Reviews by velvetrabbit

River Cafe (Restaurant)
31 December 2008

Had a lunch here a couple of years ago and it was great - staff very attentive, really looked after us and did their best to make sure we were warm sitting outside on a rather damp day in June. And although we don't have children ourselves, we rather liked the laidback atmosphere and the fact that it made families feel welcome (at least for lunch).

However, on returning to the refurbished restaurant in December 2008, in a party of five, the whole experience was rather disappointing. Staff were not particularly friendly or courteous. When we entered, a cluster of employees at the front desk took a couple of minutes to finish their conversation before acknowledging us; we sat for ages without being offered an aperitif and eventually had to ask for these; my coat was over the back of my chair and no one offered to hang it up, even though it was clearly visible to waiting staff; we had to top up our own wine and actually the food, although good, was rather forgettable.

Having just returned from Sydney where the food and service are world class, it was rather a let-down to have to put up (and pay for) this sort of dreary second-rate dining experience.

On the plus side, we did like the huge stove, which was a warming sight on a wet December afternoon. But would we go back to this restaurant? Probably not...

JLT (Hair Salon)
30 December 2008

I love this salon - it's always such a haven of calm despite being so close to Oxford St. The staff are friendly, Pierre is a hairdressing god and felt like a new best friend after only one appointment. And lying down to have your hair washed - genius! The lighting is really flattering too. The whole experience makes you feel like a princess, which surely is what every salon should strive for.