Artisan & Vine

Eclectic is polite. I'd call the place rough and ready but it provided an enjoyable visit. Hard to generalise after only a couple of hours on the premises, but our limited experience of the wine list suggests a very skilfully chosen selection. A short menu (no bad thing provided everyone can find something they like) was nicely prepared and presented without frills by the friendly and informal staff.

Personally I think torn wallpaper held in place by sticky tape in the gents' toilet is pushing the "laid back" approach a bit too far, but as we were there for the wine and food, not to look at the decor, I rate our evening a success.

I can't imagine trying or even finding this place without a recommendation but would certainly go again if in the area.
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Kentishwanderer
7 Overall rating
Food 6 | Service 8 | Atmosphere 7 | Value for money 7
Monday, July 18, 2011

A charming wine bar with comfortable eclectic furniture, opulent chandeliers and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

They specialise in local and natural wines and the staff were happy to guide us through their interesting, unusual list and (on request) made recommendations to accompany our food. Despite being award winning wine merchants there is absolutely no wine snobbery here!

We went for Sunday lunch which was excellent – we’d heard that the new chef was talented and we were delighted with the quality and presentation of all three courses.

The menu was small but imaginative. Perfectly cooked duck breast with smoky aubergine for me, fregola with seafood for my companion. Both dishes were exceptionally good, as was the charcuterie board and home made hummus that we had to start.

The service was friendly and attentive without being at all overbearing or rushed.

A perfect Sunday afternoon, we will definitely return - soon.
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HollyBerry - View all reviews by this user
10 Overall rating
Food 10 | Service 9 | Atmosphere 9 | Value for money 10
Tuesday, March 15, 2011

New food menu at Artisan & Vine is succinct but satisfying. We enjoyed the homemade salmon fishcake and lamb kofta. The wine list is the star of the show, a proper book. Service was extremely friendly and made good wine recommendations. Really nice atmosphere, if a little busy.
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JS - View all reviews by this user
10 Overall rating
Food 9 | Service 10 | Atmosphere 10 | Value for money 9
Monday, July 12, 2010

Service was fine. Food was below average. Overall pretty disappointing.

There are other places in the same area that are doing remarkably better for the same price, nicer atmosphere. Skip this and go somewhere else.
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LJ - View all reviews by this user
2 Overall rating
Food 1 | Service 3 | Atmosphere 2 | Value for money 1
Wednesday, March 24, 2010