Londonist asks that most pressing of daily concerns: where to go on your lunch break.
The Gate Vegetarian Restaurant
51 Queen Caroline Street, W6 9QL
020 8748 6932
Lunch Mon-Fri 12-3pm - Dinner Mon-Sat 6-11pm
Expect to Pay: £5-6 for most starters, mains around £12-15, desserts roughly £5
What’s for lunch? We’re glad you asked! It’s been awhile since we posted one of our weekly lunch reviews, but now we’re back (bigger and better, we hope!) and looking forward to sharing our lunchtime findings with you. For the next few months or so, the meals reviewed in this series will be paid for Qype, to whom we’d like to say thanks so much!A couple weeks back (on one of those few sunny gorgeous September days), Londonist ambled down Hammersmith’s rather residential Queen Caroline Street, happening upon The Gate Vegetarian Restaurant. Actually we had made a lunch reservation the night before (which isn’t a bad idea but don’t be afraid to walk-in), yet were still a bit surprised by its lovely, slightly removed from the road, location (especially considering how conveniently close it is to Hammersmith Station and to the Apollo).
We had a nice meal at The Gate and were impressed by the visual presentation of the dishes. In particular, our asparagus cannelloni main (fresh rocket pasta filled with grilled asparagus, ricotta and fresh herbs, served with sauce vierge, roasted cherry tomato and sautéed calvenero) arrived at our table looking artfully constructed and gorgeous. The lunch was flavourful and pleasant with no surprises. We walked away with a feeling of satisfaction, but one that was far from “Wow! When can we get back here for another meal?” Good, commendable, healthy food but nothing spectacular (and not terribly vegan-friendly either).
Our only real complaint was that, the longer we remained at The Gate, the more incredibly oblivious our waiter seemed to be of our presence. That said, when we did get his attention, he was fairly courteous. Our dishes were served quickly as well.
Bottom line? Whether you’re vegetarian or not, definitely keep this veggie resto in mind if you’re in the area. However, we wouldn’t recommend making a special trip just for a meal at The Gate.
For more reviews of The Gate Vegetarian Restaurant, as well as thousands of other London restaurants, take a look at Qype.co.uk.
