All reader reviews by Peter

La Porte des Indes

We went to this restaurant as a party of three, one of my guest was actually a celebrity chef herself.

To summarise: The service at the bar was ok. The service in the restaurant was below average. The manager was very arrogant, the staff a little flimsy. The decor of the place reminds me of a run down Disney theme restaurant rather than a top class Indian restaurant. They clearly have not done anything since the 1990s. The food was below average with some sauces clearly watered down to safe money on spices. The worst were the prices though. Drinks are ridiculously overpriced - they charge more than restaurants with Michelin stars. £8 for a Cobra is just beyond good and evil. The wine list is ok, but nothing special for an expert. Food portions are on the small side and side dishes were small. The black cod was good, the chicken was awful. I had the worst Daal there in my life. The Peschawari Naan was a disgrace - it tasted like an out of date mince pie.

Overall, I cannot recommend this place. The decor is tacky and outdated. The service below average, but worst of all, the prices are just unrealistic bordering rude.

Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Overall rating
Food 2 | Service 2 | Atmosphere 0 | Value for money 0

Cafe Spice Namaste

We have had a wedding reception at this restaurant and been to dinner many times. The food has always been amongst the best of Indian in the UK. The home-made chutneys are delicious and the starters are all very tasty with a modern twist.

The main courses are absolutely delicious and most are served with either Naan or rice. I am impressed by the meats and cuts they use - all from top estates. The side portions are huge (especially the Aubergines). The desserts (and I like very very few Indian ones) are good too.

The service is attentive - not sure what people's issues are here on the site.

Toilets - agree, could be better.

Overall, incredibly good Indian restaurant offering the best of Goan food. I have been to all of the top Indian restaurants in London and believe that Cafe Spice is amongst the best without carrying a ridiculous price tag (a la Porte des Indes or Cinnamon Club). And please do not mistake 'Curry Houses' with Indian restaurants - they are not.

Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Overall rating
Food 10 | Service 9 | Atmosphere 9 | Value for money 9