Cafe des Amis (11-14 Hanover Place, London, WC2E 9JP) Surprisingly easy to find then the board right outside had an arrow in the wrong direction. Had to wait to be seated whilst staff member finished long telephone call. Before sat down was brusquely told tables were turned at 7 pm, as it was 5.15 pm we hoped faster service :) As with most restaurants they want a drink choice before you draw breath. 2 bottled beer choices and one was down to the last bottle. Selected fixed price menu (although website doesnt show the extra £3 for steak) hoping for speed but not the case but once starter arrived everything else followed ok. Food was very good especially the chocolate fondant which was really a hot chocolate filled chocolate steamed pudding. Staff were still preparing for the later evening rush and weirdly placed nice candles on the empty tables and not those occupied until we asked for one..strange. Maybe a typical London thing but a 12.5% service charge which was ‘discretionary’ but automatically added to the bill unless you kicked up a fuss. Would choose this place for a quick pre-theatre meal where a welcoming atmosphere isn't important. Cost £50 for 2 × 3 courses + 2 bottled beers.
Link to this review29 November 2011 |