Forest grows in the basement

This review was published in August 2002

Field & Forest is the newly opened 'bar-grill-pret' in the bowels of Covent Garden's Thomas Neal centre - and while the central location is certainly convenient, the basement space isn't exactly spectacular.

Boasting the de rigueur open plan kitchen, beige paint job and subdued lighting, it's up to the giant screen projection of surfer films and footage of the Rio carnival to distract from the uninspiring view of the Quicksilver sports shop through the window.

Luckily, though, Field & Forest seems more committed to delivering quality food than flashy visuals. The grilled chicken, and swordfish brochette were unavailable on our visit - which was no bad thing, as the grilled Argentinian fillet steak with celeriac slaw and the seared tuna nićoise were expertly prepared, well presented and very tasty.

Our midweek visit didn't see Field & Forest at its busiest and the sparseness of fellow diners ensured we received very friendly and attentive service - the tip to go for the super-fresh specially imported Italian buffalo mozzarella was worth listening to.

Field & Forest hasn't found its feet yet: a more extensive menu and livelier atmosphere wouldn't go amiss, but they're rectifying that problem with their new pre-launch offer. Three courses plus drinks cost us more than £50 but you can enjoy a three-course meal plus glass of wine for £15 a head - just call and quote '£15 deal'.

Field and Forest
22 Shorts Gardens, WC2