Qype: Cock Tavern in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


For those not accustomed to Samuel Smith's pubs it's an independent brewery dating back to the 1800s where; 'The beers are all produced by the Tadcaster brewery and no large-corporation spirits or soft-drinks are available. Prices are kept minimal by only increasing in line with alcohol duty and inflation increases.' (Thanks wiki)

Because of this you're sure to get good value pints in any of their pubs and they generally are furnished in a more old-fashioned way which enhances the old English feel. For a traitional pub experience it's a great place to visit - and extremely central and near to Oxford Circus if you're meeting friends. Just don't ask for a sporty cocktail or you'll be lynched.

Check out my review of Cock Tavern - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Waxy O'Connors in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


It's like the silly toy inside a Kinder chocolate egg - gimmicky, kitche but something even as an adult you're deep down a little excited by.
Waxy O'Connors is a a central London pub not to be taken lightly. With standard central London prices you may be wondering why Waxy's is the place to head? Well surely you've already heard about the giant old fake tree running down the centre of it, the mole-tunnel rooms with little bars plonked on the ends and the popularity of it all that keeps it throbbing well into the evening. I wasn't blown away by the food and you get the odd snubby waiter, but to take some visitors to London for a fun drink during the week, Waxy's is the central bar that guarantees you the most to talk about after.

Check out my review of Waxy O'Connors - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Waxy's Little Sister in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


Hey guys, how about we take our successful pub name one road down, open a smaller pub and give it a cutsie reference such as little brother or sister, and rake in even more money? When I first went to Waxy O'Connors I was quite taken with the huge spread of little alcoves and maze-like structure with a big fake tree plonked in the middle. How Waxy's Little Sister resembles this in anything other than name I'm a bit baffled. it's a LOT smaller, and is usually quite full and the air upstairs was a little eggy for some reason when we went - I hope not to be a permanent feature...

As pubs go it is alright but I'm not sure why you'd come here over the more substantial sibling and for the size and offerings there are some better pubs about.

Check out my review of Waxy's Little Sister - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Aunties Tea Shop in Cambridge

Cambridge - Shopping - Food & Drink - Coffee & Tea Shops - Eating & Drinking - Cafes & Coffee Shops


I think Lamb's description of the interior being "comfortingly like an elderly relative's living room complete with florals, lace and black and white photos" is pretty damn spot on. Annoyingly so actually (Arches an eyebrow). There's something so endearing about doilies and little apron-clad tea-barers. You wouldn't go to Aunties and go 'what, you guys don't do a rack of ribs?' or 'I'll have a Mojito please', there's no mistaking that Auntie's is THE place to rest tired legs around TEA time. There's even an endearing little story about how the founder brought her dream to a tiny little tea shop for Mum's to rest after a busy day of shopping. Now Auntie's is thriving but you'll be glad to hear that they still make a homemade scone like it was baked just for you.

Check out my review of Aunties Tea Shop - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: All Bar One in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Bars


M-m-m-mediocre. My dining partner and I were just commenting how All Bar One was one of few chain stores that maintain a sense of decorum, and furnish their insides with liberal lashings of modern yet airy delights. Pity their food didn't quite fill the gap today - not because of portion size but more in terms of sattisfaction. I like the sound of their menu and have had a decent burger at another branch.

I branched out and had some of their tapas and my body's asking why. It was really greasy although in hindsight I good have gone for some leafier options... But the calamari was not the light fluffiness I'd hoped for as it came super crunchy and deep-friend with little else and the spinach and potato cakes were pretty greasy too. Even the humous was floating in a little puddle of olive oil. Nice for some, but not as Mediterranean as they were going for I think. Best to be careful with the tapas so as not to go for an oily overload but otherwise it's a decent joint if you're in the area and tired of the other places. But for dining you can do better.

Check out my review of All Bar One - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: La Trouvaille in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - French


I went for their smoked haddock starter and Special fish dish of the day (I was on a very sad and distant no meat patch so options were limited but c'est la vie). Both were extremely tasty, though the main could have come with more veg - arrived with a dollup of basil mash and the fish. I would have welcomed some extra steamed veg or a salad or something. But this really is nit-picking as in London's standards this meal was very good and entertained a whack of flavours which had me smiling the rest of the afternoon. Well that and of course the wine. The waiter was very competent in his knowledge of wines and their history and geographic homes and suggested a brilliant bottle. French menu and comfortable simple ambience that puts the fine back into dining.

Book yourself a table and tuck into tasty cuisine including rabbit and pigeon (not of the Trafalgar Square variety I'm assured), your partner will be 'well' impressed.

Check out my review of La Trouvaille - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: The Red Pepper Restaurant in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Italian & Pizza


On a saturday afternoon stroll through Little Venice and Maida Vale we chanced upon this place for a bit of afternoon tea - it was about 4:30 in the evening, the sun sinking slowly to the West. A waiter tottled over and gave us menus and we ordered some tea.

After a while he returned with tea and asked us if we wanted to see the wine menu 'no no, we're okay thanks'. He peered at us silently down the end of his nose and waited for us to order some food. We asked for a few more minutes and he moved to the side and waited. Under a bit of pressure and really just after a nibble we decided to share a cheese platter. 'We'll have the cheese platter please', I chimed politely. 'And for you?' he asked my silent partner. 'Oh we're sharing it'. The waiter looked at us one at a time, and headed off.

He begrudgingly brought us our cheese platter and asked if we'd like to see the dinner menu. At this time in the late afternoon I really didn't feel like we were in the way, and hated that this was implied. We repeated we would not be eating anything else and set upon our cheese platter. Not a large cheese platter by any account, but reasonably tasty. Before we'd finished our platter our waiter came over and put our bill on the table without a word and walked off and never came back.

A little surprised we eventually finished our platter, finished our tea and paid the bill, with no more 'assistance'. Because of this, I don't think I'll be coming back here. Pity I didn't get a chance to try the pizzas. :)

Check out my review of The Red Pepper Restaurant - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Apostrophe in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Cafes & Coffee Shops


Only been here once which is relevant in that we work just down the road. Once is enough to sample the averageyness really. Average coffee with an average baguette with average parmesan and a very scarce bit of avo that was, well you guessed it, a little average too.

They do have some funkadelic branding but they really need to pull themselves out of average land to get some repeat business going.

Check out my review of Apostrophe - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Harry Morgan in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Cafes & Coffee Shops


With a bit of a different sandwich in mind and with a time-restriction I ducked into Harry Morgan's. I've actually been in and out of this joint before and remembered why - the prices are just a little silly. I went for a chicken escalope sandwich - very simple, and I was surprised to see it made on normal square government loaf bread. When you're shelling out £5.50 for a chicken sammich, you're hoping for something a little special.

While it was tasty, it didn't blow my mind and even in central London have experienced better bit for your buck.

Check out my review of Harry Morgan - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Ferrari Store in London

London - Shopping - Sport


A Ferrari fans wet dream, the flashy new store opened on Regent street two weeks ago and while I'm not a Ferrari fanatic, I was intrigued as to what would be inside. Jumpsuit-clad staff are at your full attention to point you around to the different parts of the shops - the kiddies clothing, trainers, real engine and car replica and other branded goods. It's amazing what they brand when they put their minds to it - even a little rocking horse! If you're passiontate about Ferrari, this store is definitely a must for you.

Check out my review of Ferrari Store - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: The Salusbury in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - British


The Salusbury has a nice feel and a great location just outside Queen's Park Station. Where it comes down is the ludicrous cost to drink there. This place should be my local, but I'd have to sublet my living room to visit here weekly and so after 2 years of living down the road, I've only made it there twice.

It actually really bugs me that they charge far more than most central London pubs which I think is just silly. How on Earth can they justify this? To give you an idea a pint of Leffe will set you back £5.50 and to order a Magners and a beer you'll be shelling out £9.20. Simply mad. As the meals start from £12 (for pub food?) I've never tried it so perhaps this is where their strength lies. Service is nothing to write home about either.

Check out my review of The Salusbury - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Imbibe Bar & Restaurant in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


This restaurant is proof that the place itself is only half of the experience. I went here the first time and was pondering 3 or 4 stars in my mind but following my second visit recently, I'd be hard-pressed to go back. We went for their pub quiz as we do enjoy a good pub quiz. And all was going swimmingly, until we ordered our food. The waitress could not be bothered with us and when she brought our burgers over and I asked for some condeiments she glared at me and suggested I use the scant remains of my friend's who had got there early. A little unimpressed I suggested a bit more would be lovely which she begrudgingly brought over then did the same thing with another friend at the table who arrived later.

I went for the chicken burger. I don't mind paying £8 for a good burger but this was not - paper thin chicken breast that was burnt with dark brown over cooked chips. I think I'll eat before going next time and save everyone the effort.

Nice outside garden in Summer though they closed it early for some reason the second time around so seems to be luck of the draw.

Check out my review of Imbibe Bar & Restaurant - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Blackfoot Butchers in London

London - Shopping - Food & Drink - Butchers


There's something awfully likeable about this place. The prices? Not so much. But the truth is that with all the steroids, water and stuffing many shop-bought meats sport these days, you have to fork out for a bit of quality.

I had the roast beef and horseradish ciabatta which was quite tasty but I felt lacked a little summin summin - some roasted cherry tomatoes, rocket, a quirky pickle or just something to uplift the taste. At £4.50 for this simple sandwich it's a price to pay, but you can be guaranteed of freshly made produce by people who know their stuff.

Check out my review of Blackfoot Butchers - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Westfield Shopping Centre in London

London - Shopping - Shopping Centres


I'd heard mixed opinions on the Westfield Shopping Centre and after giving it a wide berth I eventually tottled to it a few weeks ago. I must say I was really impressed. Hailing from South Africa originally we're all over our shopping malls and while I love a quaint High Street I'd far rather be here than on Oxford on a Saturday. It caters for all kinds of tastes with the normal High st stores like H&M and Top Shop but also has the designer brands for those wishing to really treat themselves.

The food court is pretty impressive with a nice outside section which will prove quite popular this summer me thinks.

Check out my review of Westfield Shopping Centre - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: outsider tart in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Fastfood & Takeaway


When you think of a brownie, you'll immediately picture a sort of squarish dark cakey thing, sometimes with a scattering of nuts if you're lucky. Outsider Tart takes brownies to the max. Dark chocolate and nut, white chocolate cover with a green chocolatey sponge, a white chocolate with a toasted merengue crust - the possibilities really are endless. The bakers put passion into every little concoction they come up with and personally travel to the source of all of their ingredients to check they are top notch.

Can't wait for the Chiswick store to open but in the meantime catch them in farmer's markets in the west or get in touch with them directly for a special order.

Check out my review of outsider tart - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: glo Restaurant & Bar in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants


This is a generous 4 stars because I'm quite fond of the place though if I were to score on food alone (a rather big component on eating out I'm sure you'll agree) I don't think they'd cut it. Where they do cut it is fresh and comfortable decor, attentive staff, presentation and great deals - 2 courses for £8, and 2-4-1 cocktails 5-7pm each day (and pretty damn good cocktails actually).

We shunned the special and went straight for the platter of the house (£16 each) - which turned out to be a whole lot of deep fried somethings (unfortunately). As the most expensive item on the menu, I expected a tastier offering.

With a really weird fusion of asian and Italian dishes I think they do the Italian side a lot more justice - the caprese starter winning over the prawn dumpling dim sum hands down. I think they may try to cater for too many taste buds and should perhaps concentrate on doing a few really well.

I will be back during happy hour and quite intrigued to test their duck hoi sin pizza!

Check out my review of glo Restaurant & Bar - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Bentley's Oyster Bar & Grill in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Seafood


Excited to be taking part in London Restaurant Week we thought we'd sample one of the great restaurants the city boasts over lunch and to be honest I was a little let down.

Firstly they made the mistake many restaurants do with specials - rather than allowing the diner the opportunity to sample their spread and rave about them to friends (and on Qype), they had a bit of a lean offering for the 'special menu'. For starters we could choose between a salmon terrine or chicken liver pate and mains was either fish stew or a cooked chicken breast. Not what I'd been expecting after drueling over the menu all morning. The fish stew was mediocre, salmon starter was quite tasty but pate was better though very rich. Perhaps if we'd sampled some of their more notorious meals I would have more to rave about but alas.

Otherwise staff were friendly and restaurant had a comfortable ambience.

Oh and as smiley as the head waiter was, I wouldn't advise telling him he looks like the Halifax guy as he apparently gets that ALOT.

Check out my review of Bentley's Oyster Bar & Grill - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Crussh in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Cafes & Coffee Shops - Juice, Shakes & Smoothies


As a Crussh virgin I was rather dubious about 'yet another healthy bland chain' but gave it a go as my colleague was going to top up his smoothie loyalty card. I figured a smoothie would prep my body for the rough weekend ahead and scanned the many many options for one which took my fancy - a berry good one with some or other magical powers - £3. I then lazily scanned the usual wrap/salad/sandwich fair, but stopped before a very new and exciting prospect. A chicken salad sushi roll. Bizarre concept really - like a normal wrap, except instead of a tortilla type jacket, it's snuggled in a bit of rice and nori. Like an archeologist I beamed after my successful dig and decided Crussh was pretty cool. It came with a sweet sesame peanut satay sauce and was pretty tasty - also £3. I'll definitely be heading back with my tool belt to try one of their soups.

Check out my review of Crussh - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Food Secret in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - International


Specialise in healthy quick meals - especially soups consisting of finely chopped raw veg in a broth. Great concept but, being a newcomer, they have a few teething problems largely based around messaging - first thing people want to know if they're doing a build-your-own is prices. We've learnt the concept - we know whether it's a salad or a burrito or whatever that there's a base, a meat, sauces etc - just tell us how much each is. I shunned the soups on the shelf to go through the experience of making my own. Same tub, similar ingredients but it worked out to £6.60 instead of the shelvely £4.40 I was hoping for. Even though they tell you how much the total is before they make it up for you, it's one of those awkward situations where it's a little uncomfortable to back out of. You cannot see the separate parts and they could help you out by doing things like 1 veg = x, 2 veg = x etc. I am, and think many others are like this, happier to work out costs to my own budget in my head.

Otherwise soup was pretty tasty but just not worth the cost. Will check back to see how they're coming along though because I do like the idea.

Check out my review of Food Secret - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Kati Roll in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Indian


Great in theory and loving the Bollywood-esque interior.
What brought it down was unfortunately (as is the case with many places these days) the staff who barely acknowledged our existance - a pity a. because I'm an avid reviewer, and b. because it's really a place I would have rushed back to in my usual avaoid-the-standard-sandwich lunchtimes. The food was fun and tasty though overloaded with onion (seriously) which I plucked half out. It was a warm tastiness though, because of which I think I'll give it another shot some day for a second try. Give it a go and see what you think.

Check out my review of Kati Roll - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Snog in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Cafes & Coffee Shops - Cafes


Snog frozen yoghurt - so simple yet so rare. It's opened just in time for the slim-down-for-summer panic, and will no doubt take the burn off the three days of heat wave we can hope for.

It's fresh, the decor is funky with clean retro designs and vibrant colours. You can choose from three different bases - natural, chocolate and green tea (I opted for green tea cos it sounded gnarly) and one topping of strawberry goodness. Now the pricing seems a little over-bearing and it is a bit much I think, but if you go for the small tub with one topping it's £3.50 and that's a decent size. There's two other tub sizes - the large one really more like a pail. And toppings top up the price so go big or go home, but you probably can't go here every day :)

Check out my review of Snog - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Chilango in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Mexican


3 Fs - Fast, fresh and fabulous. We had a fun night in here last week in the upstairs area and got our hands on a burrito and even an educational piece on tequila (a la jose cuervo) to put an end to the bad rep tequila has as the studenty 'lets get wasted' tendency. Although many seemed to still give this a go :)
The Burritos were tasty and plump and as usual it's a great way to taylor it to your own tastebuds and have a meal that's a lot more effort to make in your own home, and you'd never get it quite as good. They also whip up a mean frozen margarita. Thanks Chilangos - Déjelo para usted ;)

Check out my review of Chilango - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Pho in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Other Asian - Vietnamese


Nifty lil' Vietnamese rezzie near Oxford street named after a traditional rice noodle soup. It's a great stop off for fresh, healthy meals that are good for the heart and soul with smatterings of ginger, chilly, coriander and lime.
I opted for the lemon grass chicken on cold noodles which was quite tasty but not a-MAZING. I did like the spring roll thrown in and definitely a fan of the brightly coloured decor and friendly environment. Average meals about £6/7 so not every day lunch but good for a change. Try the fresh juices as they're made right then and there so get in your 5 a day on the sly.

Check out my review of Pho - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Japan Centre in London

London - Shopping - Food & Drink - Delicatessen - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Japanese & Sushi


As a Sushi lover I was amazed I had not stumbled upon this little Aladin's cave sooner. Not only can you get trays of maki 6/8 rolls to take away for between 2-3 squids, but also all the weird and wonderful ingredients you could ever wish for to make your own.
I love poking around vegetables I have no idea about, and finding a place this central that has such decent prices is always a little bit exciting. Pity about the nonsense poundland-type stuff at the back, but a small price to pay.

Check out my review of Japan Centre - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Pure California in London

London - Shopping - Food & Drink - Health Food


I always feel good after a visit to Fresh Cal, but you can't really do it more than once a week. Although with the current Qype voucher where you spend £5 four times, and get a £5 voucher, may just make March my healthiest month ever.

There's something fun about making your own salad and I like loading up with a tuna/feta/carrot/sweetcorn n lotsa dressing combo. Mind you if they did roast lamb salad, or salad-a-top a wrack o ribs they'd probably have me in there more regularly.

Salads will cost you £4-6 depending on toppings, great smoothies from £3. Voucher ends 31 March so if you want to hop on the band wagon you'd better start jogging.

Check out my review of Pure California - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Scandinavian Kitchen in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Danish - Eating & Drinking - Cafes & Coffee Shops - Shopping - Food & Drink - Catering - Shopping - Food & Drink - Wine, Beer & Spirits


I'm so chuffed I took Qypers' advice and tried this little place out - it's my new bff. It's a little Scandinavian deli boasting yummy delicacies and intriguing kitchen cupboard-fillers.

I went for the 3 Smorgasbord (£4.50) which allows you to choose 3 small but tasty and beautifully-put-together open sandwiches to create your tailor-made meal. I opted for the roast beef, hot smoked salmon and Danish meatballs and all were tasty - the roast beef my best I think :)
The place has a great atmosphere and is really friendly, and the guy behind the counter is a hottie. In the horribly over-used words of Arnie, 'I'll be back'.

Check out my review of Scandinavian Kitchen - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Relais de Venise in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Steak Houses - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - French


If you didn't have school book French to fall back on, you would be forgiven for thinking the English name of this place was 'Steak n chips' because that's what it serves. Really. And this may have been a problem if it wasn't incredibly tasty steak and chips. So tasty in fact, that one in our party declared unprompted 'if I was on death row, I think steak and chips would be my final meal'. You heard it here first.

The place is authentically French from the passé little decorated tables to the aloof waiting staff. They don't waste time with menus or selection, in a way you kind of feel like a regular. They mooch up and ask what you'd like to drink and how you like your steak and no other communication about what to expect or at what price. Medium-rare doesn't cut it - you have to pick medium or rare. Simple. You're then left alone until a plate of salad arrives without a word. Semi-startled you munch through it and make way for the main, which arrives on a plate with a standard combination of steak-sauce-chips. I don't imagine anyone has ever tried to change the set combo or order, but there luckily is no need. Like mint and lamb, popcorn and movies, drunk people and kebabs; they're just meant to go together.

Food is tasty but will set you back £20 for the standard fare without drinks or 'else' which is a little steep for ever day lunch so save for special occasions. If only my belt line and purse strings could have supported dessert as it seems fellow Qypers have been raving about those.

Check out my review of Relais de Venise - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: H T Harris in London

London - Shopping - Food & Drink - Delicatessen - Eating & Drinking - Cafes & Coffee Shops - Cafes - Eating & Drinking - Cafes & Coffee Shops - Coffee Shops


This place slots in with the old 'don't judge a book by its cover' fandango - this little unassuming deli has probably been walked passed by hundreds who never knew of its soft chewy centre. It's amaaazing. The ciabattas are the size of rugby balls and the fillings are very generous. It's the kind of place where when you stipulate your toppings they make them on both sides of the roll then smack them together. Brilliant. When I was handed my warm toasted delight I wanted to climb over the counter and hug the little family behind it. But I thought they'd prefer cash. Prices start from £3, my parma ham, mozzarella, tomato and rocket ciabatta set me back £4.50 and I was very happy to hand it over given I've eaten half of it and am already full. But will be nibbling it throughout the afternoon because it's extra tasty. If you're in the area screw the chain stores, this deli is a must for super fresh, tasty Italian sandwiches.

Check out my review of H T Harris - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: El Burrito in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Mexican


Look, I'd never admit it out loud, but I'm no Mexican food connoisseur. My idea of amazing Mexican food is an old el paso burrito/fajita box set with some chicken strips and powdered seasoning. Slap on as much cheese, salsa and guac as I can stuff in there (yes even if all three accompanying every Mexican dish is pure sacrilage) and have an elbow-licking good time.

So given this, I may not be the best to give advice on the best spots to dine Mexican around the capital. But I have visited most and can say that El Burrito certainly hold their own. The Burrito was packed full but not greasy or runny but with a decent pack of flavour in there. As others have said, it's about £4.50 for a tummy-filling burrito, with an extra 50p for guac (a tad annoyingly). I was a little bemused by the dry tortilla chips they throw in the box, not quite sure what to do with them and wishing I had my salsacheeseguac trio to ease my worries but I guess I need to learn some time. Great for a hangover/work lunch hour/something different and affordable.

Check out my review of El Burrito - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Benugo in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Cafes & Coffee Shops - Cafes


Firstly I should mention that as a coffee shop, and seeing as I didn't get a coffee, my review may be slightly tainted. But we can't always have coffee now can we.

So,that in mind, my coke and sandwich were okay. They have their own little oven to freshly bake there bread and you can be assured of fresh food. But to be honest it feels a bit like Pret except the prices are a little more, and I want to havea little more for what I'm paying. Wraps and bagels are £3-4 and sandwiches range from £2.50 - £4 which is a little steep for every day living. But I didn't have the coffee. So maybe it's THAT delicious that people come from far and wide to buy it at Benugos. But now I'll never know.

Check out my review of Benugo - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: The Royal Oak in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


The Royal Oak did not hold my attention for very long - and I was surprised, given it's bustle on a midday week night. The place is relaxed-bordering shabby, and it's in a convenient location right near Clapham tube station. That's a good thing for them actually, given that it's not really the type of pub you'd go out of your way for.
There's some seating outside which is great for the summer. The toilets are dingy but on the whole it would make do for a meeting place, but I couldn't really imagine it being a favourite.

Check out my review of The Royal Oak - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Bagelmania in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Fastfood & Takeaway - Sandwiches


I've always been a tad annoyed by bagels - I mean why the hole? Why waste a bit of the roll like that and come on, it must be easier to through a blob of dough on a tray rather than worry about shaping it to have a hole. I read it was because in the early days they were sold on sticks. Since I have never seen a stick-weilding bagel salesman I'm guessing that's a little redundant. Anyway...

Bagelmania is a cost-effective, quick and decent way to get lunch in your body. The staff are not the friendliest but perhaps neither would I be if I had to explain the logic of a bagel and coke being more expensive than a bagel, coke, apple and packet of crisps - don't argue and always go for the less money more stuff approach. Not bad going considering you get all that for £3.99 (bagel and coke on it's own is £4.10. I know).

So near the top on the credit crunch lunch, if you're a silly roll with the hole fan you certainly won't be disappointed by bagelmania's offerings.

Check out my review of Bagelmania - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Match Bar in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Bars - Cocktail Bars


I was hovering between 3 and 4 stars and erred in their favour as there's nothing wrong about the place, it's just not a show-stopper. There are some yummy cocktails £6.50-7 each - try the ladyboy. There's also something quite novel about saying you had a fun night with ladyboys. Maybe just me.
As other's have said, great location and we visited as we've just moved offices nearby and it's something we'll definitely return to (so please give us discounts).
Will then try the food. And let you know. Because my opinion counts.
Book if you're a group otherwise expect it to be busy but it's bigger than other pokey bars so not nose-to-nose busy.

Check out my review of Match Bar - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Cantina Tequila in Johannesburg

Johannesburg - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Mexican


A new edition to the Fourways social scene, tucked away behind Cedar Square, this themed bar is ideal for a bunch of friends to meet up, have a few laughs and a good time. There's happy hour 6-8 I think but don't quote me, where cocktails are half price so about R15 each which is not bad going. Here it pays to be adventurous as while the daiquiris were so-so, there's one that sort of combines a pina colada with a daiquiri which sounds suspicious at best but is actually really yum.
Haven't eaten here but friends say the food is tasty.

Music is fun and decor is colourful and creative with corrogated iron sheets which give it a beach-side shack sort of feel.
Best or worst part depending on who you are, they walk around with bottles of tequila and give everyone free shots.

Check out my review of Cantina Tequila - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: travelzoo in London

London - Hotels & Holidays - Travel Agents


Travelzoo's strength is in its simplicity. It's not a sell-out littered with garish advertising or annoying second-hand-car-salesman-like tactics to get you to buy stuff. It's like a friend saying - Ooh look what I found, thought you'd be interested. And the deals they bring up are extremely tempting - 20 hand-picked travel deals to send your mind around the world by lunchtime.

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Qype: YouMeSushi in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Japanese & Sushi - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Delivery


Sick of tunneling through dry rice hunting for the so-called salmon that you were expecting when ordering inside-out SALMON rolls? The nigiri with a wafer-thin slice of fish that could go with any gust of wind? Maybe the maki roll with the pink dot sticker the put on either side because 'that don't taste nothin like fish?' Then call up YouMeSushi. I think they're the first place I've had sushi from where I think the rice-fish balance swings in favour of the fish.

The ingredients are fresh and the portions are very generous and are laid out neatly in a box with lashings of soya sauce and bucketfuls of wasabi. Congrats YouMeSushi for making sushi a main meal!

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Qype: Icco in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Italian & Pizza


This place is cheap - but not in the way like eew, *Shudder* cheap, but like 'Wow, not bad' cheap. The pizza toppings are pretty standard and for a decent-sized pizza cost £3.50-5.00. They're fast, tasty and you can generally grab a spot at the counter-like tables and bar stools to gobble them down. It's fast food at its best and great for a pizza fix. Just a warning - keep your arms close to your body or you may lose them in the quick swoops the staff do of the table - continuous swipes at anything not being held down - plates and cutlery to half-full glasses etc. It really isn't one of those kick back and relax places so if you're planning a chinwag you might want to find somewhere a little more laid back.

Check out my review of Icco - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Leon in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - International


This place quite appeals to me. It's a little different int he decor, in fact I was unaware of its chain-gang as it certainly doesn't feel like one. It's tucked away just off Oxford Street and is perfect for healthy tasty meals - soups, wraps and hummus - but a cut above the Pret kind of cookie cutter meals. They also do lovely fresh juices and considering their location, the prices are very decent. My friend had their grilled haloumi wrap which was pretty tasty - £3.50 eat it, and seeking a mini snack I got a hummus pot and giant warm flat bread for £2.25.

They have a scrummy-sounding breakfast menu with baps with fillings ranging from egg to sausage and bacon, as well as oats with 'pick-you-own toppings.

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Qype: Ember in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Bars


I had a rather pleasant Ember experience contrary to my fellow Qypers below. Whether this was because I did not eat, so did not chance the suggested slow service, nor think it's struggling with an identity crisis, I cannot say. But with a few drinks in me it was just the right balance of smart meets friendly and I had a good time. It wasn't snobbish, but it was smart enough to feel like you're on a night out. There was a l The mojitos are pretty good at around £6 each, and the music was vibrant but nothing special. It has a heated outdoor area in the centre where dirty smokers can go which probably gave it a star just like that. If you're in the area and want a bit of a night out I'd suggest heading here.

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Qype: The Jerusalem Tavern in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


This place is right out of the shire. It's a bit tricksy as whilst this place was not my cup of tea, it certainly would be for other people so it's hard to know what rating to give it. First off it is tiny. We went in winter so 'spilling outside' was not really an option. It was a thursday evening and just too packed to be pleasant. The second thing that makes it difficult is that it is an ale-drinker's paradise with fresh ales on tap, flavoured ales and the like. So my preppy magners was far far from present and so, not being a beer drinker, could not really find my niche.

Other than that it's full of character and the way it's crept down a quiet street and off the beaten track it does feel like a secret place you're privvy to knowing about and more likely to find locals in here than tourists.

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Qype: The Rock & Sole Plaice in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Fastfood & Takeaway - Fish & Chips


When slipping into this fishncips joint, you'd be forgiven for mistaking it for an averagy 'deep-fried-n-dirty' sort of place - not terribly sparkling, modern or organised. But that's not really why you came here is it? The queue for the takeaways streams out the door (as the deal here is a lot cheaper, shaving 3-4 squids off an avg meal). If you hover around the dining area between waiters darting back n fourth you may be lucky to nab a table - simple straight back wooden chairs and laminated tables. But in this instance simple is good.

When the food arrives you reach in your bucket for malt vinegar and salt, and salt up your good ol' fashioned hand-cut chips and climb in. The meals are not cheap, but for the occasional treat, this tenner is worth it. The fish was moist and tasty with a crunchy outer casing, squeeze on a bit of lemon and you're good to go. This is not going to fit in with a South Beach, Atkinson or any other kind of diet. It will in fact almost definitely give you a heart attack with prolonged consumption. But for a treat on a chilly day or after a big night, this will put your right.

Check out my review of The Rock & Sole Plaice - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: The Brewmaster in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


'What was that?' was my reply when the man at the bar told me the normal draft beer I'd ordered was £5. Now I'm not a particularly thrifty person but that was a little short of crazy. Now to be honest it was very unexpected. I'm sure if you took the wrong staircase when exciting the Liecester Square tube station you would pop up in the lavatory (does anyone actually use this word anymore?) - it is that close. So, tourist trap, my friends fell in it, but luckily this 'Londoner' swiftly shimmied them on to far better places to spend their pennies and night. I didn't have the food but the pub itself is fairly large with an upstairs area to cope witht he over-flow. But nothing special so unless you have to meet someone a heel-tap away fromt eh station and they're taking their sweet time, keep trucking.

Check out my review of The Brewmaster - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Cha Cha Moon in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Chinese


I cannee believe it took me so long to find this place. We really must work on our word of mouth people. So Cha cha moon is a Chinese restaurant which is kind of like a big school caffeteria - but in a nice way. You'll be elbow to elbow with a stranger so if you're a person who savours their personal bubble, go get your booth elsewhere. The menu is very simple - EVERYTHING is £3.50. Yes, everything. So you can have your little prawn dumplings (yummy) and yes, that's £3.50. Or you can have your noodle dish - again, you must be seeing a pattern by now, £3.50. They sadly lost a star as my beef noodle dish was slightly less flavoursome than I was hoping, but I will msot definitely be back. Great cheap, fast food. There was a queue when we got there but it zips along so just be patient.

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Qype: Sicilia in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Eating & Drinking - Fastfood & Takeaway


Long queue - check. Pumping 90s rave music - check. 3 faster-than-a-whip-crack wrappers - check.
The vibe in here is contagious and the pace is fast. Fast, tasty food. You read the windows outside for the extensive listings of various types or wraps with a few panini here and there. Best you make a choice as you do not want to be singled out when they yell 'You at the back, what are you having?'. If you're too quiet they'll gladly tell you and chatter away as the production line hots up to quench the lunch rush.

I'll definitely go back here as it's a place with a pulse. The reason I had to knock off a star was because I got the Sicilian - roast chicken, avocado, pesto, grilled veg and rocket. Only mine came sans the rocket, and the pesto was also missing out on the action. I will be watching with a beady eye next time. Oh and wraps are around £4-4.50 and are quite big. They don't take cards so come with cash.

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Qype: Mangosteen in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Thai


For it's location, Mangosteen's prices are excellent, but I'm afraid this seems to affect the taste and quality. It wasn't awful, it just wasn't right. I went for my favourite pad thai, which was really a bad thai, sadly down to the fact that the noodles must have been sitting all day as they were slimy and mushy, which made the rest of the dish taste a bit off and the texture a bit creepy. It's a pity as I had high hopes for this palce - it's still not bad for what you pay, but I might pay a few more pounds to get it spot on.

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Qype: bea's of bloomsbury in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Cafes & Coffee Shops - Cafes


Not a normal sweet-tooth-so-early-in-the-morning, I arrived at Bea's with a little trepidation. The coffees were good, the yoghurt, muesli and fruit was nice but not amazing. And I was hoping for one or two really yummy options which I didn't find. Perhaps they can consider some savory croissants like country ham with emental cheese. Or maybe I just missed the idea.

If you're a cake fan, pop in and have a look around as I'm sure you'll be pleased.

Check out my review of bea's of bloomsbury - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Janets Bar in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs - Nightlife - Music Venues - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Bars


It's been said so I won't harp on about it, but Janet's would be one of those unique little places that you'd love to have as a secret place to go to - that you couldn't help but tell your friends about - if it weren't for the crazy prices. And judging from other reviews, they would have made a lot less money out of all of us if they'd just scooched the prices down a bit - and we'd all undoubtedly be returning customers. But alas it's now somewhere I probably would not go back to.

Its quirkiness lies in the fact that it looks like it was decorated by an 80 year-old granny with an affinity for fluff. It's marinading in uber-kitsch decor which gives it some charm but alas, charm doesn't cover the drinks bill...

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Qype: Old Ship Inn in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


This should be called 'The steak ship' because that's what I remember it for. We found it when looking for a space to claim during the Oxford/Cambridge boat races, even though we saw sweet fanny adams from where we were...

But that's not important. Meat is important (drool) because meat is good. Soo good. I'm straying. What I mean to say is that they really do a spectacular steak here - or did when I was there. Cooked to my specifications and oh-so-tender. Perhaps if I ask them for a job they'd pay me in meat. Ok ok I'll stop. But seriously, if you're a meat fan you should head over and give this place a go. And my unfortunate veggie friend was quite chuffed with the vegetarian lasagne. ANd the chocolate cake was 'nca' (good). Oh it also has lovely outside tables and is right on the edge of the Thames so has the pretty meaty view. Did I say the do meat here? Hop to it.

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Qype: Buddha Bar in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Other Asian - Malaysian


When I shimmied inside this lush venue I thought I'd accidentally stumbled into Dans le noir - it was so dark I had to stand and squint for a few minutes while my eyes adjusted and I tried to scan the balconies for my friends. Yeah there were beautiful intricate asian-themed decorations, bouncers and maitre d's and the table settings were all very grand. But there was something distinctly not me about it. With a £9 glass of wine nestled in my hand, looking at my friend in a borrowed jacket as they'd turned him away with his jumper, I realised I couldn't wait to leave. I like a place where every now and then someone tips their head back and laughs uproarously, where lighting is delicate but natural, where people are friendly in a natural way. Buddha bar I'm sure would be many a girl's dream. But not this one.

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Qype: Casareccia in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Italian & Pizza


Fantastico. I'm a true believer that you know a place is good if it attracts people local to the country the food is from. In this case the Italians were out in full force as they streamed in and were welcomed like family into the restaurant by the owner and staff. The inside layout is simple but charming and effective in not detracting from the staff and the food, the kitchen open-plan and bustling in the back.

Without a doubt the most special part of the restaurant is the staff. I ordered a pasta (pollo e funghi) which was missing something to make it amazing, but it wasn't bad at all. I'd requested linguine and noticed it came with a mixture of spaghetti and linguine presumably as they had run out, but it really was not a big issue but we did mention it to the owner when he asked how we were doing. Without asking (as we had already forgotten the minor slip up) he offered a panna cotta on the house, that was very good. And of course we were delighted.

Why more restaurants will never get the idea of service and what little costs mean in the bigger picture I will never understand. But it would do them a world of good to visit Casareccia and experience a meal that puts the pleasure back into dining out.
Recommendations - the Pinot Griggio at £12/bottle and the amazing pizza whose name I've just forgotten - but it's a calzone type stuffed with ham and mushrooms, then on top it has parma ham, rocket and a round of goat's cheese, all bubbling from the wood fire and costing about £10. Starters all sound amazing but we went for the parma ham and melon (about £4) and a tricolore insalata with avocado, tomato, mozzarella and pesto which were both excellent.

Just proves that you don't have to go into central London for a great dining experience, and I will most definitely be returning.

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Qype: Bell & Compass in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


Fantastic little bar just on a corner on the slope between Charing cross and embankment tube stations. It's kind of a 'bub' or a 'par' - a mixture of a pub and a bar so it's trendy enough to keep the OAPs away, but chilled enough to head there after work for a drinks. The decor is simple but comfortable, and its really big so you can usually find a table. I think they also hire out function rooms so might be quite cool for upcoming Christmas parties etc.

They have yummy sounding food though we were only there for drinks, but very pleasant with great background sounds for you to have a good gnatter.

Def one of the best pubs/bars in the area so pop into it if you can.

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Qype: Nando's in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Portuguese


I'm a huge fan of Nando's and was quite impressed when I went online to look at the menu and they said I could select items to add to my cart. So I did rather excitedly, selecting sides from the drop down list and thinking how spledndid this all was. Until I noticed whilst adding meals to my 'order', that it really was just that - adding items to a list that would never get anywhere. Urgh. Plan B - phone through the answer. Plan C go for a walk.

Great branch and was really excited to try the new flavour 'mango and lime' (when did this happen and how did I not know about it??). Had a burger and opted for a salad while my colleagues went for chips. On the one hand my salad was most definitely there while one of the chips we paid for wasn't (oldest mistake in the takeaway book). But there was no salad dressing, which really was a let down - who wants just leaves? I was never asked about it and just assumed it came with something but alas.

So whilst my burger was amazing and juicy and exciting, my salad was not. Hence the two stars have been docked.

Check out my review of Nando's - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Pizza Express in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Italian & Pizza


Not a fan of chains, I've shied away from Pizza Express as it always seemed to me to be an Americanised version of an Italian restaurant - far removed from little family-run shops where Uncle Luigi welcomes you at the door whilst Mama Rosa neads the dough for your woodfire oven pizza.

So the thought of cloning a good idea and spreading it around the city makes me want to run a mile. But I am now a little compromised. I had this amazing pizza in there on a cold and rancid Saturday afternoon - it was called 'Theo's Favorita' and was a tradintional oval-shaped base (I liked as it wasn't the cookie-cutter circle you'd expect), had a great tomato base with roasted cherry tomatoes, fresh blobs of mozzarella but not too much, torn pieces of Parma ham, black olives and peppery rocket. It was about £10 but it really was so yummy I've caught myself thinking how good it is that with so many chains around London I am comfortingly close to one wherever I am. Only thing lacking is the service in here. I'm sorry Uncle Luigi and Mamma Rosa!!

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Qype: Bob Bob Ricard in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - British - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Bars


A little hoity toity? Definitely, but in an almost cool manner. When we heard a new restaurant, bar and all-day breakfast place had popped up in Soho this week, we had to head down and test the waters. The result was mixed. We were bowled away by the toaster on every table, the delicate little silver tea sets and booths with a 'press for champagne' button. Open until 3am in the city is a very good thing to know with smashing little booths in the downstairs bars, with the prospects of late night breakfasts to warm the cockles of your dear heart.

In fact it's probably good to have a few drinks before you enter, so that the shock of the bill won't be quite as hard-hitting. We went for the eggs benedicts (or florentine or the smoked salmony one for which the name evades me). And a tea or coffee here and there and it worked out to £20 per head. I know! A toaster on every table is a little short of amazing. A £20 breakfast is not and hence a star had to go. They should also think of adding their menu to the website to ease people into the idea of it.

Check it out for yourself - 'the new Wolseley' I think they're trying to be, and if the staff keep up their eagerness, they could do quite well. But a little bit OTT to become my regular. (And I'd have to get a part time role in the kitchens to keep it up)

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Qype: Food for Thought in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Vegetarian


As a red-blooded meat-eater, I had to put on a brave face when walking into Food for thought. A canteen-style counter awaits you down the little staircase with a chalk board boasting the day's fayre - all very hearty, wholesome, home-madey food. The prices seem rather steep for vegetables, but they are generous portions and are sure to fill you up. I had the Hungarian vegetable goulash for £5 which came in a rustic ceramic bowl as I was shifted along the fast moving queue. You fight for a seat around the diminutive tables, but luckily this adds to the charm. It's not somewhere you'd languish in as there's too many comings and goings and so can't quite relax, but for a midweek 5-a-day boost during your lunch break, it's a good stop to make.

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Qype: Simply Thai in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - American - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Thai


I am in love. Well I can't be sure if it's love or lust, but I can't stop thinking of my little Simply Thai flirtation.

In a moveable little stand on Rupert street, you'll find the delights of Simply Thai. They have a few different curries to choose from and two different sizes - £3.50 for small, £4.40 for large. You can also choose if you'd like yours with a pad thai base or rice. I opted for the mild beef curry with pad thai - the large as I was ravenous. I was so full but had to finish is as it was just so damn tasty. If you're in the area I would definitely recommend a visit but make sure it's during lunch time as I've often come towards the end of it and they're packing up as they've sold out.

Check out my review of Simply Thai - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: The Real Greek in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Greek


The real Greek is a popular chain of Greek restaurants that specialise in meze bits and pieces. It's fitting in our current fad of tappas-esque eating but some of the dishes are better than others - and also a little better value while some are pretty extortionate, especially as they recommend 4-5 per person. The hot mezze are £4-6, cold mezze £3-ish with flat brads at £2 per portion.

I'd suggest you grab some flat breads and a dip or two (try a traditional one and one other like the mackeral and dill). Other mezze worth getting are the tiroptika (I think) which are tasty and the salt cold which is probably the best dish. Meh goes to the lamb cutlets, halloumi skewers and aubergine/halloumi thing and steer clear of the grilled calamari.

It's a fun outing and this particular branch is nicely popped on the terrace which is perfect if the weather is bonny.

Check out my review of The Real Greek - I am Urbanite - on Qype