Tipped

What your mama told ya

December 26, 2007

This is one of a chain of restaurants burgeoning in London. The ambiance is utilitarian as opposed to cosy and everyone is seated on communal wooden benches where you can see the open plan kitchen (which I always approve of). The menu consists of traditional rice and noodle dishes, some with a twist, such as the wasabi chocolate fudge cake.

The food is cooked to order and comes as and when it is ready, so be prepared for it to arrive separately from the rest of your party. The food is good value and the quality does not suffer because of this is.

The staff in this branch are always pleasant and efficient. On our last visit I left my credit card behind and when I went back the following morning I found to my surprise that the Manager had kept it safe in the till for me. I tried to leave a tip by way of thanks but he insisted that it was all part of the service - what more can I say...

Tags: asian, fast food, fresh, child friendly

Crowded Chain Restaurant

August 22, 2007

Well thanks to Time Out’s 2:1 coupons, I’ve finally been to Wagamama, 3 times in the past month in fact, which means I have an opinion now. It’s just ok!

I mean the place is a food factory that would make Henry Ford proud – people queue outside (amazingly); staff pass out menus so you’re ready the second you get marched in and sat inches away from random people; then they then take your orders with handheld computers to avoid the round trip to the kitchen; and finish off by warning you your food will come up in no particular order (translation: edamame after your main). That’s the part I like best about the place.

The part I like least is the ordinary and essentially bland food. I’ve now had one of the curry dishes and 2 of the Yakisoba style, both fine, but definitely not great, and nowhere near as good as you can get in authentic restaurants. The curry was the best of the 3 by the way.

Price wise I don’t think it’s much of a bargain: £7 - £8 for most dishes + miso and/or starter + £4 for an Asahi. I’d rather eat amazing Pho for £5. I’ll probably go back as long as they keep running these 2:1 promotions, but don’t think I’d pay full boat.

Yumymama's

July 11, 2007

I love Wagamama's mainly for their food. The Chicken Catsu Curry is so yummy and the Eldeflower is a unique refreshing beverage. And that white chocalate ginger cheesecake ends the meal perfectly. The place though is always warm (open kitchen will do that). But I still like it. But if you are particular about temperature, this might not be the place for you. I like the quircky cafeteria seating and the occasional surly staff. The big wooden spoons look fun to play I mean eat with!