Reviews by freya 4

The Engineer (Gastro Pub / Pub)
23 April 2009

Don't ever go there! It is THE worst experience I have had in a gastropub in London ever. I don't even think they should be allowed to call themselves a gastropub.

We booked a table and got seated well enough. The waiter was rushed, but nice (they were clearly short-staffed, although they didn't seem too bothered or rushed because of it). We went straight for mains and ordered duck (was told it was going to come pink, it came more like well done), fillet of sea bream (filled with bones) and salmon with parma ham (although the waiter got it wrong the first time round and we had to wait another 10 mins for the last dish to arrive). We also ordered the 'special' side - courgettes - only to be told they had sold out (at 7.30pm!).

The chef had obviously lost his passion for cooking and should really pack it in. If you can't be bothered taking the bones out of fish, don't serve it. And if you can't cook duck, don't put it on the menu. Added to this the fact that none of the dishes were nice or seasonal and the glass of Gamay I ordered was like vinegar (not worth £8.50), I think they should ask themselves why they are in business. It is certainly not to provide good food or good service.

The Princess (Gastro Pub)
22 April 2009

We don't often stray to the East End but last night we discovered the dining room at The Princess and it was fantastic. There was a nice intimate atmosphere upstairs and the service was friendly without being overbearing. Our food came quickly (trio of lamb was beautiful and is definitely worth the trip!). We will be going back. All in all, a great evening.