All reader reviews by Moliagul

The River Cafe

River Cafe was a spur of the moment idea last Saturday, rang and left our name on the waiting list. Some time later we were called back as there had been cancellation and we had a table from 7 pm to 9 pm. As we live relatively close by the short notice is not a problem. So full marks to the system - it works!

Service was bright, well mannered and courteous by the low key staff who are very friendly and helpful. I like the busy atmosphere, buzz and hum of the restaurant. A selection of Italian wines and a bottle of Vermantino later we felt very comfortable and relaxed indeed.

Food was fresh, tasty and excellent with a number of new and classics dishes on a balanced menu. We squeezed in 3 very enjoyable courses in an unrushed 1.5 hours with tea, coffee and a grappa for the blokes at the table. We then made our way across snowy London streets home.

For those who like to gripe about this restaurant's prices, all I can say is that you get real value for money. There are many other 'modern European' and/or Italian restaurants in the area and they are in no way cheaper and do not generally provide the high quality food and wine provided by the lovely staff at River Cafe.

Monday, February 06, 2012
Overall rating
Food 9 | Service 9 | Atmosphere 9 | Value for money 9

Gordon Ramsay at Claridge's

Dinner could not be more disappointing. The lobster ravioli was 'OK' though everything else was predictable and now lacks innovation. The restaurant is a very nice venue staff are very helpful though the let down is the food which I suppose running an empire which is now in decline Mr Ramsay needs to focus again on what he is good at and that is running a kitchen and not leaving it in the hands of others. The menu needs to be revamped and updated for this new decade. The bill was not expensive (compared to the Waterside Inn in Bray where we dined the week before where the food was immaculate French cooked to a excellent standard though you pay the price) though Gordon needs to pull his socks up and stop big noting himself and using the 'F' word and focus on his great talent as a chef and innovator.

Monday, June 06, 2011
Overall rating
Food 4 | Service 8 | Atmosphere 5 | Value for money 4