Layla - Merton

As a regular diner in Wimbledon Village I thought I would give Layla's a try for a second time. I went there on a Sunday lunchtime. We were shown to a table and I was surprised to be waiting around 10 minutes to receive a menu. We ordered a few mezes which arrived but very slowly. Our main courses would have taken over one and a half hours to arrive but we had to leave as it was taking too long. A shame really as the restaurant in Esher is fantastic and I have had some fantastic experiences there. On a plus they didn't charge us for the food, only for our drinks. Probably avoid unless you have quite a bit of time set aside. I'm hoping they can improve as the restaurant is a great concept.

We arrived for a birthday celebration with my daughter for Sunday lunch. The restaurant was half empty. We ordered starters of a mezze platter and halloumi pitta and mains. After 1 hour and 5 minutes the starters arrived. Very mediocre. ....... and we waited. Other customers near us who were clearly regulars were being served and we asked a few times on the last occasion being told it would be 5 minutes. Ten minutes later and after waiting for 1 hour and 45 minutes for the main courses, we left. The waiters were pleasant enough and clearly working under stress. We were also only charged for a coke and wine and not for the mezze platter and halloumi. Not coming back... Dont bother! Most disappointing.

My husband and I decided to try this fairly new restaurant in the village because we couldn't be bothered to go into Central London for my birthday. The restaurant was nicely decorated and for a Sunday night there were a few tables in. The food was very average and sadly the lamb schwarma was a real let down, the kebab shop down the Broadway does a better schwarma. The Mixed Grill was ok but that was about it. We had high hopes for this restaurant because it looks so nice and we mourned the passing of the previous restaurant on this site, the Butcher and Grill but sadly this didn't wow and I doubt if we will go back, shame.

Really underwhelmed by food. Good ambiance helped by belly dancer and music. Over £8 charged per person for 'platter ' which was 3 tablespoons of dips and some bread. Under seasoned lamb shank. Better food at Lebanese takeaway in Motspur Park for about £10.

The place was empty but service very slow! The food over rated. Expensive for what it is!! Would not be in a rush to go back!!!