It's hard to miss a Giraffe and this little restaurant in Chiswick is no exception. Offering family oriented world food, Giraffe makes a great choice for a Saturday lunch pit stop or a cheap evening out with friends.

The Venue
The Chiswick branch of this modern chain is well located on the high road, a ten minute walk from Turnham Green tube station. The restaurant itself is fairly small and narrow but the bright lights and colourful orange decor make the space feel a lot bigger. There are also large windows at the front that open onto the pavement and a few tables on the street itself. Inside the walls are decorated with photos from around the world and light-hearted poems scrawled across the walls. The overall effect works well day and night but is more coffee shop than restaurant.

The Atmosphere
Giraffe has a cheerful, upbeat feel with a lively atmosphere. Whilst many restaurants may claim to be child friendly Giraffe is truly a venue that welcomes children with open arms and is well set up to cater for their needs. The staff are unfailingly cheerful in the face of any demand and this really helps to set Giraffe apart from other chain restaurants. Giraffe is also a great place for groups although probably not somewhere you would want to take a date.

The Food
The menu offers an eclectic selection of food ranging through Mexican, Asian and European cuisine. The starters include light options such as the yakatori asparagus through to the more substantial mixed mezze platters. The Japanese dipping prawns are a good choice with tasty batter and a tangy lime dipping sauce although they disappear far too quickly! The Bang Bang chicken salad is less impressive, pleasant enough but lacking any discernible bang. The main course choices are equally varied and portions are hearty. The turkey enchiladas pack a punch living up to the description of tangy and spicy. The schnitzel burger requires both hands to eat and comes with a large portion of fries (no need for the side order of onion rings). The dessert choices are mostly of the sticky, sweet, ice cream sundae variety, clearly aimed at kids although equally enticing for adults. The cherry and apple crumble is the most grown up choice. It is large enough to share and comes fresh out of the oven, with the obligatory scoop of vanilla ice cream.

The Drink
As with the food there is something to please everyone on the drinks menu. Fresh fruit smoothies for the kids, a selection of bottled beers for Dad and cocktails for Mum. There is also a short but diverse wine list ranging from Happy (cheap) to Gorgeous (expensive).

The Last Word
Like it's namesake, Giraffe is a loveable beast. The food is varied, well prepared and the service slick and cheerful. Giraffe also offers value for money, with a three course meal plus drinks for four coming in at around £100.

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