Cantina Vinopolis

The Brasserie
Cantina Vinopolis
No.1 Bank End
London SE1 9BU
Tel: +44 (0) 171 940 8333
Fax: +44 (0) 171 940 8334

Tuesday 19th September 2000 

After a particularly tedious business meeting, my colleague and I decided to try Vinopolis - it was, after all, just a stone's throw from the office.

As we hadn't booked a table, the staff seemed to think there would be a problem - would we mind sitting in the smoking section? There wouldn't be any smokers there? We agreed, but were disconcerted to notice that throughout the meal, there was ample space all around - anyway...

No house Red - perhaps understandable at "Vinopolis"? so we settled on the bottom of the line Grenache at £10.50 - this was actually quite good. A bottle of Still water accompanied the wine.

Starters of Pumpkin and Parmesan Soup with Lime creme fraiche for Peter and Chrargrilled Asparagus with Artichoke Hearts, rocket and Lemon Mayonnaise for me were very good.

We both selected the Wild Mushroom Tagliatelle, and were both pleased with the dish - nicely flavoured, just the right texture. The waiter was perhaps a little to enthusiastic in keeping our glasses full - I personally think that, having poured the first glass, the diners should be able to manage themselves - the breaks in conversation were noticeable.

Nevertheless, the meal was a pleasant experience, and fair value for money given the location.

Had I had more time, I would have been a little more ambitious with the choice of meal - the menu was quite enticing, with dishes such as Rump of Lamb with Polenta Cake, spinach and girolle jus, or Confit Duck leg on a salad of lardons and croutons, with new potatoes.

Roast Cod, and Seared Blue Fin Tuna also featured.

Including Service and Drinks: £48.21

Recommended

Sandro

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