Nick's review of Hix

Three of us had lunch here for our first visit and can be defintely deemed a success!

The first impression is given by the huge (10ft high I guess) wooden front door which is a tremendous quality introduction.

The room itself is well decorated with a intergral bar area where you can also eat. Tables do not have table clothes, which helps to provide a less formal atmosphere but everything smacks of good quality including the cutlery (not an item that I would normally comment on). The round tables for 3-4 are reasonably spaced. The tables for two looked rather close together but no more so than other places in the westend.

Service was attentitive and efficient without being overbearing.

The menu, which changes twice a day between lunch and dinner, is varied and interesting across both starters and mains, and between fish and meat (being a protein eater I didnt notice the vegetetarian choices – sorry!). I had ‘ Heaven and Earth’ to start- yes I didnt know what that was until I asked – black pudding with potatoes and apple – lovely! Followed by the haddock which was also excellent. One of my partners had the smoked salmon and then the beef shoulder with bonemarrow – both very tasty although he doesnt eat bone marrow _ why did he order it you might well ask as we did!

Our third companion is a prospective client and he did not mind being a guinea pig with us on the day and he was very happy with his food choice too.

The wine list is not extensive but more than adequate for most except those with a very particular requirement.

I was very impressed at this first visit and will definitely go again – i did wonder if I shouldn't grade it 9 overall but decided another visit was required to achieve that high a rating from me!