Reviews by G Curtis

Ottolenghi (Restaurant / Delicatessen / Cafe)
18 August 2005

I've eaten here a few times whilst visiting friends in Islington. Attractive display of breads and cakes in the window and lots of other tasty looking snacks available in the deli section as you walk in.

The service is mostly ok - there have been a few hiccups but nothing that can't be forgiven. While the minimalist decor mostly works for me, I don't like the seating as you feel rather too close to the other diners - it's far from being a cosy, personal or romantic dining venue. I was also caught out on my first visit with a starter they serve UNLESS you ask them not to. This seems a somewhat unnecessary break with convention to me.

Aside from these minor issues, the food is just fantastic with inventive cooking, fresh ingredients and delicious flavours. It's not cheap, but worth every penny and I shall definitely return.

Borough Market (Food Market)
18 August 2005

I work nearby and go on Friday afternoons when it's not as busy as it gets on Saturdays. It's the best place in London to buy meat, breads, vegetables, chocolates and virtually every other foodstuff you could ever need. People here really care about their food and the range, freshness and quality is just unbeatable. My only problem is carrying it all home on the tube!