Ortega (Leadenhall Market)

Very suprised at the good reviews on this place. Got to be one of the worst eating experiences I have had in years in one of the most unconvincing London based Spanish restaurants that I have ever been to.

Things started badly when I can only imagine that the olive oil to accompany the bread was confused with water. Either that or it was the cheapest most flavourless olive oil on the market.

Things continued to progress badly when the simple Spanish classic tortilla appeared to be straight from the freezer, definitely bought in, served warm after a blast in the microwave. It was dry and tasteless.

The Gambas a la planche were stuck to to the griddle. Once I managed to crowbar them off the prawns were stuck in the shell. Once I finally managed to crowbar them out of the shell, they were hard and tasteless. When I explained to the moody waitress that I dont think I should pay for them, rather than trying to find out what the problem was she told me that I had to pay as I had eaten one. I dont think so!!!

The chicken skewers were also stuck to the griddle upon which they were served. They were lacking in any sort of Spanish flavour! Although I did eat them as I was still hungry.

The albondigas (meatballs) werent too bad actually although there was nothing Spanish about them at all. Basically, some beef mixed with cumin and rolled into a ball. More Indian than Spanish. Sauce lacked flavour again.

So, after all this, we thought that we should cheekily suggest that the restaurant invite us to a couple of shots on the house. Might sound cheeky but this is pretty common in lots of Spanish restaurants. Unfortunately the waitress appeared completely shocked as if I had asked her for a glass of vomit.

Anyway, maybe they were having a bad night or maybe its always like this. EIther way, I wont be going back.
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3 Overall rating
Food 2 | Service 3 | Atmosphere 4 | Value for money 3
Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Very funky Décor, tasty reasonable priced food and helpful team gives an overall good dining experience. The restaurant gets very busy during the lunch time therefore a bit loud at this time. I will definitely recommend it.
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8 Overall rating
Food 7 | Service 8 | Atmosphere 9 | Value for money 8
Sunday, March 15, 2009