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Restaurant: Modern European
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With its prime Piccadilly Circus location, Criterion is the restaurant of choice for tourists, theatre-goers, hen parties and those who just fancy a bit of escapist glamour. Step inside, and the garish fluorescent lights and rowdy teens congregating around Eros are quickly forgotten, replaced by plush curtains, cushioned banquettes and above all, a glittering, golden mosaic ceiling.
When booking the pre-theatre menu, we were delighted by the considerate receptionist, who took notes to ensure we would have enough time to eat before curtain call; staff on the floor, however, left much to be desired. Service skated between condescending and cheerful, depending on whose attention we managed to catch; dishes came out quickly, but, once finished, lingered far too long on the table.
Enthusiastic salting marred both beef carpaccio (otherwise decent), and chunky ham hock terrine, but things improved with a main of light, satisfying Cornish mackerel, served with crisp rocket and fennel and juicy, peeled cherry tomatoes. Desserts are a highlight, with cherry and frangipane making an impression; they could lose the chewing gum-flavoured mint and yoghurt sorbet, however. The kitchen has potential - some of the main menu offerings were real beauties - but service has some catching up to do.
Special offers
2 courses and a glass of prosecco: £20
...from a set menu (3 courses £25). Includes Vat, excludes service. Please note that bookings at 7pm need to place orders by 7:15pm.
Offer available Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 12:00-14:30, 17:30-19:00 and 22:00-23:30, Friday, Saturday 12:00-14:30 and 19:00-23:30
Offer covers Min 1, Max 6 people
Offer valid until Mar 4 2012
Please book this offer through the booking panel below.
Book now
Criterion details
Follow Criterion to receive updates on special offers here.
What is 'following'?020 7930 0488
Lunch served noon-2.30pm, dinner served 5.30-11.30pm Mon-Sat
Main courses £12.50-£28.50. Set meal (lunch, 5.30-7pm, 10-11.30pm) £18 2 courses, £22 3 courses
Credit cards AmEx, MC, V
Facilities
Babies and children admitted, Booking advisable, Separate room for parties ( seats 70 ), Dress ( smart casual )Criterion map
Restaurants & cafés near Criterion
See all restaurants near CriterionComments & ratings 4/5 (Average of 1 rating)
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