A Hedonist's guide to London: Editor's picks
Favela Chic reviews
Never again! It is not about the place, it's all about the people. I have never come across such a rude manager. This boy just said: "I don't want f**ckin' people like you in my club!" We were shocked. The place has no class. The staff in general are so rude - it starts at the door and is even worse inside. As I said, never ever Favela again.
by sarabal, 30 Jan 2010
by sarabal, 30 Jan 2010
Don't go to this place, even if someone pays you to do so.
We went last Friday and we never will go again. I went there in a group of 20 people, 15 of us for dinner. Food was mediocre and the staff rude. We were churned out of our table as soon as we'd ordered the food and drinks - some of us couldn't even finish eating - because they wanted the table for the "second seating of the night". We were overcharged on the bill but couldn't question it because there was no time for that. The music was awful too - DJ on trial was the excuse.
by biribidiongly, 22 Nov 2009
We went last Friday and we never will go again. I went there in a group of 20 people, 15 of us for dinner. Food was mediocre and the staff rude. We were churned out of our table as soon as we'd ordered the food and drinks - some of us couldn't even finish eating - because they wanted the table for the "second seating of the night". We were overcharged on the bill but couldn't question it because there was no time for that. The music was awful too - DJ on trial was the excuse.
by biribidiongly, 22 Nov 2009
A special place. The food is amazing, the staff very friendly and cool, and the place rocked from 10-2. Where else in London can you drink, dine and dance like this?
by tapper, 17 Sep 2009
by tapper, 17 Sep 2009
I have been there so many times and never had a bad experience. The music is fabulous and the people and atmosphere are great. I'm always the last one dancing.
by jetskaa, 30 Jun 2009
by jetskaa, 30 Jun 2009
I would not recommend this restaurant to anyone: mediocre food, unpleasant staff.
I took ten people there for my birthday in May. The staff kept hassling us, aggressively, to order before all the people were there (2 people were 30 mins late). Then because there were 11 of us instead of the 12 we'd booked for, they wanted to charge us for food for the missing person. When the food arrived it was really disappointing - for example, plain chicken not in any sauce and with no discernable seasoning. Our jug of cocktails was bland too. And Before we'd even finished eating, a bouncer was hassling us - again, aggressively - to put our bags in the cloakroom! Really quite unpleasant all in all.
by roxane.mcmeeken, 19 Jun 2009
I took ten people there for my birthday in May. The staff kept hassling us, aggressively, to order before all the people were there (2 people were 30 mins late). Then because there were 11 of us instead of the 12 we'd booked for, they wanted to charge us for food for the missing person. When the food arrived it was really disappointing - for example, plain chicken not in any sauce and with no discernable seasoning. Our jug of cocktails was bland too. And Before we'd even finished eating, a bouncer was hassling us - again, aggressively - to put our bags in the cloakroom! Really quite unpleasant all in all.
by roxane.mcmeeken, 19 Jun 2009
If you're after some S&M treatment by the staff, this is the place for you. In one word: shit!
by dejan76, 25 Mar 2009
by dejan76, 25 Mar 2009
I have been to this place on a number of occasions and, apart from the lengthy waits while the door staff let in a multitude of friends/regulars ahead of those who have queued legitimately for a good while, this place is an absolute gem. Very good music (always an eclectic mix), everyone dancing and having fun, and strong but tasty drinks. I will no doubt be back in the near future.
by stevepangli, 04 Feb 2009
by stevepangli, 04 Feb 2009
I went last Saturday and there was a fool DJ playing awful music... I remember Favela music being far better and not so commercial and cheesy!
by fablopes78, 22 Jan 2009
by fablopes78, 22 Jan 2009
I went to Favela late last weekend, and had a fabulous time. People dancing everywhere and great music. Will definitely go again.
by andersson_as, 15 Jan 2009
by andersson_as, 15 Jan 2009
We went last Friday, and we'll never go back again. I should have read these reviews beforehand...
We ordered Cuba Libre and specifically asked for the Anejo Havana rum. When the bill came, we were charged the highest price for the most expensive rum, which we hadn't asked for. When I asked for an explanation, the waitress was so rude and replied they didn't have the one we ordered (so why is it in the menu and why didn't she ask if it was okay to use the most expensive rum?!) A rip off. No apologies. In the end, we had caipirinhas instead, which really did not resemble the proper variety (having tried the most delicious in South America).
We left very disappointed, thinking we didn't miss much as it was overcrowded and there was not enough space to move in such tiny place.
by monicag, 05 Sep 2008
We ordered Cuba Libre and specifically asked for the Anejo Havana rum. When the bill came, we were charged the highest price for the most expensive rum, which we hadn't asked for. When I asked for an explanation, the waitress was so rude and replied they didn't have the one we ordered (so why is it in the menu and why didn't she ask if it was okay to use the most expensive rum?!) A rip off. No apologies. In the end, we had caipirinhas instead, which really did not resemble the proper variety (having tried the most delicious in South America).
We left very disappointed, thinking we didn't miss much as it was overcrowded and there was not enough space to move in such tiny place.
by monicag, 05 Sep 2008
I read the comments below before going to this establishment but thought I'd give it the benefit of the doubt. What a total mistake...
Rude woman on the door, plastic French two bob bouncer, manager who probably couldn't manage to control his own bladder... all in all, a recipe for disaster. I thought these types of places were consigned to the dustbin. Please folks, avoid this joint. Why did so many queue up expecting a good night out??
by lm46, 03 Aug 2008
Rude woman on the door, plastic French two bob bouncer, manager who probably couldn't manage to control his own bladder... all in all, a recipe for disaster. I thought these types of places were consigned to the dustbin. Please folks, avoid this joint. Why did so many queue up expecting a good night out??
by lm46, 03 Aug 2008
I'm not a 'professional', so I don't know whether you'll want to take this review seriously or not! I absolutely love the Favela Chic in Paris, so when I found out about the one in Shoreditch I decided to have my birthday there - big mistake. The food was alright and the cocktails were nice. My main issue was our waitress, who was really rude when it came to paying the bill (after a mix up with the table) and spoke to me in such an aggressive manner that I could hardly speak I was so upset! Another member of staff was also rude to my friends. My sister was so angry she had to leave after about an hour. If it wasn't for the fact that the DJ played some ace songs and my friends plied me with drink and cheered me up, my night would have been totally ruined. Needless to say, I won't be going back. But I'm gutted, as I think if they sorted out the atrocious attitude of the waitressing staff they'd be great!
by natalientim11, 16 Jul 2008
by natalientim11, 16 Jul 2008
A terrible, terrible place. A perfect example of the worst type of fashionable, souless, overhyped dumps that sum up much of unimaginative London nightlife... Rude, aggressive staff spoilt what should have been a fun night. Its claims to be 'Brazilian' are laughable too - the drinks were awful, the music was European and the staff were French. I am Brazilian and went with a group of BR friends, and we found the place ridiculous.
We had booked a table for 12 for a birthday, spent plenty of money and expected to be made to feel welcome. The food arrived a dish at a time over a period of 30 minutes. 2 of us had our plates taken away before we had finished eating and the very pretentious staff made a point of being as unhelpful as possible, rolling their eyes and tutting at every request we made.
A couple of hours after we'd arrived (and after we'd finished our cold meals) some extra friends arrived. The door staff refused them entry, as our group already consisted of 12 people, although they didnt want to eat, just join the group and have a drink. We were told our group must operate a '1 in, 1 out' policy - so some friends must leave before others could join. When we queried this we were told we should leave if we didn't agree with their policy. The place was only half full at the time, the 'dancefloor' area had huge amounts of space. Apparently we had wronged the staff by inviting a couple of extra friends to join us. When we argued our case we were again told to leave, and the door staff also waded in to strutt about like little Hitlers fresh from boarding school. It was surreal.
Needless to say, we left asap, and met our friends outside to decide what to do next. While standing on the pavement fully 10m away from the bar we were then 'moved on' very aggressively by 2 members of the door staff. Apparently we were blocking the front of the building.
The whole experience would've been hilarious if it wasn't so utterly ridiculous. And expensive. There are HUNDREDS of better bars than this in London. It bears NO relation to Brazil or a Brazilian experience. They care only about the money, and they are happy to let you know that. And £28 for a jug of alcohol-free ice which they call a 'capirinha'??? Sums up the place perfectly. Avoid at all costs.
by jl2008, 02 Apr 2008
We had booked a table for 12 for a birthday, spent plenty of money and expected to be made to feel welcome. The food arrived a dish at a time over a period of 30 minutes. 2 of us had our plates taken away before we had finished eating and the very pretentious staff made a point of being as unhelpful as possible, rolling their eyes and tutting at every request we made.
A couple of hours after we'd arrived (and after we'd finished our cold meals) some extra friends arrived. The door staff refused them entry, as our group already consisted of 12 people, although they didnt want to eat, just join the group and have a drink. We were told our group must operate a '1 in, 1 out' policy - so some friends must leave before others could join. When we queried this we were told we should leave if we didn't agree with their policy. The place was only half full at the time, the 'dancefloor' area had huge amounts of space. Apparently we had wronged the staff by inviting a couple of extra friends to join us. When we argued our case we were again told to leave, and the door staff also waded in to strutt about like little Hitlers fresh from boarding school. It was surreal.
Needless to say, we left asap, and met our friends outside to decide what to do next. While standing on the pavement fully 10m away from the bar we were then 'moved on' very aggressively by 2 members of the door staff. Apparently we were blocking the front of the building.
The whole experience would've been hilarious if it wasn't so utterly ridiculous. And expensive. There are HUNDREDS of better bars than this in London. It bears NO relation to Brazil or a Brazilian experience. They care only about the money, and they are happy to let you know that. And £28 for a jug of alcohol-free ice which they call a 'capirinha'??? Sums up the place perfectly. Avoid at all costs.
by jl2008, 02 Apr 2008
Don't listen to any of the bad reviews! If you're looking for a relaxed atmosphere where everyone's gonna dance the night away, this is the place for you! Was there for a mate's leaving party and we all had a blast! The staff are great. Didn't try the cocktails - will do next time. At times the music selection feels random., but somehow it just works. Highly recommended!
by amoros, 16 Feb 2008
by amoros, 16 Feb 2008
I'm a bit confused by all the negativity that seems to be directed at Favela Chic. I've been there quite a few times and have always had an excellent night. The staff have always been extremely helpful/friendly, the drinks are great and the general vibe is fabulous. The so-called 'professionals' below seem like rather unpleasant people who'd be better served staying at home!
by Halita O, 19 Dec 2007
by Halita O, 19 Dec 2007
If you have tastebuds, do not eat here! The food was cold, tasteless and overpriced. The tables were covered with plastic tablecloths that resembled something from a roadside diner. The ladies toilets either had locks that do not work or no toilet seats and no soap for handwashing (and considering they serve food, you would think that soap in the loo would be a priority!). The serving staff are civil until they hurry you off the table, then the smiles and civilities disappear. Furthermore, once you have paid, they do not bring you your change. I believe they think it's their right to take your money without consultation, even though a rather large service was included on our bill. The bar area gets very full, so if you are out just for a few drinks it's fine but do not go there to eat. I think anyone who gave this place a five star rating was probably a member of staff. attempting to improve its image.
by Naughty Angel, 16 Dec 2007
by Naughty Angel, 16 Dec 2007
WOW... I am shocked to see the terrible reviews on here. Of course, mainly by 'professional people'. That term being a load of rubbish anyway - professional what?? I have been to Favela Chic many, many times for parties and just for a swift drink on my way home from work. YES, I AM A PROFESSIONAL AT MY JOB TOO (just a note to suit-wearing losers). I have found the staff to be very friendly, even under great pressure. That place gets jammed, and by people who want to have fun!
I have had totally amazing meals there as well. Yes, you get asked to make way for the next booking, but you have plenty of time to eat your amazing meal before you shuffle along (it's not a conference room after all). This place gets wild, so be ready for a wild night! To all you people out there moaning, go to Pizza Express and leave everyone else to have fun. This place is 11/10.
by BEN JAMES, 30 Oct 2007
I have had totally amazing meals there as well. Yes, you get asked to make way for the next booking, but you have plenty of time to eat your amazing meal before you shuffle along (it's not a conference room after all). This place gets wild, so be ready for a wild night! To all you people out there moaning, go to Pizza Express and leave everyone else to have fun. This place is 11/10.
by BEN JAMES, 30 Oct 2007
I spent last Saturday at Favela and had a great night. I've been loads of times and have enjoyed it every time. It is so different to everywhere else that claims to be Brazilian. Yes, it can be difficult to get served, but where isn't on a Saturday night if it's a decent party place to be in? And the mohitos are worth the wait - even at 1.30am the barman took his time and made me and my friend an excellent cocktail. That is what I call good service. I think you would love it if you went and would end up going back for more.
by Miss BPatel, 23 Oct 2007
by Miss BPatel, 23 Oct 2007
Ok. You will not believe this... Six friends eating awful, overpriced food but trying to enjoy themselves - after all, when friends get together it's always fun. Until some waitress kicks you off the table because a bigger group has showed up to eat. I got told off, because I was taking too long to pay the bill, while my friend was still trying to chew through his supposed sirloin steak. £40 per head and kicked off the table - fantastic! Please don't ever compare that place with Brazil. Even the real favela is friendlier.
by Max vinicius, 12 Oct 2007
by Max vinicius, 12 Oct 2007
We stumbled upon Favela Chic simply by accident with a group of friends (some of which we had made that night and happened to be Brazilian). It was Swap-A-Rama night and all of us had the most amazing time. The doorman even helped us get back in when our Brazilian friend with a thick accent asked for "five shots" and the bartender thought he said "f*ck off." The place was packed, and my only complaint was that they ran out of alcohol at 2 am! We stayed on though, having the best time. We're all definitely going back and bringing all our mates. The place was so diverse and fun. Screw Disney World, this is the happiest place on earth!
by Allison88, 11 May 2007
by Allison88, 11 May 2007
Have we missed a great bar in London? Let us know.
