Joanna's

Brasseries

Restaurants

56 Westow Hill

Mid-range

Joanna's

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Time Out says

Tue Sep 25 2012

The navy sign and dark wood-panelled interior makes this restaurant almost invisible among a cluster of local high street shops at night, though it’s been in situ since 1978. Family-run Joanna’s takes its name from cockney rhyming slang – the old Joanna/piano was in frequent use in its heyday as a US-style restaurant. Thirty-something years later, American influences remain in the decor, particularly in the private booth that seats up to five. The menu, however, is that of a Modern European brasserie. Quality was variable: a starter of beetroot ‘carpaccio’ with goat’s cheese fritters was bland and uninspiring. Juicy roast chicken breast with braised lettuce, beans and greens was note perfect, but polenta cake with halloumi and an under-seasoned ratatouille lacked punch. For a taste of the restaurant’s American-grill days, opt for a juicy burger or one of the reliable steaks. A short global wine list is partnered by ten or so cocktails. The restaurant was relatively quiet on a Sunday evening, and service was gracious and attentive. A bit hit and miss, then, but hopefully it was just a blip from this well-loved restaurant.

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Address:
Joanna's 56 Westow Hill
London
SE19 1RX

Phone:
020 8670 4052
Website:
www.joannas.uk.com
Opening hours:
Breakfast served 10am-noon daily. Meals served noon-11pm Mon-Sat; noon-10.30pm Sun
Transport:
Tube: Crystal Palace or Gipsy Hill rail
Price:
Main courses £11.75-£32.50. Set meal (lunch Mon-Sat; dinner Mon-Wed) £12.95 2 courses, £16.95 3 courses
Map
1. Joanna's
  - 56 Westow Hill
    London
    SE19 1RX
  - 020 8670 4052
  - www.joannas.uk.com
  - 51.419589,-0.081360

Categories:
Food and drink
Facilities:
Eating and drinking facilities. Restaurant and bar facilities. Reservations required. Brunch. Lunch. Sunday lunch. Outdoor facilities. Tables outdoors
Occasions:
Meal times. Best for Sunday lunch. Eating out

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Comments & ratings

(4 ratings)

Superb waiters superb ambience superb attention to detail. Always a delight.

jack Sat Jul 14 2012
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Went there for our anniversary last week.Top quality main meals,especially the deserts and wine. The service was excellent.

Miro Wed Jul 11 2012
Rated as: 5/5
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I have always had excellent meals at Joannas and found the service great. The cocktails are awesome and the staff brilliantly accommodating. Can't say enough good things about it!

Emily Sun Jun 17 2012
Rated as: 5/5
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Was passing from an appointment !!! So went I'n for a glass of something !!! I't was sooooooo welcoming !!! I treated myself to a glass of pink champagne !!! And another !! This place Devine !!! Even stayed for dinner !!! Was not planned !! Anyone going soon before. ( they told me new menu soon) have the belly of pork ! Apple sauce with a touch of ginger !!! Best I've ever had !!! And let me tell you I've never written a review I'n my life !! Excellent place --- will be back but will book if it's anytime after 7-30 as it gets real busy !!! Loved my time at Joannas xxxx

Ladywills Thu Oct 20 2011
Rated as: 5/5
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As a Brixtonite, there are a lack of quality restaurants outside the Village so myself and my partner eat at Joanna's frequently Terrific food and the informal atmosphere - it's nearly always busy without being uncomfortable - I enjoyed the review and had the beetroot carpaccio last time I went, very tasty indeed. Looking forward to my next visit.

Matt Thu Oct 13 2011
Rated as: 4/5
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I have only had positive experiences at Joanna's, the best restaurant in the area and many friends of mine eat here regularly and love the cosy atmosphere, friendly staff and excellent food. Going on Sunday and looking forward to it!

Mike Thu Oct 13 2011
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Was highly disappointed- whilst the food was of a good standard, the service was dreadful. On a Saturday afternoon with the restaurant 1/3 full, we did not expect to be waiting 20 minutes for a starter, then another 30 minutes afterwards for the main course! When we challenged this, we was accused of lying and that "actually it has been 20 minutes since your starter". We eat out a fair bit, bot in and outside of London, and have never been so appalled at both the wait, but being accused of lying. We found being questioned by staff was highly inappropriate and unthoughtful. I do not understand why such a high rating has been given to this place - this was massive disappointment. In general, the service (when we were actually served) was inattentive and over "pushy". The atmosphere felt dis-jointed, and the music incredibly loud for a quiet Saturday afternoon. The food was good, but no where near good enough to make up for the poor service and had left a bitter taste.

Neil Gilbride Sat Jul 17 2010
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Joanna's

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2 for 1 on main courses

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