It’s still suffering slightly from poor organisation and often indifferent service while the new restaurant gets up to speed, but don't let that stop you from enjoying the fantastic quality food and brilliant riverside atmosphere in the rapidly rejuvenating South Bank. It's really very comfortable and quite spacious, although the demand for seats regularly outstrips the available spaces. Booking on a weekend is essential to avoid a huge wait or disappointment.
Jerk-spiced chicken skewers and crisp-fried tiger prawns set the scene, each accompanied by brilliant sauces, and the former in particular is surprisingly tender. The Thai green chicken and squash curry was presented a bit too soup-like for my liking, but the flavours were lovely. The lamb burger was easily an equal to any other burger in London, but wait for the desserts! White chocolate and Toblerone cheesecake anyone? The Hawaiian tropical fruit sundae's photo just speaks for itself, as I'm sure you'll agree. The wine list just caps the whole thing off.
It'll be much better than it is now. It's a bit too pricey, but it fills a niche long needed on the South Bank, and if you go off-peak, you'll sneak in a lovely little surprise. The staff is just stressed, but for the most part, it'll all settle down.