Motherland

With no experience at all of African food, this was a bit of an experiment for us, with mixed results. Our starters were very good - moi-moi, blacked beans blended with spices and veges) which was rather like a very spicy polenta served in wedges, and fried plaintain, which came with peanuts, an excellent combination. We then had jollof rice with chicken in spicy tomato stew, and waakye (rice and beans) and lamb in (the same) spicy tomato stew. The meat was really good, spicy and tender. The rice for both dishes came turned out of a mould (despite the jollof being described as "african style risotto" - it isn't) and was far too dry and quite unpleasant. There was also a distinct lack of any form of green vege, which was a pity. The service was best described as shy, there was no attempt to explain the menu to us, although individual dishes were briefly described when we asked. It was also very slow, which seemed odd given that there was only one other customer there when we arrived (a party of 6 arrived shortly before we left, which was a relief). But I'd go again - the food is interesting, nice decor and excellent background music. The few gliches in the food can maybe be for the price, which came to £28 for two starters, two mains and two glasses of house wine, plus tip. Warning - they don't take cards, and this isn't indicated at the entrance or on the menu.
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Louise Symons
Overall rating
Food 7 | Service 4 | Atmosphere 8 | Value for money 7
Sunday, August 13, 2006