Qype: The Alice House in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


Popped in for an after-work-drink and took up a table in the buzzy outside area despite rain and a chill. Inside I'd agree there's a trendy/indie feel to the place that's a little on the dark side with fairy lights around the bar and some good looking people behind it.

It seems to attract a mixed bunch of media types - dressed smart-casual and all jovially topping up their drinks and chattering loudly, which is a great atmosphere after a long week but imagine if you're a quiet pub type this wouldn't hit the spot.

I've heard the food isn't terrific but just seen they doa brunch menu so may need to head out here on a mild Sunday and try it out for myself. Will definitely return in the evening with a bunch of friends - but reackon you'd either need to get there very early or book a table.

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

Qype: Banana Tree Canteen in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Other Asian


A collection of events unfolded that would normally have me plucking off stars in no time, but I sort of have a soft spot for the place, and would definitely return with friends...

We came by on an impromptu Friday eve and waited in a little queue to be seated at one of the basic wooden tables surrounded by mild chatter and a friendly vibe. We were soon seated and I had a hankering for a shandy but wondered what might come close. At my hesitation the waiter said 'What was what?' To which I replied 'Er I don't suppose you do a shandy do you?'. 'Of course we do!' he bellowed 'We have beer, we have sprite; no problem!' and off he went.

I went for my good ol faithful phad thai but in this instance it didn't pay off - it seems opting for prawn and chicken meant half the portions of each and it lacked some of the flavour as I swallowed my food envy at my dining partner's plate - a grilled snazzy lamb dish. It's clearly one of those spots where it pays to be a bit adventurous. Despite waiting a bit longer than normal for our food, the service was attentive and for two to have a main and a drink for £25 it's pretty decent on the money bags too.

Check out my review of Banana Tree Canteen - I am Urbanite - on Qype

Qype: Josephine' s Restaurant in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Chinese - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Other Asian - Philippine


Josephine's is a perfect example of the importance of adapting to the changing environment, or face becoming extinct.

We had a large table booked for lunch but for the most part of our dining were the only ones in there. The service was extremely friendly but rather slow as the head waiter painstakingly moved along the table to each person to slowly hold out a menu for them. And wrote our food on drinks orders out slowly on two different writing pads. It's old fashioned service which can be charming, but can also be a little dreary when timing the lunch hour.

We were handed menus and after scanning through and being a little weary of the price, one of our group asked if they had a lunch menu. Yes. Oh. Well, group in here for lunch, kind of seemed like a no brainer and a bit frustrating given the feleling you're being squeezed for every penny.

The food was disappointing - I've been lucky enough to have a Filipino friend cook a few dishes for me and they were far better - I went for the adobo wich is a pretty classic dish.

I think the place lacks a bit of passion - to survive in London you either need to be a little family business with top nosh at decent prices, or be going against the grain with a new idea or theme. Sadly Josephine's needs to jack up their act a bit - and it is sad because the decor and staff are very warming. I just can't recommend the food.

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