Thomas Max(imum disappointment)wells in Parkmore

So, I know many people rave about Thomas Maxwell's and once upon a time I was one of them. However, the last two occasions upon which I have eaten there have been disappointing.  The food has been ok, the prices high and the service, to be honest, dismissive.

For example, the last time I was at the establishment I was taking four of us out for dinner for my sister's birthday.  Now, if you were paying R4.5k without tip (although I did leave one) for a meal and two of you sent back your dessert almost untouched,( The beignets, Don't do it!) would you not expect someone to ask why? When no one did, I volunteered feedback noting that we hadn't eaten more than a bite or two of the dessert because it was not good.  This was pretty much ignored - not even really acknowledged - just shrugged off. Even Spur acknowledges when they don't get things right, but Thomas Maxwell's couldn't care less.

Of the four main meals, one was really good and the other three were mediocre.  I am not going into loads of detail on what we ate, how we ate it and how it tasted.  This is because to be honest the overall experience and attitude left me with only one taste in my mouth and it was sour.  I don't plan to be back because I certainly expected more from the staff of a restaurant of this repute.

Btw. complementary Madeleine's are only a positive if they are fresh and made well. I know Chez Benoit in Paris does it as standard, but my advice is if you can't guarantee the quality, rather leave them out.

Bistro Vine, oh so fine...every time

The very best thing about Bistro Vine is its absolute consistency... I have never been disappointed.  That doesn't mean every meal was sublime every time, but the scale is always: pretty damn good to exceptional - and really who could ask for more than that!

The menu is solid bistro with some great staples such as the "moules frites"; succulent mussels served with fabulous twice-fried fries, home-made mayonnaise and a sensational sauce.  If you get lucky, they sometimes have an awesome clam and merguez sausage pasta on special - just perfect for a cold day.  Other dishes to look out for include the steaks frites (3 cuts), the pork chops and don't forget the oh so delicious braised lamb. For me, dessert is always either the bitter lemon tart or the pannacotta, but there are many other lovely to choices to tempt your palate.

The wine list is stocked with interesting and well priced choices, including some French options.  I really appreciate the fact that even the imported wines are still within reasonable means and that when asked for recommendations, I have never been steered wrong. This brings me to the wait staff, who I have to say are some of the best I have come across in Johannesburg. They are informed, interested and interactive - without being pushy.  Hats off to whoever is in charge of the training programme, it certainly adds to the dining experience.

The cosy atmosphere makes this a great place for a romantic date or a meal with friends, although with only 60 or so seats in the restaurant, I would advise booking.  I suppose the only potential pot-hole for this fabulous establishment is that the menu is a little short on vegetarian options...however, being a carnivore myself, that doesn't really worry me.

So, Bistro Vine, it's so fine!  I recommend it unreservedly.