Things here are ridiculously expensive. Last month before my checks arrived, I was rudely awakened when I saw that I was $500 in debt with no way to dig myself out, and I nearly pissed my pants. So then, I decided I should re-evaluate my spending habits and buy less in general.
Yet, a month later I'm still not sure whether I've really changed. There are a few culprits out there, namely these restaurants that keep beckoning me with their delicious, semi-affordable food ('cause we all know good, cheap food don't exist in London).
One of the biggest offenders out there is Hare & Tortoise. I've only been to the one in Bloomsbury, and already I've been there four times! It's always packed at peak hours with a long line outside, a sure-sign anywhere that a place is worth checking out. Their menu serves up popular East Asian dishes, from standard maki rolls to Singapore rice noodles. Everything is within a good price range, and for 5 to 6 pounds one can expect to leave with a sizable food coma. Big eaters like myself should be quite satisfied.
As for quality, it's by no means the best, but it's leagues better than your standard Chinese take out. Having grown up in the Bay Area, I know respectable Asian food when I taste it -- and this is quite good actually. The flavors aren't lacking, and while not everything is as fresh as they could be, they're all quite solid if not better. I ordered a Curry Laksa my last time. It was probably the most stand-out dish I've had there, so I definitely recommend it to anyone with the opportunity to eat here.
"Spicy curry coconut soup with slices of grilled chicken breast, slices of fish cake, prawn and squid. Served with rice noodles, garnished with tofu, beansprouts and cucumber." Just look at this baby!
Like most restaurants in London, don't expect great service. It's what happens when no tip is required -- not that I mind much!
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