Each of us forms an opinion of a restaurant founded upon some unique combination of factors which we instinctively develop along the way and, thereafter, apply to every meal we eat. The manner in which I judge a restaurant applies perfectly to a place like Lobos.
Was recently in London and ventured into Lobos on their opening night, 12 November. My GF and I were desperate for dinner, and walked in at @10:00pm. After hearing us plead/beg to be seated, the person who greeted us talked to management who agreed to seat us even though they'd "officially" stopped seating people. We were warned that they'd begun to run out of ingredients on their "first night."
For the rest of the night, we weren't greeted by perfection in food, but very near it. What made this a 5 star experience, however, was the attitude of the staff and what turned out to be one of the managing partners, Joel.
Waiters who were not fully ready for prime time instead hustled around with 200% effort on anything we asked - ever present yet not intrusive and overbearing. Dishes we ordered that for which they'd begun to run out of ingredients were improvised. And, most importantly, the service and attitude of the staff was charming, impressive and infectious. One quickly felt like you were dining with friends who were trying their absolute best to make you enjoy your meal. Finally, during dessert, Joel came over and talked with us for 10-15 minutes and, I can honestly say, one could instantly understand where the staff acquired its care for their patrons. The staff's service attitude reflects Joel's core beliefs and it was clear that's what he looked for when he hired staff.
Not sure when I'll be back in London, but if I am, I will absolutely without any doubt eat at Lobos or any restaurant in which Joel is involved because I know I'll have a meal that feels like it was prepared by my family. All this on their legitimate, opening night - wow!
PS: the Roasted Lamb is amazing and the Iberico Pork was delicious. read more