Qype: Thai Orchid in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Thai - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants


I agree with the other reviewers below. The Thai Orchid is pretty crummy and, like c_montford, "I always leave feeling a little disappointed". The Pad Thai was dry and fairly tasteless and service was sluggish (but not rude). Clapham need a good Thai restaurant! The Thai Orchid, The Pepper Tree and The Banana Leaf just don't quite get the Hunter stamp of approval.....

Check out my review of Thai Orchid - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Starbucks in Hamburg

Hamburg - Eating & Drinking - Cafes & Coffee Shops - Coffee Shops


A nice little Starbucks right next to Rodingsmarkt metro station. English is spoken here and the staff are always quite friendly. I'd probably opt for Starbucks over Balzac coffee, but maybe that's because i'm 1/2 American! One thing that slightly annoys me about this particular branch is the lack of fresh fruit which makes getting a healthy breakfast difficult. Brits will be pleased to hear that this particular Starbucks is well stocked up on Earl Grey, Darjeeling and English Breakfast tea!

Check out my review of Starbucks - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Shalamar in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Fastfood & Takeaway


Popular with the "infernos fallout", Shalamar serves up fried chicken, chips, burgers and much more (all Halal of course). I've only been in here once and to be honest, with all the fast food joints on Clapham high street, i doubt i'll come back. Don't get me wrong, the chicken strips in here are delicious, i just prefer happy valley a few doors down or even nando's.

A solid 3 stars.

Check out my review of Shalamar - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Playlounge in London

London - Children - Toys


Anywhere that sells 3ft Ralph Wiggum (Simpsons) action figures is alright in my book. Playlounge is a big kids paradise and is packed with weird and wonderful japanese toys, books and trinkets. This stuff isn't cheap, but it's so unique that it's definitely worth a look inside.

I haven't spent much time in Japan, but i kinda imagine this is how all toy shops are (or should be!) in Tokyo!

Check out my review of Playlounge - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Miromesnil in Paris

Paris - Transportation - Public Transport - Stations - Underground Stations - Transportation - Public Transport - Public Bicycle Stations


The closest Metro station to Qype HQ in Paris and a very agreeable little station indeed. Miromensil is slap bang in the middle of the 8'eme and is a great stop to get off at for xmas shopping, coffee shops and the Palais de l'Eysee. Be warned, this station gets pretty busy during rush hour so expect a scrummage or a wait on the platform for an empty train if you're travelling on a weekday between 6-8pm.

Check out my review of Miromesnil - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford

Oxford - Arts & Entertainment - Museums


A fine museum - dark, musty, jumbled and a great place to go exploring. The museum is arranged according to how the objects/artifacts were used (rather than history/origin/age) which is kinda cool. I'm not sure if these exhibits are still running, but i would highly recommend "the shrunken heads" and the "witch's bottle". In fact, all of the witchcraft history in the Pitt River is absolutely fascinating.

Well worth the visit and great for kids too.

Check out my review of Pitt Rivers Museum - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: John Hollingsworth in London

London - Services - Services - Other Services - Property - Estate Agents


I really like the staff in John Hollingsworth (particularly in this branch). The JH website is awful, but hey, this review is about the branch on Abbeville road so i'll stick to that. The girls in here (they were all girls when i walked in) were very sharp, professional and took me out on viewings immediately. I never found my dream flat on Abbeville road, but when i start looking again in the new year, i will definitely be back!

Check out my review of John Hollingsworth - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Lidl in London

London - Shopping - Food & Drink - Supermarkets


I struggle to see why people rave about Lidl so much. Maybe it's just my cheap friends, who knows, but i find it hard to see why anyone would do their food shopping here when this particular Lidl is metres from a huge Tesco and a stones throw from an even bigger Sainsbury's. The only time i have ever shopped here was for a house party (cheap water, cheap ice and passable party snacks) and i must admit it did the job and was easy on the wallet. Still, i'm not sure it warrants its current 4 star rating!

Check out my review of Lidl - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: M Moen & Son in London

London - Shopping - Food & Drink - Delicatessen - Shopping - Food & Drink - Butchers


Without a doubt the best butcher in South London. Moen & Son are open Monday-Saturday and provide Claphamites with exceptional meat (that's what she said?). We ordered a pork loin last weekend which was phenomenal and i often get steaks, sausages and roasting chickens from here.

It's worth noting that Moen & Son have also setup a stall at the Venn Street Christmas market (just around the corner). At weekends you'll find them here with a whole roasted pig serving up pork and apple sandwiches at £4 a go. Perfect!

Check out my review of M Moen & Son - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: BAR SOCIAL in LONDON

LONDON - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Bars - Cocktail Bars - Nightlife - Casinos


I like Bar Social. While the poker night isn't a patch on the Priory Arms in Stockwell, it's still pretty decent and the crowd is friendly. Decent range of bottled beer (plenty Asahi and Becks available which always scores well in my book!) + nice staff.

This is a good bar to come to if you are in and around clapham junction or looking for somewhere to start your evening off. They even have belly dancing!

Check out my review of BAR SOCIAL - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Party Superstore in London

London - Shopping


If you need a fancy dress costume for any occasion, this is the place to come. Costume range from £10 (cowboy) to about £100 (Chewbacca) and the staff are always helpful. Be warned, around Halloween all of the good stuff goes really, really quickly. I had to settle for a dodgy fake moustasche and a flower shirt (i went as Magnum PI).

If you live in SW4, SW11, SW8 this is pretty much the only fancy dress shop i can think of. There are better ones in Fulham if you're willing to go that far.

Check out my review of Party Superstore - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: The Eagle and Child in Oxford

Oxford - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


Sister pub of the Lamb and Flag across the road, the Eagle and Child is a fantastic pub, steeped in history. As you can read below, this is Tolkien's old watering hole and the meeting place for the famous literary group the "The Inklings". Good selection of ales, friendly staff and decent pub grub. Popular with students and tourists with a guide book and a cracking weekly pub quiz.

Hunter's Tip - Try the Pie & Chips!

Check out my review of The Eagle and Child - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: The Turf Tavern in Oxford

Oxford - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


How the hell have i never reviewed the Turf Tavern!? This is an absolutely awesome pub and you're knee deep in history if you're sipping on a locally sourced ale at the bar here. Everyone below has said how great it is, so here are a few quick fire facts about the Turf:

- It's foundations date from the 13th Century and the bar is 400 years old.

- It used to be called the Spotted Cow but the name changed in 1842.

- The Turf used to be an ilegal gambling den, so they setup just outisde the city walls to avoid prosecution.

- Former Australian Prime Minister set a Guinness World Record for consuming a yard of ale in 11 seconds in this pub.

- And of course, this is where Bill Clinton famously "did not inhale" back in the 70's

- FACT: This is an awesome pub.

Check out my review of The Turf Tavern - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Bodrum Kebab in Oxford

Oxford - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Indian


This is the kind of kebab shop where they aren't afraid to give you "extra stuff" with your meal and I love that. If you order a chicken kebab, expect a mound of chips on top of your meal and a free can of lilt. Awesome. These aren't the best kebabs in Oxford, but the level of service and the "extras" make this a 5 star place in my book.

TIP - Try the chilli sauce! It's awesome!

Check out my review of Bodrum Kebab - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Manoir Aux Quat Saisons (Le) in Oxford

Oxford - Hotels & Holidays - Hotels - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Gourmet - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - French


Without question one of the best restaurants in Oxfordshire (if not the UK). Le Manoir is massively over the top and oozes sophistication, but it's just so, so good. It has been consistently voted a top 10 restaurant for locals and tourists (and rightly so).

My personal recommendation:

Go on a warm summers evening and try to get a table outside (you will definitely have to book). Order the Fois Gras to start with and the roast lamb for your main course. Polish it off with a decent bottle of burgundy and you're all set. Oh, bring your credit card. This meal will set you back at least £100 per person. But it's definitely worth it for a special treat!

Check out my review of Manoir Aux Quat Saisons (Le) - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: The Bedford in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


I'm pretty sure this is my favourite pub in Balham. Great for live sport, decent pub quiz and plenty of beers on tap. The upstairs function room seems to have events on pretty much every night - comedy nights, poker, gigs (people that have played here before - Alistair Griffin, James Fox, Paolo Nutini, Guy Chambers, The Storys, Foy Vance) private parties. This is definitely an "activities pub" right down to the monopoly and Jenga behind the bar!

Decent outdoor bit for the summer and good snack food (i'm yet to go here for a main meal). The Bedford is the perfect warm up spot before a big night out in SW4 and SW12.

Check out my review of The Bedford - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: La Maison du Chocolat in Paris

Paris - Shopping - Food & Drink - Sweets & Chocolates


Some of the best (and arguably the most expensive!) chocolate i have ever tried. La Maison du Chocolat is the perfect spot for christmas shopping. I picked up some awesome little treats (all boxed up and gift wrapped) and, although expensive, it's hard not to get swept up in the magic of this place. The lady that runs the shop is a typical Parisian. Everything is "fantastique" and "incroyable" and she takes time to tell you about the chocolates (and the world famous chilli ice cream). Be warned, no English spoken here, but then that's part of the fun isn't it!

Check out my review of La Maison du Chocolat - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: La Pampa Grill in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Latin American


La Pampa Grill is surprisingly good actually. I've always been of the opinion that if a steak in London isn't more than £15, it's probably going to taste like a leather shoe, but my thoughts on this changed last weekend. Great service, nice ambience and good humoured waiters (similar experience to haggislondon below!). But this place gets a good name because of the steak. Try the rib eye or the rump - both are excellent. How do Argentinian's manage to make their steak taste so good!?

Check out my review of La Pampa Grill - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Tortilla in London

London


Massively disappointing. Chilango, Benito's Hat, El Burrito and Freebird are streets ahead of Tortilla. I just paid £7 for my large steak burrito with guacomole so i was expecting good things, but what turned up was very average. The steak was particularly poor quality, almost like the kind of meat you would expect in an army ration pack. They aldo do fajita wraps, salads and tacos, but i'm pretty sure i won't be coming back in a hurry.

Tortilla is the McDonald's of the London burrito scene. Epic fail.

Check out my review of Tortilla - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Haus 73 in Hamburg

Hamburg - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs - Eating & Drinking - Cafes & Coffee Shops - Cafes - Nightlife - Music Venues


I agree with Ali's comment - "why don't i go here more". I'm not particularly freaked out by the kiosk by the entrance (in fact, it's a very convenient place to by cigarettes!). They also have table football, cheap drinks (+ excellent cocktails) and a nice little lounge bit out the back.

Haus 73 is a great warm up place. If you're planning a night out in Sternschanze, i would recommend eating at Oma's Apotheke (just around the corner), heading to Haus 73 for cocktails and a bit of table football and then Zoe 2 for beers before the Reeperbahn. Purfick!

Check out my review of Haus 73 - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Nachtlager in Hamburg

Hamburg - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


Review in one line - "A loud, fun and very busy toilet scrummage. The beer is cheap though."

In all honesty, it depends on the night of the week with Nachtlager. Monday-Thursday this place is actually quite a nice spot to relax - table football, comfortable sofas, chilled out music, but at the weekend it all becomes quite chaotic. Don't get me wrong, it's alot of fun, you just don't want to be here sober. Or even half-cut. You need to be on the west side of at least 8 beers to appreciate the full "Nachtlager Experience". Oh, and don't forget to go to the loo before you come here. I'm really not joking about the toilet scrum :)

Check out my review of Nachtlager - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: babel in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Bars


I've only ever been here during the day, so i can't really comment on how crazy it gets after dark! Plenty of lagers on tap, but make no mistake, this isn't the kind of place where you'll find London Pride and pork scratchings! In the words of Super Hans, this is a "fizzy lager, logo in the foam" kind of place - leather sofas, sharing platters and girls called Felicity. The staff are nice though and they do whip up pretty decent cocktails.

I agree with JaneB's comments, if you can bag a leather sofa in the summer months you are golden. A great place to relax after shopping on Northcote road!

Check out my review of babel - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Villandry Restaurant in London

London


A very decent, French style restaurant on Great Portland Street. I've been to the Villandry food store a couple of times before, but today was my first time in the main dining area. I can highly recommend the rib eye steak with chips which i wolfed down with gusto. It'll set you back £25 (and to be honest, you can get a better steak at the Gaucho Grill), so it's not cheap (but thankfully i wasn't paying!). Wine selection is excellent and we got stuck into a very nice bottle of Beaujolais. Like the food, wine is not particularly cheap though, a bottle of 2005 Barolo will set you back £80 and the Chateau Neuf du Pape was about £60 if i call recall correctly.

I'll be back i'm sure, but i'll have to save my pennies if i want to eat well!

Check out my review of Villandry Restaurant - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: The Caviar House Prunier in London

London


This is without a doubt my favourite shop in Heathrow Terminal 5. If you're travelling overseas (and of course you are other why would you be in T5!) this is the place to pick up gifts. Fois Gras, Vintage cheddar, excellent dried meats, wine, cavier... it's all here. I'd can highly recommend the wheels of vintage somerset cheddar - £12 for a huge chunk of some of the most delicious cheese i think i've ever eaten!

Extremely friendly staff who are happy to dish out samples (so this is also a good place to come if your flight is delayed and you're a bit peckish!)

Check out my review of The Caviar House Prunier - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Harms & Schacht in Hamburg

Hamburg - Eating & Drinking - Cafes & Coffee Shops - Cafes - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - International - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Bars - Cocktail Bars - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Austrian


A great space for a private function and everyone has a great time, but Harms & Schacht kinda let themselves down with the food.

Good points - Friendly staff, decent canal side location, cool smoking area and relatively cheap booze.

Bad points - Reasonably slow service, a bit of a mission to get here from the middle of town and the food! I know German food is generally pretty nasty, but this place takes the proverbial biscuit.

I'll be back for a drink, but i'll pass on the food thanks!

Check out my review of Harms & Schacht - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Giraffe Restaurant in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - British - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - International


I like Giraffe, and this is a particularly good branch. Excellent smoothies, good burgers and one of the best Enchillada dishes i have had in London. Service is always quick and friendly in the Battersea Rise branch and i've always been well looked after.

One word of warning - This is on the fringes of the "Nappy Valley" so expect 100s of screaming 2 year old and yummy mummies at the weekend!

Check out my review of Giraffe Restaurant - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Reeperbahn in Hamburg

Hamburg - Nightlife


Ahhhhh the Reeperbahn. Stag parties, night clubs, fast food joints, sex shops and more prostitutes than you can shake a stick at. This is not a place for the faint-hearted and certainly not somewhere you want to take the little ones for ice cream. The Reeperbahn needs to be experienced for its sheer sleaze and debauchery, but if you're looking for a less touristy scene hit up:

- Hamburger Berg (student street)
- The Schanze (relaxed, cobbled streets and nice bars)
- Grosse Freiheit (live music, party street)

Check out my review of Reeperbahn - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Golden Pudel Club in Hamburg

Hamburg - Nightlife - Clubs


Ah, the Golden Pudel. Very cheap (beers are between 3 and 4 euros and entrance even at the weekend is less than 5 euros) and if you're into German eurotrance, this is the place for you. Don't expect to get a seat in the Pudel, this place is rammed from about midnight onwards and the dancefloor is busy and sweaty.

If you're in Hamburg on a saturday night, i'd recommend hitting the bars of the reeperbahn and then heading to the Pudel at about 2.30am. Leave the club at 6am and head for the fish market to congregate with all these other ravers eating fish sandwiches. Perfect!

Check out my review of Golden Pudel Club - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Farmers Market on Venn Street in London

London


An excellent addition to Clapham. Venn Street market is in test phase at the moment, and if it proves popular with locals, may become a permanent fixture in the new year.

Plenty of locally sourced treats (as well as some French and German stalls). I can highly recommend the pork and apple sandwiches and the Moen & Sons stall + the German bratwurst! Pieminster pies, Monmouth coffee... it's all here and this is a great places to pick up locally sourced xmas treats.

I'll be back this weekend to finish up the xmas shopping!

Check out my review of Farmers Market on Venn Street - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Mooli's in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Fastfood & Takeaway - Indian - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Indian


Love it. Try the beef filled roti or the paneer wrap. Both are excellent. The lunch time special is incredibly good value - £5 for a Mooli, a bag full of delicious poppadoms and a fruit juice. Friendly staff and really close to my office!

Burrito + Curry = Mooli!

Check out my review of Mooli's - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Le Cavern' in Paris

Paris - Nightlife - Music Venues - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Bars


A great little venue with live karaoke in the basement every wednesday night. The band are excellent and seem to know practically every song ever written. Friendly, English speaking staff and plenty of vodka to sample! The Qype event at Le Cavern' was a roaring success and i can't wait to come back!

Check out my review of Le Cavern' - I am ahunter - on Qype

Harrogate

I'm going to be heading up to Harrogate next weekend and i'm desperate to hunt down the best pubs and bars. Any suggestions? A mate of mine just got a job in Harrogate so i'm popping up to visit him.

Qype: Pret a Manger in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Cafes & Coffee Shops - Cafes - Eating & Drinking - Cafes & Coffee Shops


Particularly friendly staff in this Pret which is why i'm reviewing it (I usually don't review chains!). A stones throw from the Ritz and the shops of Mayfair, this is a good place to stop for a quick coffee or cup of tea (plenty of seating towards the back of the cafe).

That's about all i have to say! Pret is Pret. You either love it or hate. I must admit, i can't resist the cheese, hamon and bacon croissants!

Check out my review of Pret a Manger - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Queens Inn in Cranbrook

Cranbrook


The Queens Inn is a great pub in Hawkhurst in the weald of Kent and claims to do the best Sunday carvery in Kent. Well, i was lucky enough to sample the carvery on Sunday and i must admit, it was pretty darn good. We were given a choice of Lamb, Turkey, Beef or Pork (the beef was excellent) and you can help yourself to mounds of roast potatoes, cabbage, carrots, stuffing, yorkshire puddings, gravy and much, much more. If you're looking to eat as much as you like, this is the place to come.

Service was friendly, but be warned, this place is very popular on a sunday so you may have to wait a bit for your table. best to phone ahead and book.

Check out my review of Queens Inn - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Byron Hamburgers in London

London


I am very excited about Byron Hamburgers. I'd heard good things from friends about the Kensington and Kingston branches and when i found out they were opening in Soho, i'm pretty sure i punched the air and asked for high fives from my colleagues!

These are seriously good burgers and while this isn't the best burger i have ever had (that title goes to Le Park Meridien Hotel in New York), this is the best burger i've had in London. Forget GBK, Ultimate Burger, Fine Burger Co. and all those other guys. This is the place to come.

So why are these burgers so good then?

- Freshly made burgers every day. If the patties aren't used, they're thrown out.

- Great quality highland beef

- Quality, solid buns that don't fall apart + a good size (there are no stupidly sized GBK tomatoes here)

- They taste really, really good. Nuff said.

What else is good here?

Excellent selection of beer (there's something for everyone - Brooklyn lager, London Pride, Sierra Nevada, Thatcher's Cider, Asahi). Someone has thought long and hard about this beer list which is great.

American treats that you seldom find in London - Cream Soda, Root Beer, Oreo Cookie Shakes, Mac & Cheese)

Service - Ok, ok we were the first ever customers here, but we were well looked after.

Areas to improve?

If i'm being pedantic:

- I wasn't asked how i'd like my burger cooked (but when it came it was perfect and i discovered later that everything is cooked to medium)

- Sauces: The sauces are really good, but don't charge me £1.75 for a thimble of blue cheese dressing. This should be free.

I will be back (probably about once a week).

Check out my review of Byron Hamburgers - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Bangalore Express in London

London


I think Ian Marshall is exactly right. After sampling 16 different wines (which were delicious by the way), I was in no fit state to write a review!

Bangalore Express put on quite an evening for us bloggers and Qypers and i think everyone had a brilliant time. Champagne reception, tasty treats from the chicken (particularly the salmon and the goat curry) and more wine than you could shake a stick at.

Matching Indian food with wine has always been a nightmare for me and i've always defaulted to Kingfisher. After Wednesday night though, i'm ready to start experimenting. Bring on the Pieropan Soave!

Check out my review of Bangalore Express - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Gastro in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - French - Brasseries - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - French - Eating & Drinking - Cafes & Coffee Shops - Cafes


My mind isn't quite made up about Gastro. I had a nice time here, but i can't help but think Gastro is lacking what the French call a certain "i don't know what". That's an Austin Powers reference by the way. Anyway, here are the good and points of this little French restaurant on Venn street:

*Good things about gastro*

Location - Venn street is one of my favourite streets in Clapham. You're opposite the cinema here so it's a great place for a snack or a glass of wine after a movie.

Language - Everyone speaks French! That's right, you will be addressed by your waitress in French first, English second (don't worry, if you don't speak particularly good Francais they will move onto English sooner or later!)

Eggs - Some of the best eggs i have had in a while. I imagine they must buy alot of their produce from the farmers market.

*Not so good things about Gastro*

No Ketchup! - "We are a french restaurant Monsieur. We do not have Ketchup". Well, if i'm eating scrambled eggs, bacon and toast i like to have an option. I don't care if i'm in SW4 or the 8'eme of Paris!

Service - Slow and almost impossible to get the bill when you want it (so i guess they're really going for the authentic Parisian experience!)

Check out my review of Gastro - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Gallery Rendezvous in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Chinese


Not the greatest Chinese restaurant in central London, but it did the job last night. Moments from The Old Coffee House (one of my favourite pubs in London), Gallery Rendezvous (sounds a bit like a strip club doesn't it?) is known for its Pekenise cuisine and Karaoke nights. The food was good and i can definitely recommend the pork dumpling starters and the beef and cashew nuts.

If you're looking for a top notch chinese then you're best off heading into chinatown. But, if it's raining and you just want a quick meal near some good pubs. This is the place.

Check out my review of Gallery Rendezvous - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: White Hart in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


A nice little pub walking distance from both Southwark and Borough Tube stations. I wouldn't go so far as to say this is a "hidden gem", but it certainly does the job. London Pride on tap (i think that was the only ale) and although the pub is narrow and can look deceptively full, we found it relatively easy to find a seat.

Having just read MissRachelle's review, i was disappointed not to see the San Andreas fault running through the pub. The only "epic crack" i saw was that of the Landlord when he bent down to change the pumps.... Ho hum.

Check out my review of White Hart - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Kings Arms in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Thai - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


A gem of a pub moments from Waterloo. Make sure you're armed with Qype Radar/Google Maps on your phone, this pub is pretty darn hard to find!

Plenty of ales on tap and this is the kind of place that serves beer in jugs (which i love!). A good selection of crisps and nuts behind the bar, but unfortunately i was too late to try the Thai food. Some might call the Kings Arms an old man pub, but you'd be surprised how many youngsters are attracted to this place on a Friday night and it was pretty heaving by 9.30pm.

Smokers beware - Staff will usher you to a small alleyway to the rear of the pub for your crafty smoke. I'm not entirely sure why, but those are the rules!

Check out my review of Kings Arms - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Fabric in London

London - Nightlife - Clubs


Fabric is one of those places you either love or you hate. Before going on Friday night i was most definitely a "hater". I'd painted images in my head of tight jeaned floppy haired wallies, pilled off their faces chatting about how we live in a world of systems just waiting to be broken down.

In many ways i was right......

Fabric does attract some disgusting human beings. But to be fair to the club, the vast majority of the crowd on Friday night were friendly, normal and up for a laugh. The atmosphere was good and the music was fantastic (more on this later).

If you can stomach the entry fee (£16), you'll actually be suprised to hear that drinks inside Fabric are reasonably priced (for a club).

Fabric's stock is rising in my eyes though. As mentioned, the music on friday night was awesome. James Yuill's midnight set was phenomenal and by the looks of things, they have acts of equal pedigree playing all the way up to New Year's Eve.

Summary: Great music. Great Location. Cheaper than i expected.... but still quite a few floppy haired wallies.

Check out my review of Fabric - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Italian Graffiti in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Italian & Pizza


Decent pizza in a killer location on Wardour street. The service last night was friendly and quick and my Americana pizza was very good. The wine list here is slightly limited and very chianti heavy, but it's adequate.

This isn't the best pizza place in Soho (try the Soho Pizzeria) but it does the job.

Check out my review of Italian Graffiti - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: The King's Arms in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


A very agreeable little pub with plenty of outdoor seating, but a distinct shortage of real ale on tap! Spitting distance from Tower bridge, friendly staff and excellent food. I wouldn't go so far as to say (like PubLondoner) "this is my favourite pub of all time". But it's certainly very good.

Fix the real ale problem and The King's Arms will be a 5 star pub!

Check out my review of The King's Arms - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Latitude Group in London

London


Latitude are a full service internet marketing agency providing PPC, SEO, analytics, social media, display and affiliate services. I've known Latitude for a at least 5 years now and it's been really interesting following their impressive growth.

Client lists include Tesco, The Independent, Fitness First (the list goes on).

I can personally highly recommend Latitude's paid search services and i've heard great things about the new innovate marketing they are doing around social media.

Check out my review of Latitude Group - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Bistro 1 in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Bistros


Cheap, but the food is nothing to write home about. As the other reviewers have mentioned below, you can get 2 courses here for under £10 which is fantastic value for central London. Unfortunately the food is probably only worth about a tenner. Don't get me wrong, i enjoyed the meal, but i couldn't help thinking as i munched on my sausage pasta - "I could probably make this" (that's a bad thing by the way!).

Service was friendly but patchy and the basement area of this Bistro 1 lacks atmosphere (you're much better off sitting upstairs).

Will I come back? Meh.... I'm not sure. If i'm feeling particularly frugal perhaps, but Soho is so full of cheap eateries that Bistro 1 will be quite low down on the list next time.

Check out my review of Bistro 1 - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Masala Zone Restaurant in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Indian - Eating & Drinking - Fastfood & Takeaway - Indian


There's something not quite right about Masala Zone and i'm struggling to put my finger on it. Don't get me wrong, the curry was delicious. I can highly recommend the Chicken Thali - A combination of rice, butter chicken, bombay vegetables, dahl and naan bread all for £11. The service was also attentive and friendly. All in all i had a really nice time and it's a great spot to soak up the beers guzzled in the pubs of Soho. I think it's the atmospehere and branding that gets my goat. From the outside, Masala Zone looks a fast food joint andthe inside feels like an airport lounge. Completely soulless. Now this standardized approach may appeal to some Brits, but it definitely doesn't appeal to me. There's no weird Indian music, no pictures of Ganesha on the wall and no Kingfisher! I'll say it again, this place has NO soul.

For an authentic Indian experience, avoid this place at all costs. For a relatively cheap, decent Indian meal... i'd give it go.

Check out my review of Masala Zone Restaurant - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: The Old Coffee House in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that this is the best pub in Soho. I know what you're thinking, the Coach and Horses is pretty decent and the The Ship must surely compete, but the Old Coffee House just seems to tick all the right boxes. Here's a few things they do well:

- Free Wifi
- Excellent Pub Grub
- Pork Scatchings
- Friendly staff
- A good selection of real ale
- plenty of seating
- A quiz machine
- No queue at the bar

I could go on for hours, but let's just say these guys completely nail the basics. What would it take for me to move in or ask for job here? A jukebox, a dart board (maybe they have one?) and board games/cards for Sundays. But i'm being pernickety. This place is the shit.

Check out my review of The Old Coffee House - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Yumchaa Teaspace in London

London - Shopping - Food & Drink - Coffee & Tea Shops


An excellent place for tea with a great view over Camden Lock. You can get a pot of tea and a slice of homemade cake for about £3 which in my book is excellent value.

Perhaps more importantly, Yumchaa Tea is host to Balcony TV - an online music show featuring the rising stars of British music. If you're up for a nice chilled evening with decent food and drink and great music, i'd highly recommend heading down here for 7pm on Tuesday nights. Oh yeah, it's free.

Check out my review of Yumchaa Teaspace - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Inamo in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Other Asian - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Japanese & Sushi - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Theme Restaurants


Love it. Inamo is a geeks paradise. The interactive tables mean that you don't really have to speak to the waiters! You can order you food and drinks, change the ambience of the table, view a web cam of the kitchen, order a taxi and even play battleships!

That's not all. The food was superb. I can highly recommend the basic lunch menu (the cinnamon chicken was delicious!).

I'll be back for the Pistachio Cream dessert!

Check out my review of Inamo - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Cafe des Chineurs in Antibes

Antibes


Bit of a tourist trap to be honest and i think you'd be better eating slightly further up the hill towards the market if i'm honest. My chicken breast and homemade mash was pretty bland which is unusual for this part of the world! Phil's steak (pictured above) looked good but i did notice his disappointment when he was served "chips" not "frites"!

The location of the restaurant is spot on and is the reason i'm giving it 3 stars (the food is probably a 2). Plenty of outdoor seating and good for groups, you are right in the heart of Antibes Old town here.

Summary - good for a snack or a quick drink in the sun, but Antibes has so much more to offer...

Check out my review of Cafe des Chineurs - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: The Anchor & Hope in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - International - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


The Anchor & Hope is frequently referred to as one of the best gastropubs in South London. The pub itself is split into 2 sections - casual dining and proper pub. We went last night (Monday) and it was pretty darn busy. I can only imagine how full this place gets at the weekend! After a quick pint of Bombardier in the "proper pub" section we were shown to our table. My brother had the Mutton Curry which he ate with lip smacking gusto, so i can only assume it was excellent. My Cheese and Potato pie was also top notch and the side vegetables were fresh and tasty.

The service throughout was excellent and we felt very well looked after. The waiters have an air of confidence about them and rightly so - They obviously know that the food here is shit hot.

An easy 5 stars and the burning question is..... Do the Anchor & Hope do a Sunday roast? If they do, i will be back at the weekend :)

Check out my review of The Anchor & Hope - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Ristorante Al Brindisi in Venezia

Venezia - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants


Meh, bit of a tourist trap to be honest. The pizza was adequate, but it wasn't what i imagined my first Venice pizza experience to be. In its defence, the Ristorante Al Brindisi has a decent amount of outdoor seating and is located smack bang in the middle of Venice. I left feeling full, partially satisfied but wondering if we'd missed a hidden gem around the corner - there are no shortage of pizza places in Venice after all......

Check out my review of Ristorante Al Brindisi - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Alla Vite Dorata in Venezia

Venezia


What a fantastic place with excellent personal service and great rooms. If you're on a modest budget and you want to stay in the centre of Venice, this is the place. A 5 minute walk to the Rialto bridge and less than 2 minutes to some of the best restaurants in Venice.

But it's the personal touches that make Alla Vite Dorata so special and this is the reason i will most definitely come back!

An easy 5 stars.

Check out my review of Alla Vite Dorata - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Raven hamburg in Hamburg

Hamburg - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - International - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Japanese & Sushi


"The raven, sitting lonely on the placid bust, spoke only, That one word, as if his soul in that one word he did outpour. Nothing further then he uttered - not a feather then he fluttered - Till I scarcely more than muttered `Other friends have flown before - On the morrow he will leave me, as my hopes have flown before.'

Then the bird said, `Nevermore.'"

Ooooh... spooky. One of my favourite poems and i thought i'd include a stanza for shits and giggles. The Raven Restaurant in the North of Hamburg isn't spooky in the slightest, but i must admit i did find myself "weak and weary" after our lengthy meeting in the board room at the rear of the restaurant.

The food was very nice actually. We started with a curry soup and my main course was a white fish (still not entirely sure what it was!). Others had sushi and seemed to enjoy it. Service throughout was attentive without being overly intrusive. The private dining area itself is first rate and very grand indeed.

Did we get our money's worth? Well, you'll have to ask Stephen....

Check out my review of Raven hamburg - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Gare de Lyon in Paris

Paris - Transportation - Public Transport - Stations - Underground Stations


It's a nice station, but it's certainly no Gare du Nord (which i strangely love for some reason!).

Gare de Lyon is one of the "big 6" stations in Parisand is named after Lyon in the south of France (due to the number of trains going to and from this station to Lyon). You can travel from this station to Provence in less than 3 hours which is pretty darn amazing - i did it at the weekend. The interior of the station is nice but it won't take your breath away. I guess Gare de Lyon is most famous for 2 things:

1) Big train crash in 1988 (killed about 50 people)

2) The station feature's heavily in "Mr. Bean's Holiday". So if it's good enough for the beanman, it's good enough for me!

Check out my review of Gare de Lyon - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Novotel Paris Gare de Lyon in Paris

Paris - Hotels & Holidays - Hotels


The Novotel next to the Gare de Lyon is kind of what you would expect. Standardized/clean rooms, efficient staff... everything you'd expect from an Ibis, Hilton, Holiday Inn etc. This is most certainly NOT a romantic getaway hotel and i'd only really recommend this place to business people, commuters or people with a short stop over in Paris (like me at the weekend!).

Decent, clean and 130 euros per night - It basically does what it says on the tin.

Check out my review of Novotel Paris Gare de Lyon - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Ostaria Antico Dolo in Venise

Venise - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Italian & Pizza


This place is an absolute cracker and amazingly doesn't attract huge numbers of tourists (which is obviously rare in Venice!). I love walking into a place and asking for a glass of wine and the owner turning around and saying "Well, let me take you through some of my favourites and let's see if we can find something suitable". Perfect. The guys at Ostario Antico Dolo take their time and help you enjoy the wine you are drinking (they are generous with the pouring too!). The cheese is superb and the atmosphere typically venetian.

I think this is my favourite bar in Venice.

Check out my review of Ostaria Antico Dolo - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: A la vecia cavana in Venedig

Venedig - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Seafood


I have to disagree with Phil (below) on this one. While the setting was excellent and the service sharp, this wasn't a 5 star meal for me. My caprese starter was good but the mozarella wasn't fresh and while the steak was very tender the sauce and the piece of meat lacked huge amounts of flavour.

3.5 stars out 5.

Check out my review of A la vecia cavana - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Le Rubis in Nice

Nice - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - French - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Wine Bars - Eating & Drinking - Restaurants - Gourmet


Le Rubis is without question one of the best restaurants in Nice. The staff are exceptionally good and were kind enough to keep the restaurant open for us until past midnight. Outdoor seating is available and the atmosphere is laid back and friendly. But it's the food that will make me come back time and time again the Le Rubis. The fillet steak was in my top 10 steaks of all time (and i've eaten alot of steak) and the fresh asparagus starter would have held its own in any michelin star restaurant.

If you like a decent meal and you're willing to pay about 50 euros per head (including wine), this is the place.

Check out my review of Le Rubis - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Strandbad der Gemeinde, Pörtschach am Wörther See in Pörtschach am Wörther See

Poertschach am Woerther See - Sport - Swimming


We stopped here on our way from Vienna to Venice and it made for the perfect break spot. Plenty of cafes and small shops and a great spot for a swim! The water is about 22'c (in October) and the swimming area has a jetty and a diving board! Lots of water sports in the summer months but don't expect much in the Autumn months (it's also worth noting that jet skiing is illegal on Austrian lakes!)

Picturesque and very relaxing - i'd highly recommend stopping of at Wörther See.

Check out my review of Strandbad der Gemeinde, Pörtschach am Wörther See - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Charlie P's in Wien

Wien - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


A hop, skip and a jump from the university you'll find Charlie P's Irish pub. Charlie P's is what you'd expect from an Irish pub in any European city really. Guiness and Murphy's on draft, friendly bar staff and lots of trinkets on the walls. They do a pub quiz here on Monday nights and from what i could tell the prize was 1000 euros! (Can that be right?)

Anyway, this is a big student hang out and a decent place to start your night if you are going out in Vienna.

Check out my review of Charlie P's - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Café Landtmann in Wien

Wien - Eating & Drinking - Cafes & Coffee Shops - Cafes


A posh cafe opposite the university that attracts the rich and suited of Vienna. You're not going to find any students in here! Excellent outdoor seating and attentive service. I can highly recommend the set breakfast - 2 soft boiled eggs, toast, fresh OJ and tea for 11 euros. The eggs were cooked perfectly the meal was an excellent hangover cure!

Check out my review of Café Landtmann - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Chelsea in Wien

Wien - Nightlife - Clubs - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Bars - Nightlife - Music Venues


A decent bar/pub with plenty of young people and students. I'm told, this is also a great place to watch live music (there was a band touring from the UK playing the night we were there) and they stay open until 4am on Monday which is always handy! Outdoor seating, cheap beer, friendly bar staff and a funky neighborhood. You can't go wrong with this place.

Check out my review of Chelsea - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Kehlsteinhaus (The Eagle's Nest) in Berchtesgaden

Berchtesgaden - Arts & Entertainment - Day Trips


If you're in the Salzburg area, you'd be silly not to visit the Eagle's Nest. Also known as Kehlsteinhaus, the Eagle's nest is a chalet style building built by the Nazi's and given to Hitler for his 50th birthday. The walk up will take you about 3 hours (but you can also take a bus which is a 20 minute ride) and the scenery is phenomenal. We took the bus up and walked down (be careful, signage is pretty poor - we got lost and it ended up taking some time to get back to the car park!). The final passage up to the nest is truly awesome - a 140m brass lift which goes straight up through the mountain.

I must admit, the Kehlsteinhaus itself was slightly disappointing. I expected a lot more information and history - Who built it? Why was it built? Was this really Hitler's secret hideout or did he only visit this place 8-10 times? What happened once the Allied forces captured the place? Not even a morsel of this information was available. It's basically a chalet style beer garden. In the end, we managed to corner an independent English speaking guide who gave us a bit more insight. It's definitely worth checking out the huge fireplace next to the dining area (apparently a gift from Mussolini). He also mentioned that the Kehlsteinhaus is on the same mountain as the Berghof (Hitler's home for much of the WWII). We went looking for it, but couldn't find.

I guess (understandably) there are just some things the German Tourist Board don't want to shout about, so my recommendation to inquisitive travelers like myself or historians would be to research heavily before you set off up the mountain.

Check out my review of Kehlsteinhaus (The Eagle's Nest) - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: SIXT Autovermietung in München

Muenchen - Transportation - Cars & Bikes - Car Hire


This was my first experience using Sixt and I have to say it was very good. The selection of cars on the website was infinitely better than Hertz, Alamo, Avis et al. and the prices seemed more competitive too. The
Staff at the Munich city centre branch were friendly and helpful and were flexible with pick up times. They didn't have the car we wanted in stock but were happy to give us a significant upgrade for free (BMW X5! Woo Hoo!).

Check out my review of SIXT Autovermietung - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: The Lamb and Flag in Oxford

Oxford - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


A cracking pub (i can't believe i have never reviewed it!). The Lamb & Flag nestles into St. Giles and if you don't look hard enough you could easily miss it.

Good points:

Plenty of Real Ale - I saw Spitfire, Lamb & Flag Summer Ale, Proper Job, Old Peculier among other on Saturday night.

Traditional Pub Grub - Great food and affordable for students.

Location - Just on the outskirts of the CBD so not as many tourists as you'd think! The L & F is popular with Students, Locals and Ale lovers.

Charity - The Lamb and Flag (as Brighters mentions below) is a not-for-profit pub and amazingly fund a handful of PHD's every year.

Bad points:

Hard to say really... This isn't "the perfect pub" but it's darn close. An easy 5 stars.

Check out my review of The Lamb and Flag - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: YHA Oxford in Oxford

Oxford - Hotels & Holidays - Hostels


Clean, cheap and cheerful. The YHA in Oxford is located right next to the train station so it's perfect if you are coming in on public transport from another UK city. The hostel is popular with backpackers, sports groups and families as you are less than a 5 minute walk from Oxford's historical core.

The hostel has a total of 187 beds (mostly 6-10 man dorms) and boasts free internet, a library, a TV lounge, bike racks, a restaurant and a nice garden out the back.

You're looking at £18-21 per night which is decent given how clean and well run this hostel is. The free fry up in the morning is great (because it's free), but don't expect Gordon Ramsay quality sausages :)

Check out my review of YHA Oxford - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Queen of Hoxton in London

London - Nightlife - Clubs - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars


Last night was my first visit to the Hoxton Pony (Moo 3rd birthday party). It's a fun little place with helpful staff and an enormous roof terrace. Drinks are standard shoreditch prices and you can expect to pay £3.50-£4.00 for a pint of beer. Excellent cocktail menu and i'm also told the food is good.

Now about that roof terrace.... it's enormous, but you feel like the Hoxton Pony could do SO much more with it. There is little to no lighting. No music and only a make shift bar. Tables are few and far between and the decor feels extremely budget. A bit of thought and an investment of a few grand could turn this terrace into something really special. Because of this, it's just a 3 star place for me for now.

Check out my review of Queen of Hoxton - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: hoxton pony in London

London - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Bars


Last night was my first visit to the Hoxton Pony (Moo 3rd birthday party). It's a fun little place with helpful staff and an enormous roof terrace. Drinks are standard shoreditch prices and you can expect to pay £3.50-£4.00 for a pint of beer. Excellent cocktail menu and i'm also told the food is good.

Now about that roof terrace.... it's enormous, but you feel like the Hoxton Pony could do SO much more with it. There is little to no lighting. No music and only a make shift bar. Tables are few and far between and the decor feels extremely budget. A bit of thought and an investment of a few grand could turn this terrace into something really special. Because of this, it's just a 3 star place for me for now.

Check out my review of hoxton pony - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: Fynn Valley Golf Centre in Witnesham

Witnesham - Sport - Golf


A decent course about 4-5 miles outside of Ipswich city centre. A nice blend of Par 3's, 4's and 5's with well kept greens and Suffolk coutryside surrounding you on pretty much every hole.

Good points:

- Decent twilight rates. £18 during the week and £22 at the weekend. Twilight begins at 1pm.

- Nice driving range right next to the course.


Bad points:

- Pretty dodgy pro shop service. That had a tournament on yesterday morning, but still, the chap that helped us up by the main course wasn't particularly helpful. It was almost like we were doing him a favour parting with our hard earned cash to play on the course.

- Pylons. Lots of them. Miraculously 2 of our group managed to hit pylon wiring on the course! Ugly things...

Check out my review of Fynn Valley Golf Centre - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: The Wimbledon Park Golf Club in London

London - Sport - Golf


I'm a pretty big fan of Wimbledon Park Golf Club. It beats the pants of the Wandsworth Golf Club (9 Holes) and is a fraction better than Richmond Park Golf Club (although you don't get deer wandering across the course like you do at Richmond!)

The course nestles between the LTA and Wimbledon Park and is used during June for Wimbledon queuers! It's a challenging course and the 12th hole is by far the most beautiful on the course - panoramic views of south west London. A round will set you back about £30 and the course is open to visitors all year round. This is by no means a PGA standard course, but it's certainly one of the best and most affordable inside the M25

Check out my review of The Wimbledon Park Golf Club - I am ahunter - on Qype

Qype: The Queens Head in Weybridge

Weybridge - Eating & Drinking - Pubs & Bars - Pubs


Pleasant, plenty of outdoor seating and one of the biggest cheeseburgers west of London. The staff were super friendly and the location (although not ads idyllic as the Old Crown up the road) is still very nice indeed. This is also a great pub for live sport - I caught 20 minutes of the cricket yesterday on one of the enormous plasma TV's in the area with comfy leather seats.

A few vital stats on that cheeseburger - 1 lb. of scottish beef topped with bacon, a slab of brie cheese and rocket. All this accompanied by a mound of chips that could easily have fed a family of 5. I managed about half of the meal (but it was delicious!)

Oh, i'm told l'auberge next door is excellent. Next time!

Check out my review of The Queens Head - I am ahunter - on Qype