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I was a bit hesitant to head to Barrica after reading a few negative reviews on some London foodie blogs...

However, a friend of mine was in town and in that area, so I decided we should take the plunge and head to Barrica to give it a try. I had a craving for tapas that wouldn't quit so I was hoping this place would fit the bill.

Upon entering the place, I was already impressed with the friendly atmosphere and the hospitality of the host (Manager?) who recommended I sit at one of the bar tables to wait for my friend. You see, I hadn't reserved and just walked in at 7:00pm and clearly this is a "reservations" type of place. Instead of the "oh, you didn't book?!?" attitude that I tend to get at these types of places, the host was nothing but friendly and accommodating.

I was really pleased when I asked for a wine recommendation and my server told me that two of the wines were excellent and offered me tastes of both before settling on my choice. The complimentary bread basket with olive oil was great - either I was really hungry or that oil was laced with some kind of illicit substance (or both!) because I gobbled it up!

The wine was delicious and the tapas were too, though the portions were a bit on the small side, even for tapas! (I know, I know, they're SUPPOSED to be small dishes, but these ones were smaller than usual) But, the price of each was really reasonable so we made up for the smaller size by ordering extras! Service was extremely fast and friendly which just added to the positive experience.

Some of my favorites included the grilled peppers, empanadas and the grilled chorizo. Yum yum!

As the night progressed, the place got more and more packed and bustling and clearly is a popular choice in the area. I'll definitely be back when the tapas craving strikes again!

A great place to go when you're looking for a light meal or ready for a longer evening of drinking and fun with friends.

Not too touristy, which is shocking for its Chatelet location, Les Pietons tends to get crowded on weekend nights and later in the evening so if you want to be guaranteed a seat, plan to arrive early or call ahead.

The croquetas are delicious and the ambiance and servers fun and friendly.

Traipsing through Chinatown is an experience in itself, and picking a restaurant can be difficult with so many delicious looking ones in such close proximity.

I decided to apply my internationally patented rule of "go where the queue is the longest" in choosing the Crispy Duck last weekend and was happily rewarded with some of the tastiest food I've had in a long time. Generally, my rule is foolproof - the more people waiting, the better the place will be, and the Crispy Duck was no exception.

Though of course there was a bit of a wait, the woman at the front was cheerful and quick and we were seated in exactly five minutes, just as she had predicted.

After pondering over the extensive menu, I decided to go with crispy spring rolls as an appetiser and kung pao chicken with house special fried rice as a main. Wow - I was blown away! The chicken was nice and spicy and packed the punch that I was looking for, and I couldn't get enough of the amazing rice with its bits of prawns, pork and egg mixed together in a perfect blend of flavors.

The best part of the whole visit - not only was it fantastically delicious, but I got out of there paying only £15 or so for my huge feast and a beer. I've read the other reviews saying that the Crispy Duck is open until 4am which just means that I'll be back on my next traipse through the area, even late at night!

Though I've really jumped right into a routine upon moving to London, there are some moments like stumbling upon Big Ben, riding on the top of a double-decker bus and others that make me stop in my tracks and think something like "wheeeeeeeeee! I live in London!!!!"

The first time I walked into the Island Queen was also one of those "wheeeee" moments. The interior is breathtaking, and looks just like I imagined British pubs to look...antique dark wood, comfy couches, really high ceilings and even a fireplace! The whole place screams "cosy" and it most definitely is.

As it's nearby my office, I've only ever come here at lunchtime but have not yet been disappointed with my meals. Though it's pretty standard pub fare, the chips are fresh and delicious and the sandwiches are a good value. With a variety of beverages and fantastic specials, this is one of my "go-to" places, especially when I know Upper Street will be too busy or if I'm too lazy to walk up there. I like that it's off the beaten path too - means that it's never been too crowded, which I like!

I had to do a double-take to make sure I hadn't stumbled into an alternate American universe when I spotted Cinnabon from across Piccadilly Circus one day. Could this really be? Is this decadent, sinful treat that used to be found only in my native U.S. actually before my very eyes in central London?

Lo and behold, upon crossing the road I found that there was in fact an actual, true Cinnabon and of course I had to sample their delicious offerings to be sure that it was "authentic!" (the things I do for authenticity....)

I tried the Cinnastix that came with a pot of delicious cream cheese frosting and was immediately transported back to my Californian mall food court. The cinnamon buns are delicious as well, warm, gooey and definitely not diet-friendly!

I'll be back here again when I'm in the area and want a tasty treat!

I'm originally from Southern California where frozen yogurt is like a religion, so I have a lifetime of experience in sampling different yogurt shops and what they have to offer.

This is definitely not "tastes just like ice cream" frozen yogurt - it's tangy, tart and not at all sugary. The choices of yogurt flavors are simple, as there is only original and green tea. The choice of toppings is where things get more fun - choose from fresh fruit, candies, different types of cereal, nuts and more to create your perfect concoction.

I love this place - and will keep going back!

I went to Fifteen recently for a team breakfast with my colleagues as it's not far from our office. I'd heard really great things about Fifteen and have to admit that there was a lot of hype surrounding my first visit.

I do have to say that my breakfast was delicious though on the expensive side. I had Jamie's signature porridge which was quite filling and tasty. The staff was friendly and easily accommodated our large party. I'd like to go back for lunch or dinner to see if it's worthy of another star or two.

BEAUTIFUL French food with many delicious menu choices.

I was looking for a place to meet up with a friend visiting from Paris and though it had only been a few weeks since I moved to London from there, I had a hankering for some good French fare.

Our table was right at the window which was perfect for people watching as the show across the street let out. Our waiter was friendly and knowledgeable, and the wine was a perfect match to our meal. I finished the evening with a creme brulée which took me back to Paris with its delicate cream and crunchy top. I felt like I was back "home" again. Definitely a great spot for meeting up with friends and a great place for French food in Soho.