Farmer J St James's Park — Restaurant in London

Rapidly declining value for money

I have been visiting Farmer J at least 3 times a week since it opened in Victoria last year. Sadly, the quality of the food and size of the portions has been on a gradual decline, leaving me to now sadly consider taking my business elsewhere.

Portion size: within the first 6 months of opening, the food portions were generous, which meant value for money was just about OK (given you tend to pay £10-12 for what tends to be a very simple meal). Since the turn of the year, the portions have been getting laughably small - to the extent there are now gaps on the prison-like cardboard tray. We have queried this a few times with the workers (in the most part are very friendly and happy to help!), who begrudgingly added a smidge more rice to the tray.

Food quality: the meat has declined in quality. It is rubbery, and often not hot despite the staff putting new portions under the lights regularly. In addition, the sweet potato is now rancid. I suspect there has been a change in the oil used to cook them… would not recommend.

Would like this place to turn around (there are only few adequate lunch spots in Victoria), although it’s becoming more challenging to...

I have been a loyal customer of Farmer J for over three years and have always appreciated their quality brand. However, with their growing popularity, I’ve noticed some changes that, unfortunately, haven’t been for the better.

While the food remains good and they use really nice ingredients, the portion sizes have noticeably decreased, and prices have increased significantly. Of course, inflation plays a role, but what used to be the best breakfast deal in Victoria no longer feels as good value.

The staff, who were once consistently helpful and friendly, now seem less patient and less flexible — for example, the breakfast deal includes coffee only, with no option to substitute tea, which can be disappointing for non-coffee drinkers.

Overall, Farmer J is still a decent spot for a quick lunch, but it has definitely lost some of its original charm and the cozy, homely vibe that...

Sadly this place is let down by the portion sizes. Because the food is tasty, I would have liked this to remain an option for lunch in the area, but I can no longer justify spending £12-13 on a tray of food that is half empty and simply does not constitute a meal. You can tell the staff have been told to limit portion sizes, so I do not blame them. They nervously try not to catch too much food as they fill the tray and then accidentally knock pieces out of the tray if they feel they have gone too far, which is just laughable and makes for a very uncomfortable and disappointing customer experience. This is true not only for the protein, but also for sides and the grains which is a cheap carb - you think they would just load it up. I am used to paying a lot for things in central London, but this place has redefined rip off and unacceptable...