Mediterraneo — Restaurant in London

BOOKING Not able to book online, so have to call-in to make a reservation. On the day, we wanted to come in earlier than our reservation time, so called up and were told we could come earlier which we appreciated. Upon arrival, we got to choose where we wanted to sit.

FOOD The in-person menu differs a little from the menu online, which isn't a problem - just an observation worth mentioning. The food was really poor and not up to the standard I was expecting even for a lowkey Italian eatery. I ordered seafood risotto; the seafood in it was rubbery and tasteless which we all know is a clear sign of it being overcooked. The risotto was completely mushy. The dish hadn't been thoroughly seasoned, but had an overwhelming taste of tomato. My friend also didn't enjoy her meal either, but managed to finish hers. I could barely make an indent, it just wasn't appetising.

ACCESSIBILITY Whilst accessiblity issues isn't something I personally have to deal with, I thought it be useful to highlight that this restaurant would be nearly impossible for someone with mobility difficulties to eat at. Outside, there are a few steps you have to climb before even entering. And then there's a steep winding staircase downstairs with no banister half of the way to access the toilets. Thought it was a little weird that the staff toilets come before the customer ones. You end up finding yourself a bit lost: I unintentionally walked into an open space where spare tables, chairs and several bottles of wine are stored. Whilst I'm not a thief, I'm sure the same can't be said for other customers...

SAFETY There is a real lack of health and safetly at this restaurant. Firstly, you are served your food in the same boiling pan that they cooked it in instead of a plate...Despite the fact the waitress told us to be careful, I still accidentally burned myself. The pans are made from the type of metal that gets VERY hot. I could've gotten a 3rd degree burn! It's really reckless - would've been so much more sensible to just serve the food in a normal plate. Secondly, when I went to the toilet, there was bleach left around the inside. I understand that the toilets need regular cleaning, however it's dangerous considering that the restaurant claim they're "child-friendly". Additionally, there were several bottles of bleach left ontop of the cistern - I feel my personal security could've easily been compromised with these harmful products nonchalantly chilling there.

STAFF/CUSTOMER SERVICE This is the area in which solidified my decision not to be returning. At first, our waitress seemed to be nice and attentive. But once my order had arrived and we started eating...she no longer was. She kept coming to our table every 5 minutes challenging whether I liked the food or not and wondering why I hadn't eaten more. When eating out, most customers want to be left alone to enjoy (or not, in this case) their food and not be harassed every second by the serving staff. Unfortunately, the situation worsened when it came to clearing the table. She seemed annoyed that I hadn't finished my food, and I was pressured into bringing the rest of my food home with me in a takeaway container; she made me extremely uncomfortable. I do not appreciate as a grown adult being treated like a child who doesn't want to finish their school dinner. I think this type of behaviour is completely unprofessional - it's unacceptable.

OTHER CUSTOMERS/ATMOSPHERE When we walked in, there was a middle-aged White working class couple who weren't exactly impressed by our presence (I'm a WOC and my friend is Russian). This didn't end up being a problem though, as they left promptly after. There's football playing in the background on a flat screen: it's was quiet, there weren't really any other customers despite it being a Saturday evening. It's got a very intimate vibe, whilst still feeling local to the area with older teenage couples and footballers in their early 20s.

Unfortunately, I will not be...

Reviews

I recently had the pleasure of dining at "Mediterraneo," an authentic Italian gem tucked away in the heart of the city. From the moment I stepped inside, I was transported to Italy, enveloped in an ambiance that exuded warmth, elegance, and a hint of rustic charm. My experience at this restaurant was nothing short of exceptional, and I am thrilled to share my glowing review. Ambiance: Upon entering,I was greeted by friendly staff and a cozy, dimly lit setting that exuded an air of sophistication. The walls adorned with Italian scene and created a pleasant atmosphere. Soft Italian music played in the background, which added a touch of romance to the overall dining experience. The restaurant's layout allowed for intimate conversations, making it a perfect place for both a romantic dinner for two or a gathering with friends and family. Service: The service was impeccable. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, and genuinely passionate about the dishes they served. The Waiter was a true connoisseur, recommending the perfect wine pairing for our meal and guiding us through the menu with expert precision. Cuisine: The menu boasted an impressive array of classic Italian dishes, each with its own modern twist. We began our culinary journey with a delectable Antipasto Italiano, a delightful assortment of olives, and bruschetta, setting the tone for the feast that followed. For the main course, I chose the Risotto ai Funghi , a creamy and flavorful delight that showcased the chef's mastery of traditional Italian flavors. My dining partner savored the Spaghetti Carbonara , a mouthwatering pasta dish infused with the richness of cream. Both dishes were expertly prepared, using high-quality ingredients that shone through in every bite. Dessert was nothing short of heavenly; we indulged in Tiramisu and Cheese Cake, both executed to perfection and providing a sweet end to an unforgettable meal. Overall Experience: This restaurant succeeded in creating a magical dining experience that whisked me away to the enchanting streets of Italy. The passion and dedication of the staff, the attention to detail in every aspect of the restaurant, and the outstanding cuisine made this an evening to remember. The prices were reasonable, considering the exceptional quality of the food and service, making it a fantastic value for the...

We found this 'restaurant' in the Dining Guide which we got with The London Pass. I have never thought in my weirdest nightmares, that places like this exist in London, also it is listed in a book offering individual cuisine. It was individual in careless customer service, which went into being almost rude. Firstly, we entered into the restaurant holding the dining guide and waiting outside before 5 for 15 minutes, until the place opened. When it came to ordering, we were told fries and any potato included sides are not available yet as the place had just opened at 5pm. The kitchen should be ready to make anything which is listed on the all day menu. Even no apologies, after we looked surprised at the waitress. After we got the food, I got my medium steak well done. I didn't complain, I was fine with it, it happens, I'm not a complaining person. Then we got the authentic burnt garlic toast on the edges. I guess it's the speciality of the place, as I saw that in another picture of previous customers. However I liked the sauce with the steak, the salad and the broccoli was lovely, and the Evian bottled water was cold and delicious. After finishing with the plates, the waitress arrived to collect them. No satisfaction check at all during the whole dining. When we were ready to pay, we showed her the book and gave her the card inside. She said that she has seen a different version of Dining Guide card, but no problem with redeeming this. But it's not accepted on Saturday and Sunday, because of the contract with the company. And the book doesn't say anything specific about the offer. We were just simply shocked, after we were coming in with the book, sitting at the table with the book placed on the table, and she said at the end we cannot use this. No apologies, she seemed careless. Of course I payed the service charge, which was awful and compared to a McDonald's, you might get a better one in fast food industry. Horrible experience, average quality of food, small portions, unprepared kitchen, and probably the worst service I've seen in London. I do not...