Rotunda

Rotunda is a smart addition to the limited Kings Cross restaurant scene. Its smart design and outlook over the canal, coupled with the sleek bulk of the Kings Place arts centre make it an attractive destination.

Service while we were there was excellent, very attentive and generous. Food had a British slant and seemed hearty on the menu but quite small when it arrived. My lamb was very good and a chocolate brownie with vanilla ice cream to finish delicious.

Food was well priced but wine seemed expensive. Being offered it two wine glass sizes, plus 500ml carafes was a nice touch.

My one real gripe is the lighting. They have made a classic mistake of trying to light a restaurant entirely from the ceiling. This never works and only low, soft localised lighting makes a place feel cosy. The cold lighting from the ceiling coupled with the blue upholstery gives a rather austere feeling at night. I recommend a few candles to sort that out.

Overall a nice place and worth checking out – Can be casual or used to impress.

Anyone who knows York Way will know that this is not the sort of neighbourhood that shouts “great eating”. However, the Rotunda is in a new building with interesting spaces and concert venues which could do something to change my perceptions. The restaurant itself is built facing the Canal which I believe is the same one which goes along the North side of Regent's Park, to Camden Lock and onwards. Given the urban setting, the view is attractive, as is the decor and design of the whole place. My wife and I wanted to see the sculpture casting business in the same building and wandered in looking for a light meal on a Sunday lunchtime in late February 2009. The lady who greeted us seemed genuinely warm and interested and, actually smiled ! I asked if I could go off menu and after enquiry in the kitchen I was able to obtain a platter of cheese, cold cuts and salad leaves with fresh and interesting bread. We had one of the house white wines which was absolutely fine – crisp and light, which went well with the food. Everything was efficient, yet unhurried. We aim to go back one evening for a “proper” meal to be enjoyed as the evenings get longer as Spring sets in.