Gmbklm's review of Almeida

This was our 2nd visit this year. As previously, it was after the theatre, and the restaurant was again very busy. It seems to attract a local special occasion crowd, plus the theatre go-ers.

The dining room decor is very pleasant, quite modern and warm, and the tables reasonably spaced.

I’m afraid we again thought the food was very OK or very average – Not actually bad, but our starters were both rather bland and tasteless, and our main course beef was tender but a bit overcooked and not that tasty.

Service was efficient and pleasant, although the waiter didn’t know how to react to the non-positive answer to the “did you enjoy your meal” standard question. I also dislike it when waiting staff insist emptying the wine bottle sediment into my wine glass without asking.

I seem to remember this restaurant being much more up market when it first opened many years ago, but its now very much a mid-range restaurant or perhaps a brasserie.

Overall, I would say it’s main or only selling point is its proximity to the Almeida theatre for post or pre play dining. I won't be rushing back for the food, and it could not be described as good value at c£100 for 2 ex wine. Compares badly to a good gastropub.