House – South Bank and Waterloo

This is in the space that used to be the Mezzanine. If you ever went there, you will find this new incarnation is pitched at pretty much the exact same level and atmosphere. Not a criticism per se, after all this is a space fulfilling a function, to give a reasonable high end meal to the better heeled of the National's clientele. So, does it meet the brief? There were some imaginative touches- green apple and sorrel juice as an aperitif. Fritto misto with bagna cauda was also a good idea, undermined by the absence of crispness of the fritto- what had they been doing to it. Service a bit hit and miss, and it was not crowded. Both me and my partner in dining had slightly disturbed tummies the next day. My partner would be kinder than me on food, atmosphere and service, but I say: could try a little bit harder.