★★★★☆ / British

St John Hotel review – Snout to tail eating in Leicester Square

Clerkenwell’s meat palace opens a branch in the West End, but does it have the same magic as the original? The huge glass block that is the new W Hotel now dominates Leicester Square overwhelming everything else. It offends the very aesthetic fibre of the Lensman’s body. Interestingly the W Hotel literally overshadows another new … Continue reading

★★★☆☆ / Japanese / Japanese Noodles

Taro review – Cheap Japanese food, but is it cheerful?

Inexpensive and quick. I can’t complain about that. Or can I? Oh God, I hear you cry! Not another review of a Japanese restaurant! Admittedly I enjoy Japanese food much to the detriment of my wallet and the boredom of my less-enthusiastic dining companions, but this will be the last Japanese restaurant review, at least … Continue reading

★★★★☆ / Korean

Stylish Korean on a budget – Kimchee High Holborn review

Tasty, tasteful and not too pricey either Given the economic clout of South Korea I’m somewhat surprised that Korean restaurants aren’t more common and popular in London. Although there are an increasing number of them in places such as around Centre Point or in New Malden, most are scrappy, slightly run down eateries that aren’t … Continue reading

★★★☆☆ / Chinese Dumplings / Chinese Noodles / Taiwanese

Leong’s Legends Continues review – A small piece of Taiwan in London

For most people Chinese food means the familiar anglicised staples such as sweet and sour pork and chow mein. Saavier Londoners have moved on to more authentic, interesting and healthier dishes. The traditionally Cantonese-dominated restaurants have been making way for eateries serving food from the other regions of China – the country is almost double … Continue reading

★★★☆☆ / Modern European / Modernist

The Larder review – Power Lunching or Powerless Munching?

A Modern European restaurant with an Australian twist. I feel mildly sorry for any City restaurant that happens to be on the same street as the celebrated St John Bar and Restaurant, a celebrated 17-year old fine dining institution. The Larder is one such restaurant, only a few yards away from St John. Whereas St … Continue reading