I've heard nothing but good things about this place, so we were looking forward to trying it-- and come on; where we live there are slim pickings, so when I hear there's some kick-bootie Asian food in the vicinity, you can bet your bum that I'm going to head in that direction (but then again, knowing this, I should set my expectations accordingly...).
The food IS good-- probably the best Thai I've had in the northwest to be sure (although, considering the other Thai food I've had has either been in a fusion-type of restaurant where they serve multiple types of Asian cuisine OR fast food Thai, which, well, in both cases, you get what you pay for. Although, as to the multi-menu of Asian cuisine restaurants, I must ask-- why major in the minors??? Pick a specialty and stick to it. Not all Asian food is the same just because it's from the same continent!). In any case, the food wasn't outstanding. Mostly, though, the experience was brought down by the "meh" service. We made a reservation for 7, but arrived early from a day out exploring the countryside. The restaurant opened at 6, and we walked in around 6:10 to see if we could perhaps move our reservation up. Although the restaurant was completely empty, the hostess mysteriously told us she could seat us at 6:45. Assuming that there were other reservations we decided to go for a walk along the neighboring canal. When we returned, we were puzzled that only one table was filled. Well, we were early, which was our fault, not theirs... though, unfortunately, the service went downhill from there. While they were very attentive in the beginning (4 different people came over to take our drinks order... even after they were already served), and fast (I am talking 5 minute turn around for entrees fast), getting the bill was nearly impossible (and this still with only a handful of tables filled). I seriously think the staff would turn into stone of they smiled or said anything pleasant. Even though it wasn't busy, they really did make us feel like it was a chore to take our order and serve our food... it made for a disappointing evening.
That being said, maybe it was just an off night (and in their defense, service in Britain isn't stellar by any means). The food was good, and the location pretty ideal, especially on a beautifully sunny, last-days-of-summer kind of night (which it was). The view (of the canal) was picturesque and I imagine a nice way to spend an evening (when the staff is having a better night, that is...). read more