All reader reviews by Dr Stix

York & Albany

I suppose disappointment would be the feeling after a visit last night. We were seated downstairs, next to the kitchens. Our conversation was therefore punctuated by "service" at 1 minute intervals. I know that in some places you pay for this priviledge. It was cold, but the heating change resulted in it being too hot so we yo-yoed all evening. Service was slow, polite and friendly, but slow. Better to get a table upstairs, we felt a bit "second class" downstairs. Food was very variable. Salt and pepper squid left a pile of overcooked batter and lots of salt, not much spice. Beans and pecorino lovely, Salt beef had lots on the plate (too much?) and lacked a strong mustard. Mains didnt fare much better. One bream was overcooked., the other good. The lamb shoulder with carrots was very nice, the romana sauce with the gnocchi was far too subtle for my taste buds and tasted plain bland. Lemon tart was superb. Wines under £20 were good, we had some house red and a picpoul. Perhaps my expectations were too high but at £200 for 5 I expected a bit more consistency.

Friday, July 22, 2011
Overall rating
Food 7 | Service 6 | Atmosphere 5 | Value for money 5