Southampton

There are two main areas for eating out in Southampton; the first is Oxford Street towards Ocean Village and the second is around Bedford Place just North of the city.

Oxford Street has a selection of higher class and therefore more expensive restaurants. Recommended are the White Star English/Traditional, Kutis Indian, Poppadom Express Indian and Pilgrim House Chinese. Arguably, the two best restaurants in the street are the Oxford Brasserie and the Oxford Bar and Restaurant almost next door to each other but unconnected.

The choice in Bedford Place is rather more varied; ranging from Moroccan and Mexican at the Southern end of the road through student style curry houses and a chinese to some late night kebab and chip shops. In terms of value for money the Pride Of India is one of best Indians in the city, but most of the restaurants are good value, if not exactly awe-inspiring taste-wise.

Walking distance from Bedford Place is the area of town that used to be known as Hungry Hill; Commercial Road where the existence of the Mayflower Theatre has meant a thriving trade for various restaurants in pre- and post-theatre eating. Again the choice is varied although generally the quality to cost ratio is not as high as it might otherwise be; although Buon Gusto Italian and Cafe Pattaya Thai are particularly recommended.

There are obviously the usual range of fast food chains spread throughout the city; formerly Burger King and McDonalds faced each other across the Bargate like petulant children with the gate itself acting like a peace-making mother, but McDonalds gave up the fight and fled to the West Quay shopping centre. Furthermore, there are many takeaways in Southampton (http://www.foodagogo.com/...) that do delivery and allow you to pick up the food yourself. Typical meals range from £7-£15. Check with your hotel/hostel if they allow food orders.