last updated on 31-12-2008:
You know I’m a firm believer in the philosophy “Does what it says on the tin” and Nandos (Croydon) does this and more. The menu tells you what you need to know without going overboard, the staff are helpful and very friendly and when the food arrives (which was fast at my last visit), it’s well cooked and tastes great. The background music was entertaining - Portuguese but with a Christmas slant. Listening to 'Deck the Halls’ was a nice touch with a latin feel, brought a smile to my face.
All-in-all, it’s unassuming, great value, great food and great staff. Maybe some of the central London restaurants I’ve visited lately should take a similar approach to their service. Crazy Bear you might learn something, but then again perhaps that’s asking too much.
3 people thought this review was helpful