Back To Basics

I work round the corner and have been a frequent visitor over the years. This place is excellent and has never let me down. Some really good imaginative ideas - for example, the bread starter, a warm brown loaf on a wooden platter with three herb butters. I've always liked the sea bass with ginger and spring onions, or the monkfish and cous-cous. Substantial portions; I seldom bother with side dishes (not their strongest suit to be honest).

Although they do serve meat dishes, the fish is what they're really about. ( In the office we just refer to the place as "The Fish".)

Suggest booking in advance, as it's a small corner-cafe type premises and gets v. busy. Nice bustling vibe.

Not cheap, but top quality.

I had oysters, which at the time tasted ok, followed by swordfish that i felt must have been defrosted, as it was tough and tasteless.

Food Poisoning followed a poor meal with poor service.

I am going to demand my money back; I suggest you don't risk your money or 12 hours of gut-wrenching pain!

I visited Back to Basics on a Saturday afternoon, and despite the area being quiet, inside the restaurant was bustling and atmospheric. I ordered a beautiful cheddar and seafood tart, followed by salmon on a bed of spicy lentils with a chickpea and feta crust. It was all delicious. The food was so fresh, cooked to perfection and the portion sizes generous. Everything coming out of the kitchen looked wonderful. The waitresses were friendly and efficient without rushing us, and our whole experience was extremely pleasurable. I will most definitely be returning. Thank you to all there!