The Loop Guide to Clubbing, Drinking, plus West Essex and East London living.

Over the years there have been many attempts to introduce different types of ‘authentic’ restaurants to this area, some have failed and some have gone on to be one of the landmark eating establishments within our golden triangle. The Grapevine has the ability to be one of those significant eateries and one of the few that has the standard to guarantee its longevity in West Essex.

It was refreshing for me to go to a restaurant other than the Bel Sit where the staff were equally as friendly. One of the beauties of the Bel Sit (and what makes it so popular) is that they make everyone every customer feel equally as important and although after all these years and numerous visits you are wise to the fact that they do it to everyone, you still feel like a special customer. The Grape Vine has the same way about it but because of its décor, layout & of course food it made for a much more sophisticated dining experience. They didn’t ship you in & ship you out, it was a lot more relaxed and laid back. The staff were lovely and extremely efficient, they constantly had their eye on what stage you were at throughout your meal but not in an intrusive way. They were constantly on hand for more drinks and clearing of your table but again in a delicate manor rather than making you feel like you should leave as soon as you’ve had your last mouthful. I was also impressed by their knowledge of the food they were serving and the wine they would recommend to go with it, to me that is professional and more importantly shows they are interested in what their doing rather than just serving.

The Grape Vine’s authentic Greek fare included excellent Humus, lamb kofte & a varied selection of both hot and cold Mezze. Along with this there were a selection of steaks, chicken & fish and some tasty looking vegetarian options. The side dishes complimented the mains and the wine list was excellent.

The menu was varied but not overpowering and one of the things I loved most about the food was the fact they had such large selection dishes from the grill.  Not only did it give everything that home cooked with a hint of the Mediterranean taste, it was also healthy!

To start my Grapevine experience we were welcomed at the bar with two glasses of house white, it was a lovely soft pinot, chilled & in a really big glass which is just how I like my wine to be. Once seated I opted for the halloumi to start, which is my favourite cheese and which was THE best I have ever had!

For main I had the fish kebab, which came with rice, salad and the most amazing chunky chips. The fish was tender and not dry in anyway (which can sometimes happen when you grill fish without the skin on) instead it was juicy and succulent. Now you might be mistaken for thinking that I haven’t got a sophisticated palate but this is not the case and even if it was The Grape Vine has enough dishes to suite all tastes so it wouldn’t matter anyway.

My boyfriend Jeff had the spicy sausage & hummus to start & the fillet steak and Cypriot potatoes for main. Of course I had to taste it (much to his annoyance) and it was amazing, the fillet steak melted in the mouth and the potatoes where roasted perfectly.

The Grapevine is without a doubt going to be a big eating influence on this area, along with providing their customers with an amazing Mediterranean dining experience in a relaxed atmosphere; they also have exceptional service and heavenly food! The complete dining experience!

The Grapevine 0208 504 2545
24 The Broadway
Woodford
Essex
IG9