Lao di fang - 老地方

They don't take reservations from Europeans, they don't appear to have a website, but My Old Place (lao di fang) serves some of the most authentic Chinese food you'll find in London. At the end of my introductory Chinese course, all us students went with our tutor to this fantastic place. There is an English version of the menu, but the Chinese one looks more comprehensive. Just try stuff is my advice. Reviews here and here. And if you had asked me to read that Chinese three months ago, I wouldn't have believed I'd ever be able to do it. I start the next level in a couple of weeks.

Who you gonna call? Vampire-Busters!!!

I was going to use this picture for October the 31st, when you might have forgiven the quality of the picture when balanced against the potential vampire protection. But what with me being away and all, it didn't work out. But I couldn't ignore it.

This must qualify as one of London's craziest bar & restaurants, with more than a touch of "Fin de Siecle" about it. Garlic with everything. Garlic beer. Garlic shots. Garlic ice cream. They boast of having 101 garlic flavoured shots. I've never been bored enough with life to visit it, the reviews here are varied, to say the least. Their website is here and their menu here. Anyone goes, do let me know.

Before anyone accuses me of being anti-garlic, one of my favourite dishes of all time is a plate of good pasta, with half a dozen or more raw garlic cloves chopped in it, some nice parmigiana, loads of black pepper, and a glass of good red wine to accompany. Can only cook it when I'm on my own, though, and think I will remain that way for a day or so. Not the most social dish.

Interactive Food

I was quite taken by the interactive menu outside this restaurant, Busaba Eathai in Store Street. It looked interesting and reasonably priced - a Thai fusion restaurant with a no booking canteen style setup - rather like Wagamama. However, having browsed some reviews, I'm no longer sure I'll be visiting.

Can I Have Some Moor, Please?

I love the fusion of cultures that thrives in London. This colourful water basin sits outside the restaurant el Cantara in Frith Street. I've not tried it,but from the look of the menu, I may well give it a try.

Looking for Lunch?

I don't know about you, but I'm always on the lookout for new ideas for lunch. So I was rather pleased to find this in Southampton Row - Hummus Bros, a wholesome and entertaining change. Check out their "how it works" directions ont he website.


I am on holiday for the next week, daily photos continue but you won't get much response from me.