Joy in City of London, Westminster

I have absolutely no idea how or why this place gets good reviews - it's like they're all reviewing a different restaurant! The food here was simply terrible. Starters were not too bad, although the waitress struggled to understand the difference between 'hot' and 'cold'. Our table was under a bright white neon light that might have been appropriate for a nasty surgical procedure but was not exactly gentle and welcoming for a cozy dinner. Still, we could live with all that... except the main course was truly dreadful. I had a lamb stew which turned out to be bits of greasy meat swimming in some sort of grey liquid, and the veggie stuff was either tasteless or actually unpleasant. The guy that runs the place was perfectly friendly but nobody cleared away our (largely uneaten) plates for what seemed like an age and the waitress, though also friendly and smiley, seemed to have disappeared altogether. Nor was it cheap - nearly £80 for two - which was just a joke really. I love Ethiopian food, but this place - never again.

Good quality falafel and salads either in a box or in a pitta. There are a few tables inside and 2 or 4 outside. It is not cheap - a box of falafel with pitta and a small bottle of water cost over £10. Nevertheless I had a good lunch and will probably return.

Food was perfect and different (in a very good way) to tasting menus I've had in other Michelin starred restaurants. Each course was delicious, but the highlight for me was the longhorn beef and jollof rice. That rice was incredible. The spicing level was perfect, not hot enough to blow your head off, but you definitely knew it was there. I had moimoi years ago, but Akoko's version was on another level. Portion sizes were generous, and this meal was excellent value for money. Service was professional, and welcoming. Pleasant staff, very friendly. The Akoko pairing was also a welcome change to just wine. It was lovely to have something different. The whole experience was superb. I highly recommend this restaurant, and will definitely return.

The restaurant is next door to the Rubens at the Palace which is where we were staying. The food is very good and the maitre'd Ian is the best. He's friendly outgoing and attentive to all his customers. We enjoyed him as much as we enjoyed our meal. The restaurant was busy but not over crowded. Definitely a good spot for a meal.

Great vegan gluten free options