Tipped

Should of ordered mac'n'cheese?

March 09, 2008

My second visit to Automat was a definite disappointment. Out for an early lunch we popped into Automat about midday. As we didn't booked we were seated in the front area which is nice though lacks the warmth of the booths in the middle section and buzz of the open kitchen at the back - booked ahead to experience those.
A previous dinner experience was good - I remember we were pretty pleased with our steaks. But lunch this time was a big disappointment. Wanting something relatively light I ordered onion soup and a ceasar salad, my husband had the Automat burger. Both meals were below standard, especially for Mayfair. My soup was topped with a huge slice of bread covered in cheese - at this stage I was ok with the fact I could scoop it onto the side plate, but thought a slice of bread was OTT and perhaps gratinated croutons might have been more delicate. However worse still the bottom quarter of the bowl was filled further with grated cheese. The flavour of the soup itself was great but the cheese was waaaaaaaaay too much. My ceasar salad also failed to please. The lettuce was fresh but shredded into bite size pieces which I felt spoilt the 'crispness' that I expect from my ceasar salad. Too much dressing and soggy bacon did not add to the experience. A poached egg might have lifted the dish but was absent. My husband described his burger as dry and fries overcooked. So maybe the regular chef was away during this visit, but despite good wines and ok service I won't be giving Automat another chance.

Diner Deluxe

November 22, 2007

So, by all accounts I should have gone for the macaroni & cheese with bacon (optional). It was late and I figured it would be a bit much but that didn't stop me going for the burger and fries as 'lighter' alternative. Where's the logic in that?! Suffice to say that it was all goodness, though I do think it's pretty difficult to screw up such a classic number. Fish and American beef options sounded bold and enticing but I was more taken by the cocktail list, if truth be told. Me a mojito and friend a Long Island Ice Tea - hit the spot on a wet wednesday night.
The restaurant is in three sections; cafe/bar area at the front (where we were); railway carriage style mid section with booths (the best bit) and then the largest section at the back of the restaurant with an open kitchen. Ideal for bigger groups.
Despite service being of a standard order, I'll definitely go back. It's got a good vibe and the macaroni cheese is knock out - apparently

Tags: diner, american, burger, fish, meat, cocktails, Mayfair

American Diner

July 02, 2007

Automat is an upscale American diner where the food is as expected: mostly caloric and yummy. The macaroni & cheese is the best as well as their salads for those that want something lighter. They also have homemade milkshakes.

Tags: diner, American, burger

American diner with a twist

July 02, 2007

I have to say the homemade Macaroni at Automat takes the cake. Though it is a place to see and be seen, the food is still down right comfort food set in a traditional 50s diner look and feel. If you go, plan to stay as the portions are American style too.