Andrew Edmunds

ANDREW EDMUNDS treats diners like Tetris blocks. They are dropped into the windowless basement, shoe-horned in the corridor, propped up at the bar, or even left on the pavement perched on creaking, slatted patio chairs. And most willingly surrender to this tube like treatment. Why? -Because most of the time, the tube works.

The food here is unceremoniously good, the wine list unexpectedly tolerant and the prices are fine. Above this, however the experience is authored. Somewhere, someone is almost illegibly scrawling a fresh menu every single day. They are taking time to point out the virtues of the sherry spectrum on blackboards, and making prominent mention of other off-piste stickies (Bertrand Rivesaltes '84, Coonawarra Botrytised Gewurztraminer...) under the list of puddings. They are offering decent (Pol Roger) Champagne at an effervescently cheerful by the glass price too.

In the kitchen, retro dishes like Duck a l'Orange are wittily rejuvenated, brilliantly becoming Duck a Blood Orange and Beetroot, with Snow Pea Shoot Salad. There are misses, too, tantalisingly talked-up, but in reality really poorly executed, like the Pistachio and White Chocolate Log, actually made with dark chocolate and lifelessly presented. An enquiry into that identity crisis received: "The Chef is Swedish".

Overall, however, despite being cramped into near claustrophobia, my feelings towards this Hogarthian setting are happy; in this unlovely city, a thoughtful approach has charm.

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Fantastic little place, really good for a simple romantic date. I keep coming back to this place for its great food, excellent wine list. Only slight negative is that they try and pack you in downstairs but mid week this is rarely a problem.

Saw Sienna Miller sitting outside here the other day, so decided to give it a try for lunch with a friend, I love these undiscovered little gems in Soho and the food did not disappoint, hearty food made with quality ingredients. Service was very friendly and a perfect place to tuck yourself away with a loved one, drinking fine wines and eating til your hearts content. Fully recommended!

RUDE STAFF. VERY RUDE. NOT SOMEWHERE I WOULD RECOMMEND.

This is my favourite restaurant in Soho.