FLAME - Posh Kebab Anyone?

You rarely go to a kebab joint during daytime. It is usually a secluded place visited only on those wild drunk nights where alcoholic bloodstream shout for sugary or fatty food for some sort. In the dark or dim light you probably do not notice the old, greasy decor... But Flame takes you in the opposite direction if what your "kebab joint" expectations may be. It gives you a polished, minimalist approach to it, which you can see straight away from its simple, modern kitchen design the moment you set your foot through the door. Everyone did not expect to find it tidy and clean, with kitchen staff also in uniform.

Kebab, shish and shawarma tend to be ordered as take-away food but we had to abide to our rules and opted for eating in at the back of the restaurant. There was not enough room and we had to find a modest layout for table and chairs to fit eight people and at the same without blocking the entrance to the toilets. On the contrary, the main room at the entrance is spacious and bright, with its long kitchen counter you stand in front of. First lesson: this place is better for take-away!

Having come to terms with the fact that this is more of a snack point than a restaurant, we went to the till to order our choice from the menu. Our selection was a great mix, from mix shawarma to falafel wrap, from chicken shish to lamb shawarma, from chicken samosa to halloumi cheese. In the mix we even tried the special boxes where you get a nice combination of meat, salad, bread and rice or chips. Good portions and great options to choose from for lunch, although you may find a wrap better value for money compared to the Special Flame Box or other special boxes which seem expensive. Starters were ok although on their own they look too simple and it is best to have them as side dish. Taste was great as we all enjoyed munching through this amazing Middle Eastern "fast food". Pickled salad was perhaps a little bit too much on the plates but we could still hear the "mmmmmmm" sound echoing throughout the cold walls of the premises. Second lesson: this place is perfect for a quick but tasty snack!

Flame wins in terms of food to offer but let us remind you it is not a formal seated restaurant. It probably works at its best if you get food on the go or if you casually hang out with friends at your lunch break or after a crazy night out!

Our verdict is as follows:

Quality of Food        3.67
Hygiene                     4.00
Value for Money      4.00
Speed of Service       4.00
Quality of Service    3.50
Ambience & décor   2.67

Flame gets an overall rating of 74.3%