What does the average person know about Mongolia? All I know is that many of the population play a kind of polo with goat heads, and that Ewan MacGregor enjoyed traversing the vast landscapes by motorbike in his series The Long Way Round.

The fact that it was a grey and dismal Sunday is worth a mention; however, it was lunchtime and entering a dead empty restaurant and feeling like you have rudely interrupted the window cleaning isn’t a great way to start the experience. I waited, and in the end, was forced to interrupt the chores (why weren’t they doing this when the place was shut?!) to be seated and receive a menu. A point on the menu: it had to be the first ever draft as it resembled a toddler’s scrapbook with messy writing and spilt tipex marring each page. Dirty extension cords, scruffy signage and coupled with harsh red and black colour scheme made me feel like I was in a car mechanics boudoir. The best bit about this place was the menus’ attempt to encourage the guest to eat like a Barbarian. Apparently, you could choose to either grill or dunk your food in a hotpot but the ‘mechanics’ were unclear and no matter how many times we stuttered and stumbled during the order taking process, our waitress was unable (and unwilling) to clarify the procedure or even act somewhat sympathetic to our plight. Hedging our bets, half the table decided to grill and the other half to have the hotpot. I went for the ‘spicy’ hotpot which was no spicier than a damp sock and utterly flavorless to boot; rather worrying for something that had promised a taste explosion. The grillers in the party seemed to be fairing a little better; however, I struggled to understand the Mongolian angle in all of this. It just reminded me of the French pierrade, but without the charm. Whatever you chose to grill or dunk was collected from an unappetizing buffet located in the centre of the restaurant. It isn’t unfair to say that some of the offerings looked rather tired. I say ‘some of the offerings’ because it was nigh on impossible to tell what was what (no labels) and it was difficult to drag the waitress from her cleaning duties to get a decent explanation. The ‘fishballs’ were a particular lowlight, especially when they were still frozen in the centre. It was all accompanied with rice and noodles, which were, well, rice and noodles. No attempt was made to explain what went with what; how to create a compelling taste combination. It was simply left to the diner’s knowledge and discretion.

Yes the food was cheap; the Sunday buffet was £12.50pp, but that shouldn’t mean that a dinner should have to endure such an experience. There were glimmers of potential for a different, social dining experience but the realities of this restaurant overshadow these. I would rather be a Barbarian, eat in a cave and forage for my own lunch of nettles and bark than eat at the Mongolian Grill again. I’m afraid I would go The Long Way Round to avoid this restaurant in the future.

Meeting friends on a bank holiday can be problematic so after some research, I decided to suggest The Beehive, due to its convenient location for all. I knew it would be a little left field, and indeed it was.

Good pub classics alongside Italian inspired food was let down by a strange format. I really enjoyed my halloumi and pesto starter, and tucked in to the special of pan-fried skate with new potatoes, green beans and salsa Verde. Both courses were a feast for the senses. However, unused gastro pub furniture was shoved in to corners as if no one would notice, and I felt a little awkward, and uncomfortable. An interesting and well though wine list also was a plus. Good beers also from Greenwich's Meantime brewery were enjoyed, although I have to say I didn’t think much of the Beehives own ale. All this was alongside a soundtrack of Italian pop. I think some clearer definition would really help this place. Everything on its own merit I enjoyed, but it was not the sum of its parts.

I had heard and read alot about this place so knew what to expect. Yes, it is chaotic. I didnt get any cuttlery until 3 or 4 minutes after my food arrived! Yes, it is busy, and YES the food is fabulous. Food doesnt wait long on the hotplates here… straight off the grill and WHOOOSH, it arrives in a flurry of activity in front of your eyes. Fabulous naans like I've never tasted, and the lamb kebabs looked amazing… I dont even eat meat! The only downside for me is the location; it is a little difficult to get to from central London. Nevertheless, I recommend you go. It is quite an experience. Don't forget to BYO!

A friend of mine says that Inside provides the best food in the Greenwich and Blackheath area, and as we chat al ot about food and eating out; I value her opinion. The chef Guy Awford has a very good blog with some interesting thoughts and recipes which tempted me to pay a visit to Inside.

The front of house lady was very charming and gave me a ring to confirm my reservation which always instils confidence. The service was always excellent and the dining room sophisticated. In an era when restaurants are so often bare tabled and hard floored, the traditional white linen set with a modern table setting added something different. People have mentioned the dining room as lacking in atmosphere, but we found that it simmered warmly.

The real reason we visited, as one would expect, was for the eating. The set menu had some tantilising prospects. Taglietelle as a starter, Italian style, was dainty and decadent with the truffle oil and chanterelle mushrooms. Prawns skewers with seasame seeds were beautiful and served on a rectangular plate. They were made all the more interesting by the coriander stem and brought alive by a chilli and ginger dressing. Main course was a sweet potato gratin on a bed of beautifully cooked spinach and pastry. It was well cooked and tasty but I have one gripe; lentils. As someone who doesn't eat meat, I do cringe a little at the presence of lentils in a vegetarian main course, it strikes me as a little predictable. It was still enjoyable and I didnt need any encouragement to finish my plate like a good boy! My wife had pheasant which was flavoursome and the cabbage was given some punch by salty lardons.

Desserts were executed well. A warm white chocolate brownie with vanilla was enjoyed and plum and a apple crumble was delciously morish. A beautiful bottle of Barolo washed the meal down.

So, is it the best food in the area? I have already thanked my friend for the tip! A return visit is a definite and next I'd like to try Guy's recently openned eaterie, the Guildford Arms.

We were staying at the hotel, and ate the Braserie for convenience. The food also sounded great and we took advantage of the set menu deal which allowed for a three course menu with unlimited drinks. Value for money was definitely a plus point.

To begin, my wife had the caesar salad and she really enjoyed, in fact, saying it was the best she had ever had! I had fresh prawns which were simple, huge and fresh. For main course, I had the fishermans' pie done in a french style, according to the waiter. It was creamy and moreish, with a finesse that the made it a cut above the standard fair. The side salad was beautifully simple, with a good, punchy dressing. My wife had Homemade Crab Rolls, but these were not so enjoyable; they were way too salty which ruined an other wise interesting dish (although the name didn't do it any favours either). The desserts, a blueberry macaroon and Semi Freddo respectively were a charming end. The atmosphere was a little dry, although it can be difficult in a hotel restaurant, especially with grumpy lone diner nearby. Staff were happy and attentive. An enjoyable god value experience let down by a poor main course dish.

This place did exactly what I thought it would. The food was beautifully presented and lovely. Our waitress was delightful and definitely had an engaging personality. Once we had sat down our amuse bouche arrived – which was AMAZING, a sweet potato veloute – creamy and very moreish. The attention to detail was what made me feel so positive about this place, for example the little oil droplet sitting on the soup making it look wonderful. I had a lovely tart to begin which was beautiful, with gruyere cheese on the top. For the main I chose the grilled cauliflower which had lovely flavours, not least of the whole grain mustard used. La Cave is not cheap, but then the food and the experience was worth it. Starters begin at five pounds and mains at thirteen rising to twenty five. It was relaxing and small enough in size so that service was excellent and attentive.

I had several friends recommend this restaurant and had always wanted to go. The restaurant, as said, above doesn't take bookings so expecting to have to wait we arrived at half past seven. The decor is minimalist and modern, with interesting plates adorning the walls. It was rammed, and being one of those long narrow soho rooms, space was at a premium. No matter. My friend and I had a beer at the bar.

We were asked if we minded sharing a table, for us that wasn't a problem, apart from when I dropped my napkin. The stranger dining next to me and I both went to reach it at the same time and clunked heads! We all had a giggle.

Thought had gone in to the presentation on both courses, which is always good, because I'm on who believes you eat with the eyes first! To begin I had the butternut squash, chilli feta and red pepper pie with green beans. It was lovely, the chilli contrasting nicely with the sweetness of the squash. For my main I chose the Sri Lankan curry which was smooth and delicate. Being a chilli fiend, I LOVED the heat provided by the little ramekin of tomato sambal, and could have happily smothered it all over!

Service was smiley, and prompt, on leaving the waitress suggested we return for lunch one time. If I did, one of the starters would serve the purpose because as perfect sized portions. The atmosphere was fun and vibrant, although, a minus for me was the up tempo pop music. Nevertheless, definitely worth a visit!

We ate at Ondine whilst in Edinburgh on a little honeymoon. It was recommended to us by the lady who ran the guesthouse where we were staying. She said it was a special place and indeed, it was just right for our special Honeymoon meal.

Just after we sat down, two rather stylish businessmen arrived, one having told the other was vegetarian. After looking at the menu, this matter arose. There ensued a conversation where the host, proclaimed, without any malice, ‘…but I though vegetarians ate fish…’ followed by ‘Hang on, …so you dont even eat chicken?!?’. It certainly made us smile. Still, it seemed the guest was happy, as Chef seemingly arraged something just as delicious as the rest of his menu for Mr Vegetarian.

We were booked in for the early sitting, and arrived to see a cool, classy but textured interior and smart, smiling staff. Being on the first floor, with glass throighout gave a lovely light and airy feeling. Throughout the meal had fantastic service, with all the staff knowledgable and attentive, especially the waitress who looked after us. One of us was always going to have the fish soup to begin, and it was delicious being fragrant, creamy and very moreish! My starter the potted shrimp was lovely, and not greasey at all, which can sometimes be its downfall.

My wife had the fish curry which was delicate and flavoured. Different from the asian restaurant version that I'd tried, in that the curry was delicately and beautifully placed on the fish rather than being a stew. I chose the fish of the day, Plaice served with a peperonata, which was fantastic.

It is clear that Corporate Social Responsibiility matters to the establishment, with envelopes for donations to protect the local fishermen on each table. I just wonder if they couldn't go further, and increase the numbers of fish on the menu from sustainable stocks.

We had a terrific meal, with great service. The manager came over at the end, and we were delighted to tell him how much we'd enjoyed our visit. One slight blemish was the length of time it took to get our bill, but overall, this was a very minor point. However, it did stop me giving top marks on the service.

It seems, the awards this restaurant has picked up many awards in its short time, which I'm sure are to be joined by others very soon!

Went here on a saturday night with a friend. Smart place and high prices but this establishment didnt wow me. I had a lovely vegie burger with amazing fries, and a nice salsa which probably was worth the price. The service was cold and unfriendly, and for an American place the beer choices were poor with no Coors or Miller on offer.

My girlfriend had been many times to this Blackheath independent restaurant, and I looked forward to my first visit! I had phoned up in advance to book, and that was needed as the establishment was full to the brim!

We were greeted by the smiling owner. The large spherical wine glasses give you a clue that red wine is an important part of this eatery, so we ordered a Malbec, and lovely it was too. Before the wine came however, the lady serving us, had brought us a carafe of iced water, without even asking, and as I drink lots of water, that was a good mark for me!

We each ordered an Empanada – a filled pastry starter, with either beef or spinach. They look alot like Cornish Pasties in fact, a reflection of the great immigrant influence in Argentina. They were lovely, and the pastry fresh, but I thought the presentation was a little sparse, with only a parsley garnish on top, surrounded by empty plate. Perhaps a pretty little side salad would have improved it.

For main courses, my girlfriend and I both ordered pizzas, and as a vegetarian, these were welcome options. They were huge, and crispy! Mine was lovely, although smothered in garlic, but being half French, that wasn’t a problem for me. It was so big, I perhaps overdid myself in eating the whole thing while my partner ate sensibly and then had hers boxed! Great idea. I love that you can do that in America, but I seldom see it here, except at this Blackheath Argentinean! My friends had selections from Carne, and thoroughly enjoyed them. I have to say, I did take to smothering the Chimichanga sauce on my pizza. Yum!

Now for dessert, we wanted Alfajores Havana which my girlfriend knew were lovely. Little stuffed biscuits filled with Dulce de lece, a decadent caramel sauce. They had run out, so instead we had Flan Con Crema y dulce de lece. I'm not normally sweet toothed, but the Dulce de lece was amazing, like sweet gooey heaven. Terrific. You can buy it in the shop in pretty blue jars, I must invest some time!

The service was very good, friendly and warm as Id hoped, and the owner was greeting customers, and almost embracing those who had finished their meal, a good sign in my book. There was a great atmosphere, the service was cheerful and efficient and the music, selected by the owner was fun, with the odd Tango being played! In the basement is a little bar, and I'd love to have a glass or two of Malbec there one time!

As we left, my friend and I, being budding photographers were eager to discuss the wall decorations. The photos on the left of the restaurant are his. The owner was happy to chat about his work, and was a mine of information about his country! One shot on the right, shows perfectly the immigrant nature of Argentina. A black and white image from an immigration processing centre, much like Ellis Island, New York, depicts different nationalities awaiting processing in a large hall. The facial features, the hats, the clothes all give clues to their origins… and clues to the varied nature of the cuisine of Argentina! I recommend this restaurant, and will be visiting again.

I went to the Afghan Kitchen before a saturday night in Islington on the back of reviews I had read. It did just the job! I'd never had Afghan food before, and was impressed. The owner is an Afghani former Channel 4 camera man who came to England almost 30 years ago. The small menu was refreshing in its simplicity. I had the aubergines in yoghurt, and my friend the lamb. We wanted bread, but the lady (the owner's wife I think) who also does the cooking, said the bread is delivered fresh later in evening, so we had the rice only. The food was simple and tasty. The meal came quickly, and the service friendly and efficient. The food is all prepared in advance, which leads to microwave use, but I didn't mnd that, as it was lovely. I expected the interior to be a bit more ‘rough and ready’ but it was quite modern . As we left, there were people ordering food to take away. Next time I'd love to try the fish stew! If you're in the area, and want a tasty bite, definitely reccommend The Afghan Kitchen for a good value, and novel meal.

The restaurant was bustling when we arrived and I had a refreshingly creamy mango lassi. The colourful canvases covering the walls and a bright orange colour scheme ( the colour of hunger incidently, or perhaps easy jet… ) certainly makes an impression!

Our waitress was lovely, and although I was initially sceptical about the tapas style idea, it actually worked well and certainly makes a change to CTM and Peshwari naan! Dishes come out when they are ready, so you get you your order in sections. The restaurant recommend three dishes per person, which is probably about right. The food was hot and fresh, and all tastey and flavoursome. The four if us particularly enjoyed Ragda Potatoe, the Stuffed Panneer ( which was a novel and lovely idea ) and the Spicy Squid, which is a favourite among customers. One very unnusual dish was the Papdi Chaat- tastey and very different.

The service was brisk, and a little rushed at times, but I guess you expect it with places like these. I wasn't mad for the flashy, modern interior. The food was lovely but twelve hours later and I feel there was too much salt. Would I go again? Perhaps. Time will tell.

I visited Locale Blackheath for the second time on a mild October evening with my fiance and future mother in law.. If it had been a chilly evening however, the sumptious reds of the walls and inviting Chesterfield sofas in the bar area, would have definitely warmed me up! The deep red walls are decorated with large black and white prints of Italians ( I assume…) either glugging the vino straight from the jug, or dangling sheets of pasta above open mouths. The art is slightly at odds, in my mind, with the ambiance in the premises. The pictures suggest a Tratorria to me and not necessarliy the sophisiticated and sleek establishment I feel Locale is. Anyway, as you ascend the staircase the chefs smile as they work as you look to the open kitchen. I personally love an open kitchen and in fact seated myself to be able to watch the creators at work!

Before we took our table we did have a drink in the bar area, and sank in to on one of the afore-mentioned sofas, and gosh, they were terrific! My cocktail was a perfect beginning to the evening. The 3 course mid week menu is very tempting as mentioned above but actually we decided to go from the a la carte. I had the Mozarella Caprese which was delicious and simple. For my main course I plumped for the mixed fish grill served with wild rice. This really was a taste of the sea, with salmon, seabass, squid and prawn, all cooked perfectly with the tastey ‘from the grill’ flavour. Squid, sadly so often over cooked, was just right, and the prawns were delicious, and I enjoyed getting my fingers dirty. The accompanying rice was fluffy and the wild grains tastey and adding interest. I'd be interested to know if they use fish from sustainable stocks, and resolved next time not to forget to ask!

The service was good and attentive, our waiter was able to deal with any querries we had about dishes and was knowledgable on the winelist, and indeed we enjoyed the bottle he recommeneded us. The bar is lovely and the cocktails were delicious. We were kept slightly longer than we wished waiting for our bill but, really that wasnt a problem. The bill for three, two courses, bottles of wine and water, aswell as four drinks in the bar was a shade over a hundred and twenty pounds which is not unreasonable bearing in mind our enjoyment of the food and the good service. My girlfriend has been five times, her mother four. Its easy to be good once, but to continue to maintain a high level of service and food is difficult, and I feel Locale does this. I look forward to my next visit!

My fiancee found this place on this wonderful site and we decided to visit on a saturday evening. The establishment was busy and as we arrived early for our table and decided to sit outside and have a drink. There was a lovely ambiance with the exotic smells of the Shisha pipe drifitng on the evening air. The drinks list is phenominal-made up of beautiful long creations, numerous with a middle eastern twist aswell as traditional cocktail fare! We plumped for a pitcher of the Long Morrocan Mint- a delicious refreshing take on the Mojito in that it didnt have the copious amounts of grainy sugar!

We sat on a long sturdy wooden table inside, which actually was a struggle with my long legs- so if you're tall, sit at the square tables! There was live music was good and added to the ambiance. Our friends arrived and we all decided to choose off the very good value £20 three course dinner menu. The waitress was very knowledgabe and answered all our questions about the dishes, and very impressively, didnt need to note our order of 12 dishes! I had the cheese and mint Bourek to start, which was lovely and the Israeli couscous. The latter, was a little bland but my fiancee had the Mirza Ghassemi – warm aubergine with tomoatoe and egg – and it was delicious,so much so that we asked for more lovely bread to mop it up with! Our friends had the sardine chermoulah, Houmus, Baba Ghanush and Mergez sausage. They were all tasty!

The main corses arrived, and mine was delicious, I had the vegetarian option- the Ghemieh- aubergine, tomatoe and yellow split pea stew with saffron rice. The rice was flavoursome and cooked perfectly and the stew fresh and tastey.

For the desserts we were directed to the bakery part of the restaurant and we all chose something from the sweets on display. I had delicious middle eastern pastries. There were actually some interesting deserts on the set menu which I would have loved to choose from – but it was midnight, and we were told later on by the head waitress that the kitchen closed at 11.

Overall the food was lovely and very good value, the restaurant has worked hard on its ambiance and brand- with its bakery, deli counter and its great how they sell the beautiful plates and bowls they use. They seemed a little understaffed but our waitress knew all her food well and was polite and charasmatic. Our bill came to £146 with two bottles of wine, a picher of cocktail and a bottle of sprkling water.

This was a lovely meal, in a relaxing environment. The lady we had serving us was great but the other dealings with service staff didnt live up to her. It was great value place to visit and natter with friends and not be rushed. That said, go with a view to spending time and enjoying the vibe – dont go if you're in a rush.

This is a tiny pub that gets very popular. It has a very small bar and maybe 3 or 4 tables inside. There is a large decking area with heaters outside. The beer selection is fabulous with beers from all over the world and the bar staff are knowledgable. There are not generally many tourists which is good. The pub gets very busy and this means it gets very crammed. The Rake is worth a visit though for its range of beers alone!