Smiths of Smithfield Top Floor

Smiths has jumped the shark.

I ate at the top floor with my girlfriend. The waiter was visibly disturbed I didn't laugh at his jokes. A duck starter was only moderately tasty and overall, far too small. I got the impression food was prepared for its looks rather than good eating quality.

The 38 day aged steak was tough although thankfully, not overcooked.

The dessert - a poor cheesecake in a glass - was just plain bad.

The waiter explained to us what jasmine tea is. This was the final straw. I have fond memories, but I won't be returning here ever. The night was embarrassing for me.
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The Stomach - View all reviews by this user
4 Overall rating
Food 5 | Service 4 | Atmosphere 5 | Value for money 0
Sunday, October 07, 2012

Fantastic for brunch and often use the dining room for business. But tried out the Top Floor last Friday which was superb from start to finish.

I went for...Wye Valley Asparagus, Watercress, Amalfi Lemon (delicious seasonal dish)

Norfolk Rabbit Loin, Serrano Ham, Little Gem Lettuce, Peas (lovely cut with beautiful additions)

Rhubarb & Duck Egg Custard Tart, Limoncello Ice Cream (rich and creamy but light)

I thought that it could be a little pretentious but the staff were friendly and inviting and wasn't rushed. The views are stunning and I will most certainly be back!
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10 Overall rating
Food 10 | Service 10 | Atmosphere 9 | Value for money 9
Wednesday, June 06, 2012

I have been eating here for over ten years and returned to the top floor expecting the usual good time - it was not forthcoming.

No greeting on entry, a cloakroom attendant too busy to bother with guests (who had to be hailed by the maitre d before she paid any attention).

The service was bizarre. The menu has not changed for years and the food was boring, bland and not very well cooked.

On the way out, everyone said goodbye as if they had delivered a night worth remembering. Sadly that was not the case - it was too little, too late. My (business) guests were distinctly unimpressed

I will not be back until it changes hands, or the owner decides to take an interest.
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2 Overall rating
Food 2 | Service 2 | Atmosphere 2 | Value for money 2
Tuesday, February 08, 2011

Decided to take a friend out for a meal and was out to impress, so selected Top Floor at SOS on the basis of strong recommendations from friends and colleagues.

I note that quite a few of the older reviews mentioned issues with staff. This has clearly been seen, reviewed and actioned.

The service was excellent. I cannot stress enough how good the staff were; Friendly, attentive, polite, helpful... these people went out of their way to make us feel comfortable.

The food was superb. I had the halibut with lobster mash, which was beautifully presented and very tasty. I had the pastel de nata with raspberries for dessert which, as someone who has consumed a lot of egg custard tarts in their life, was *perfect*.

Everyone remembers this place for the view, and even with a seat from the back of the room it's quite something.

Wine on the top floor is expensive, but like everything else on the top floor - you get what you pay for.

The total was just over £100 for two of us (two courses, dessert, bottle of wine and coffee), which, for a premiere resteraunt in central London, was pretty much expected.

****Highly recommended****

(A warning - the bread comes with no bread plate. It's 'rustic' apparently. The uptight might find the prospect of holding a bit of crusty bread frightening. It's OK to drop crumbs. Really. Your mum isn't watching.)
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Richard Newstead
10 Overall rating
Food 10 | Service 10 | Atmosphere 10 | Value for money 10
Wednesday, June 16, 2010