New Culture Revolution, Chelsea

It was a Saturday night and a friend and I had intended a night in with X Factor, or perhaps the cinema, but at the last moment we fancied eating out.  Cheap and cheerful was the way forward and we ended up at New Culture Revolution on the Kings Road.  It was full but a couple were just leaving and so we were seated immediately and presented with menus.

There's nothing surprising on there but we were happy to go for classics.  To start, chilli squid and spring rolls didn't disappoint.  The prawn crackers were of the Chinese takeaway variety though - thin and cardboardy as opposed to the thick crunchy ones you usually get in restaurants.  My sauteed chicken char mein for main course was substantial and tasty.  Katy's chicken tong mein was a little bland I think but brimming with vegetables and improved with seasoning.

The service was fine - a little slow, but generally helpful.  The atmosphere was subdued for a Saturday night, with bright lighting and a canteen feel, which I suppose is what it's based on really.

Two courses and a glass of wine: £18 per head

Value: 6/10

Service: 7/10

Atmosphere: 6/10

Food: 7/10

SCORE: 26/40

New Culture Revolution, 305 Kings Road, London, SW3 5EP.  Tel: 020 73529281.