Mumsnet Talk

DH and I are planning a weekend in London to celebrate our 10 year anniversary (child free!). We want a special meal out but I am totally overwhelmed by the choice and feel as though I've spent days reading reviews, without making much progress.

We are prepared to spend a fair bit, but not stratospheric prices. It needs to feel like a treat but not be too formal/posh. One of us is veggie and one is not, so somewhere veggie-friendly would be good. We are staying in Islington, but prepared to travel anywhere reasonably central.

Any recommendations please?

I wondered about the Oxo Tower, but fearful it might be a bit pretentious. I also like the sound of Clos Maggiore especially as it sounds veggie-friendly. Does anyone have any experience of these places?

Moro in Clerkenwell is lovely - lots of really nice veggie friendly options

Do you like carribean food?

Mango Rooms or Cottons in Camden Town

I like Pescatori...one in Dover Street, not far from green Park, is the one I have been too...they have another in not eyewateringly pricey and not terribly chichi afaik, but the staff are always lovely, helpful and seem to care about you.

we have been with the children, (well they are teens) and always been well received.

menu is usually short and seasonal.

If you are in islington then I'd recommend Morgan M (they do a veggie tasting menu alongside a "normal" one) - sort of high-end French, a bit stuffy but very good. Also look at Fredericks, Trulllo or Almeida. Ottelenghi is perfect for vegetarians but not that formal so not sure I'd recommend it for a "special" meal, perfect for lunch though.

and obviously only suits if you have a fish eating veggie....should have asked that first I suppose! :D

Manna in Primrose hill is lovely, fully vegetarian.

I would second Mango rooms.

<BTW crazynanna- how did your interview go?>

Tethers

Went ok I think...was 10 of us for 2 posts so being 50/50 about it.

Should find out tomorrow one way or the other.

Let you know x

yy, PM me if you don't see me on a thread... fingers crossed

Thanks for the suggestions - will have a look!

We are definitely planning a lunch (and perhaps a breakfast!) at Ottelenghi's

Clos Maggiore feels really special, and the food is really reasonable - try toptable for offers. The wine is expensive though, so may be worth a lunch or early evening menu that includes wine. It came top in the Harden's list for romantic setting this year. But it's not excruciating!

I second Moro - beautiful food, great atmosphere (quite relaxed but still special).

I lived in Islington for a long time and our favourite restaurant was metrogusto. But it's been three years since I was there. Moro would also be a great choice.

If you don't mind a train trip you can't beat Chez Bruce on Wandsworth Common (15m from Victoria)