TGI Friday's

This review appears in the The List's Eating & Drinking Guide 2008 – in the shops now or buy online.

Now in its 15th year of serving up hearty American favourites to families, office parties and numerous other punters, TGI Friday's is as busy as ever (and by some accounts it's the most popular restaurant in the city). The chain operation's formula of fast food, friendly service and a lively atmosphere is clearly a winner. In keeping with the US theme, the restaurant is loud and brash. Food ranges from steaks, burgers, ribs and club sandwiches into Tex-Mex territory with fajitas, quesadillas and Cajun chicken. None of it has any pretensions of being home-made, but no one in the packed house seems to be complaining – and, on the upside, dishes certainly arrive quickly. Expect a bacon cheeseburger to feature a lean mince patty, served with some excellent chips (though it lacks a side salad to brighten up the plate). There are some more grown-up choices such as fillet steak or, of course, a mixed drink from the extensive cocktail list. It might be a sin against Uncle Sam not to sample one, available in regular or 'ultimate' size, which is approximately equivalent to a goldfish bowl.

• High point: Always bustling and lively
• Low point: Plates a bit grubby