All reader reviews by Wine Spider

Phoenix Palace

Really good dim sum. Went on a Saturday afternoon so didn't get the benefit of the busy evening atmosphere but liked the slightly retro/grand decor. Service was pretty efficient but functional. One dish was forgotten and no real apology offered. Quality of the food was ecellent and it represented good value.

Sunday, May 15, 2011
Overall rating
Food 8 | Service 7 | Atmosphere 7 | Value for money 7

Clos Maggiore

Went here last night for our wedding anniversary and had one of the best meals ever. We only booked about 2 weeks ago and I had emailed to request a table in the conservatory on Monday but didn't hear back. On arrival I explained that I had emailed and would it be possible to sit in the conservatory and was told probably not as it's so popular and the restaurant was full that night. I had no issues with this as it was a fairly late request, but was delighted when we were shown to our table after a having drink in the waiting area and we were in the conservatory after all.

This is a perfect setting for a quiet, romantic evening and we went on to have a faultess meal. As it was a special occasion we chose the tasting menu and accompanying wines and the food and service were both beautiful. The presentation and quality of the food was delicious and the service was attentive but not intrusive. We knew we were required to finish by 9.30 and having arrived at 7 this was plenty of time and evening was well paced and not rushed, allowing us to savour the experience.

Not cheap at £250 for the tasting menu and wines plus a couple of extra drinks to start with but very good value for money. Not somewhere we can afford to go to regularly but I had high expectations for this special evening and felt that Clos Maggiores really lived up to that.

Sunday, September 19, 2010
Overall rating
Food 10 | Service 10 | Atmosphere 10 | Value for money 10

Levant

Follow the red rose petals from Wigmore Street and descend the tiled stairs lit by candles and you will find Levant. We arrived at 6.30pm on a Saturday night and without a booking. The restaurant manager said no problem, as long as we were finished at our table by 8.30pm - fair and up front. Very attentive service, drinks quick to come and we ordered the meat feast for four. The starters in particular were delicious and we had a couple of bottles of the Chateau Ksara red. As we were leaving the atmosphere was really hotting up and our waiter found us a table in the bar so we could have another drink and enjoy the belly dancers. If you enjoy plenitful tasty food, beautiful decor, good service and a vibrant atmosphere this is a great place.

Sunday, September 05, 2010
Overall rating
Food 9 | Service 9 | Atmosphere 9 | Value for money 8