Monday 16th June

It used to be quite rare to find good local restaurants, but suddenly we have lots.  In Walton we have the Samui Thai and the Indian, both of which serve good food but in not the best surroundings.  But her on the Isle of Dogs we have a couple of Thai places that are outstanding and of course a few BanglaDeshi Indian places.  Best of all though is the Old FireStation in Manchester Road and only a short walk from the house.  The Décor is simple but effective; everything is white and red.  They have cleverly hidden all the ceiling furniture, the air-con and the sprinkler system by hanging gold painted picture frames horizontally just below them.  Though empty the frames distract your eyes from the ceiling.

But of course, the two other elements of a successful restaurant are the service, which here is excellent, attentive but not intrusive, and the food.  It is Greek or Balkan with enough general Mediterranean dishes to strike a balance.  Starters include Albanian Liver with very hot harissa sauce and prawns in hot chilli jam, plus some nice veggie options.  Main Course always include at least four vegetarian options and the portions are generous too.

But the best thing is the price, around £25 a head including drinks, which is almost unbeatable.   We go quite often because the food is great and we always have a good time.  I just wish some of the Restaurants I work with could be as good.