We came here, without a reservation, on a busy Saturday night (27/11) after one disaster too many at the Hope & Anchor on The Cut. The place was humming and fully booked, but the friendly maitre d' found us 2 seats at the bar. The way we were looked after you would have thought we had been given the VIP seats! Once you get over the rather stark furnishings which remind you of your university canteen on a good day and the slightly harsh lighting, the rest is just right. The wait staff were all very friendly and helpful and Zeren, the charming and knowledgeable sommelier, helped us around the very extensive (and well priced) predominantly Italian wine list with some real gems. We chose a a delicious 2003 Barberesco Roagna with a very reasonable mark up – a great start. [Sadly only 3 bottles left!] We had the fresh grilled anchovies as a starter – served up very simply but cooked just right, with enough citrus on them to give them a mouthwatering flavour. I then chose a simple grilled veal chop with fresh spinach and lemon watching the chef diligently preparing it in front of me. The spinach was just flash fried in a little olive oil and was fabulous – unlike so much of the spinach served around London which comes over-garlicked or just ridiculously creamy and overcooked. The chop was also cooked to perfection, pink enough to be full of flavour but not off putting and with lemon zest. My wife's bugatini pasta dish was also delectable with cardoons (tasting part artichoke, part celery) and grilled prawns – looked fabulous , tasted even better! We never got to desserts but I am sure they will be delicious too. To cap it all, Sam Harris, the chef/owner came out to chat with us to make sure we had enjoyed our dinner! A great touch – well done Sam. I really can't fault this place – great value, excellent quality and a really buzzy vibe. Make the effort to get there and you will not be disappointed.