Time Out rating:
<strong>Rating: </strong>4/5
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<strong>Rating: </strong>4/5
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Time Out says
Wed Jun 13 2012
The capital’s Hellenic chain restaurants could take a lesson or two from the smart, contemporary decor to be found here. Floor-to-ceiling, swagged red curtains drape against stucco pillars, and a metallic graphic of a carob tree peps up a neutrally coloured dining area that’s all taupes, creams and beech window frames.
And in contrast to its multi-outlet rivals, Carob Tree has a menu containing several own-made treats. The sesame-seed studded falafel were so fragrant with lemon juice that it was almost a shame to use the accompanying tahini dip; and a portion of grilled Dutch calf’s liver was juicy and succulent.
On the other hand, a starter of pastourma (Cypriot beef sausage) was less impressive, leaning towards the wrong side of well done, and a grilled monkfish shashlik kebab lacked flavour. Towards the end of the evening, a chorus of ‘happy birthday’ blared from the speakers and the staff urged diners to serenade the celebrating punter.
Throughout, service was impressively friendly, staff urging us to ‘take our time’ despite a dining room that was nearly full of local families chattering away in Greek. A corked glass of wine was replaced efficiently and apologetically.
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