Let's grab a bite to eat!

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Reviews of cafes serving quick lunchtime food

The Dining Room, West Ealing

If you've visited the Ealing Farmers' Market in Leeland Road, near Barclays bank, you may have spotted this tiny cheerful cafe, with its next-door other half which sells takeaway sandwiches. They cater for the daytime trade, serving a reasonable range of sandwiches, homemade soup, ciabattas and bought-in cakes. Going down particularly well on a week-day lunchtime were the traditional English breakfasts, which were well presented and not overflowing with grease. The person serving was pleasant, friendly and efficient, even though he was under pressure while short-staffed. A straight-forward ciabatta with no frills was £2.80 and a proper cappuccino a reasonable £1.40.

When we say tiny, there are around 5 little round tables for 2, and you sit cosily close to your neighbours. I was well entertained during my visit: on one side were a professional couple brewing up a domestic argument in such quiet voices that frustratingly it was only possible to catch half of it, and on the other side an elderly lady joined a young stranger and they struck up conversation. For a quick lunch, it does the job admirably.

Oscars - St Mary's Road, South Ealing

Oscars is bang opposite Thames Valley University, and attracts students and lecturers of a variety of ages along with the odd passing worker. It too serves a variety of made-to-order panini, sandwiches and lunchtime snacks. The carrot cake was moist and tasty, the helpings plentiful and the coffee was fine. The server was quietly helpful. The warm oranges and chrome effect tables and flooring are modern, though getting a little battered around the edges. It can't seat many, though four could get around the spread-out tables at a pinch. A filling bagel, cappuccino and cake cost under £6. Worth popping in if you're nearby.

 

November 17, 2005