I was with two friends and we had the most amazing two hours of visual and aural stimulation that I have enjoyed in a long time.
Photo Pipilotti Rist
After the show were all a bit mentally stoned and in need of a good feed. We found ourselves a table in the riverfront bar and kitchen at the BFI.
The waiter came over to our table and asked us what we would like to drink, mine was simple, a bottle of beer , my two mates wanted a pint of ale, which turned into more of a challenge.
It took us three attempts at ordering before they told us what was 'actually available' as opposed to what we would like off the ale list.
It seems to be a growing problem these days when visiting central London restaurants to be able to find a waiter or bar person who has a basic knowledge of the English language. It makes me wonder how they got through the interview process to get the job in the first place.
Anyway returning to our table , our drinks eventually arrived and we placed an order for three 'Bavette' steaks medium rare, which arrived promptly and I have to say cooked well.
The Bavette Steak is not a cut of beef I am familiar with and so I was pleasantly surprised with its flavour and succulence. Bavette Steak, also sometimes called 'Flank' is cut from the lower part of the animal and not generally a popular choice at the butchers, however given the current financial climate I see it as a good alternative to the more expensive cuts when ordering steak in restaurants.
So overall a good meal was had, but I have to say very poor service and when the bill arrived at £66 for three, they had added an additional 12.5 % for service, 'What Service' I hear myself say. This left me feeling that these guys are not really interested in building a good returning customer base. Maybe you don't need to bother with service when you can rely on the thousands of tourists that pass through central London every day.
Out OfTen
food 7
service 0
