This follows two formal complaints to the restaurant, where we recently celebrated my birthday.

Sicne the gathering of 15 people, I have been disgusted and embarassed to hear my friends' comments, including the moment when the chef came out of the kitchen said to the waiter, I quote: "these people are taking the piss, when the f*ck are they going to eat?". This was overheard by 4 of my guests.

Furthermore, the quality of the food was diabolical. Comments from my guests included: "the worse restaurant meal I've ever eaten". The chicken was inedible on two counts, and the steaks were a disgrace. One of my guests suspected that the meat had been microwave cooked or reaheated, and when this was mentioned to the waiter, his response was to say "oh" and he walked away. No response, no apology.

I have for many years been a regular visitor to the Covent Garden branch and have never ever encountered such poor service, poor food or been insulted by members of staff.

My view of Brown's and that of my 14 guests has been severely tainted.

Browns is not what it used to be. Used to be good. Now it's not very good. Avoid the food and have a beer as even they can't screw that up - although once it was warm.
Brown's is best avoided, there are better options in Islington.

I hadn't been to Browns in a while as I had got bored with the look and feel. Having grown up in Brighton, studied in Bristol and then lived in Islington, 10 years was enough. In October 2004, Browns Islington changed its look - what a difference! Browns was once safe, comfortable and same-old but it is now a lot more contemporary. None of the old plus points have gone - still great staff, unusual wines, good, simple, honest food and fantastic cocktails. But they have all been given a fresh lease of life. I have now been in three times in the last month - each time for a different occasion (once for a beer, once for dinner with my girlfriend, and once with 5 friends) every time has been superb. A really good place.