Restaurants

Located in the cool crypt of St Mary-le-Bow, the Place consists of a canteen-like serving area and a larger, more obviously church-like space. A newspaper-strewn communal table set with a white linen tablecloth is surrounded by individual tables with solid pews for seats. Slightly upmarket versions of vegetarian classics are the order of the day. Quiches are made with crumbly shortcrust and filled with the likes of sweet potato surrounded by rich but not stodgy egginess. A substantial salad of minted new potatoes and asparagus gave us spring on a plate. Some dishes, like a coconut and cauliflower soup, were underseasoned (we spotted several customers shaking salt cellars). A different hot meal (thai green curry, moroccan casserole) is served each day, alongside salads, sandwiches, puddings and a lip-smackingly sweet and sour own-made lemonade. The clientele is largely made up of Cityworkers from nearby offices, plus a few tourists whove had a lucky find after sightseeing around St Pauls. The Place is only open weekdays until early afternoon and makes a lovely retreat from the rat race going on above ground.

Time Out Eating & Drinking Guide 2008