Manna

Time Out says

Wed Oct 17 2012

Even on weekday nights this relaxed yet rather formal restaurant has several tables reserved by off-duty Primrose Hill: friends catching up, yoga bunnies sharing boyfriend woes, romantic dates and birthday get-togethers. Few customers are confirmed vegetarians, which is tribute to the quality and heartiness of the cooking. Portions are large, and help compensate for steep pricing – expect to pay £15 for a main course, £8 for dessert.

Dishes range from veggie caff staples to creative concoctions such as a delicious special of tempeh-filled cabbage rolls with Thai-style dipping sauce. A popular option is to choose four items from the mezes and sides to make your own main course; the flexible menu also offers a pasta, risotto and soup of the day. Burrito of white beans was distinguished with tangy smooth tomatillo and chunky pineapple salsas.

Good malbec, from the entirely organic wine list, made a satisfying match. Dessert disappointed: it sounded like a tahina-flavoured pot of chocolate and arrived as an unattractive, over-rich pot of chocolate-flavoured tahina cream.

Service is friendly, unobtrusive and proper, which suits the casual elegance of the glittery flora-themed room. The skinny front conservatory is prime target on grey days.