All reader reviews by Soap

Saf

Just stunning. Having a vegan husband often means that fine dining isn't on the menu, if you'll pardon the pun, but Saf boldly flies in the face of this.

The restaurant itself is airy and subtly decorated, with friendly and welcoming staff. We started with a couple of organic beers before making our way to our table. We had some delicious edamame whilst waiting for our starters, which were worth the wait.

The beetroot ravioli was a real surprise; the nut 'cheese' actually tasting like a light cream cheese, which is amazing. My husband's starter of chive pearls, on sweet potato latkes with apples and sour cream was good enough for a Michelin-starred establishment. My main was the meal's highlight; a mushroom croquette with truffle alfredo and rosemary, accompanied by minute pickled vegetables - a real explosion of tastes and all raw, which beggars belief. My husband declared his lasagne one of the best vegan meals he's ever eaten.

We skipped a sweet course but I will be dragging anyone who'll accompany me so that I can revisit and try the rest of the menu. Inspired stuff.

Friday, May 23, 2008
Overall rating
Food 10 | Service 10 | Atmosphere 9 | Value for money 9

China City

Totally disorganised, dreadful service. We went there for a friend's birthday and I don't think they got a single person's order 100% correct. We received our starter just as we were leaving, but they still attempted to charge us for it.

Despite their being a surfeit of staff, few could speak English and this only added to the chaos. Really detracted from what was supposed to be a fun celebration.

The sound quality of the karaoke is awful, too. The food itself was fair, but I've eaten far better elsewhere without feeling ripped off.

Friday, August 31, 2007
Overall rating
Food 6 | Service 2 | Atmosphere 1 | Value for money 1