Went to Hix on a Wednesday night for dinner. Hadn't expected it would be so hard to obtain a booking mid week in a recession but still we were made to promise when booking to give the table back after 2 1/2 hours, and also, once booked, found the time impossible to change by half an hour (thanks to a logic defying bookings policy that allows sittings only at half past the hour). Once there, and having spotted Mark Hix at the bar trying to blend in as a punter, we were encouraged. Service was definitely better for having the boss watching, although they still forgot to bring some items out. Food was generous and well sourced. Wine was good too. Atmosphere buzzing and chatty and perfect for a catch up with friends. However – here is the big problem – we felt a little stung afterwards. Dinner came to £170 per couple – for 2 courses with wine and water. A sirloin steak came in one size only – huge – and cost £32 with no accompaniments. When this place opened 6 months ago I believe the sirloin was on the menu at £24. Yes food prices are increasing but all I can say is that the size of the bill did not for us reflect the experience of the evening and we felt it was too much to pay for simple food. Admittedly there were cheaper items on the menu but a massive gap in pricing. Beef and oyster pie was £15 or so, the cheapest steak was a similar price but basically a thinly sliced minute steak. Sirloin, Fillet and Porterhouse came in at £32 – £35 each. With a couple of sides, the main courses came to £40 a head so our wallets were doomed from the start I suppose.