THE SCENE A few minutes walk from the riverside, this restaurant, which has a Chiswick sibling, claims to “love good food, generous portions and taking care of people” and prides itself on its homely decor, candelit ambiance and flower-filled beauty. Pink cushions, thick-rimmed mirrors and cherub ornamentation are predominant, with a secret, canopied garden at the back for al fresco dining (blankets are even provided for the cooler evenings of the British ‘summer’).
THE GRUB: Brunch, lunch and dinner are catered for, with a two-course fixed-priced lunch menu on offer, too. We opt to go ‘off piste’, though, and for starters sample the spicy squid with wasabi mayo – the spice a subtle, rather than domineering, taste; and salt and pepper prawns with garlic aioli – the plate arriving loaded with a most generous number of delicious large prawns that affirms the aforementioned portion claim. The fish pie, back on the menu for spring, comes loaded with tuna, prawns and cod, and is a warming, filling dish. The slow-roasted pork belly, however, served with savoy cabbage, bacon, apple and rosemary compote and crackling, is the winner – a towering, tender, gravy-laced delight.
BEHIND THE BAR: Wines take prominence – the house red makes for a fruity accompaniment to your culinary excursion – and range from from the affordable to the indulgent. There is also an array of cocktails, beers and spirits on the menu, with a weekday happy hour for those looking for an enjoyable post-work, mid-week tipple.
BILL PLEASE: Starters from £7.95; mains from £13.95; wine from £4.25 a glass; cocktails from £7.50.
THE VERDICT: The food, portions and service claims are most definitely backed up by an impressive menu, top smiley service and a welcoming, homely atmosphere that makes Annie’s a place to relax, indulge and enjoy.
36-38 White Hart Lane, SW13 0PZ
Tube | Barnes Bridge | anniesrestaurant.co.uk
