Smiths of Smithfield

Off to test our first “local” since we moved into the area. We pretty much chose this as one of the only places that is opened on a weekend.

Food

The drinks selection sounded really interesting, and we ordered the Monkey Business - Apple, Banana, Peanut Butter & Vanilla Ice Cream (4½ pounds), pretty much because of the peanut butter. As expected, this was pretty much like a meal in itself. It was freshly made, and apart from being very sweet, it was a very nice drink. To balance out all that sugar, we ordered some vegetarian food for balance.

We had the Roasted Vegetables, Chickpea & Couscous Salad (5 pounds), fresh, but as is the problems with vegetarian salads, doesn’t pack much in terms of taste. The Smith’s Veggie Bean Burger, Cucumber salad & Sweet Chilli Sauce (5½ pounds) suffered from the same problem, although the sweet chilli sauce definitely helped.

Rating - 6

Atmosphere

This place was very very busy at 3pm on a Saturday. We were here for lunch, and managed to snag a table at the back of the vast warehouse dining space. The whole place has that “cool” vibe going on. A huge open space, still retaining the industrial look. Wooden tables, red chairs, comfy couches, huge open bar, well dressed people. They write their prices in words on the menu instead of numbers and symbols…yes, it’s that kind of place. As usual, we felt we didn’t really belong. There are 3 levels, each with a different vibe, but for lunch, only the ground level canteen style operation was running.

Rating - 2.5

Service

They were pretty busy too, but we got served in good time, and they were good enough for such a casual setting. The fact that all the waiters looked hot and were young no doubt helps.

Rating - 3

C-factor

Average for Farringdon area. Food is up to scratch, and is a nice place to visit for some lunch.

Rating - 1

Brownie Points - 12.5

Info

67-77 Charterhouse Street
London
EC1M 6HJ
Phone +44 (0) 20 7251 7950
Website