Jim Thompsons (Southgate)

We ate here last night. The service was absolutely atrocious and ruined what would otherwise have been a pleasant meal. The fact that the service was so terrible for everyone didn't do much for the atmosphere in the upstairs restaurant. The three tables near us each seemed to be experiencing some kind of problem with the service (long wait between courses, main course dish arriving (cold) after everyone in the group had finished eating, long wait for the bill).

It took ages for us to order food (although our drinks order was taken promptly), there was an incredibly long wait for starters and main courses (we didn't even bother with the idea of dessert), the prawn crackers we had ordered to nibble while we waited (wisely as it turned out) didn't appear at all until they turned up on the bill, the wrong drinks arrived, the warmed plates were sat in front of us for so long they went cold and had to be replaced, we had to chase to get our main courses at all (I was silently fuming at this point). I nearly left before the main courses turned up, nearly 90 minutes after we had been seated. When the food did turn up we were so hungry that we didn't really enjoy it (although the food at this pub/restaurant chain is good).

The two main waiting staff were just faffing about - it wasn't even amusing to watch. There didn't seem to be anyone supervising/managing them or directing their efforts, although they were joined by someone who appeared to be from the kitchen. Perhaps he was desperate for some of the food to be served while it was still warm.

In fairness, the bar staff downstairs were horrified when we said the service (or lack of it) had been so terrible.

If you want to try the food from this chain but would like it to be served the same day you get there, try the Cock & Dragon in Cockfosters.
Comment on this reader review

Catten
Overall rating
Food 8 | Service 1 | Atmosphere 2 | Value for money 1
Saturday, August 02, 2008

Excellent Thai cuisine, an extensive menu and decorative and fun surroundings make this a local gem. The one fault is that the service can often be very slow (even when they aren't busy). However, this isn't enough to distract from the food and ambience which are both excellent, and the tables are well spaced. The food is tasty and the menu contains a helpful 'spice guide' so that you know exactly how hot the dishes are. Good vegetarian options too.
Comment on this reader review

JP
Overall rating
Food 10 | Service 4 | Atmosphere 9 | Value for money 9
Tuesday, October 10, 2006

We’ve been to the other Jim Thompsons in the Kings Road and found the same fun theme in Southgate too. Not only can you choose to buy a Japanese, Chinese, Thai meal here, you can also buy things like the lamp on your table, the pictures around you or the tree in the corner. The staff add to the fun and the food was most enjoyable. Recommended.
Comment on this reader review

Nik Nak
Overall rating
Food 8 | Service 7 | Atmosphere 7 | Value for money 8
Tuesday, April 11, 2006