Cosmo – The Brewery

Having now visited Cosmo on a number of occasions (including the other branch near Romford station, which now appears to have been taken over by another business), I feel I can safely say I’ve given it a fair try.
As an all you can eat, Pan Asian buffet it certainly looks impressive on the surface. The layout is beautiful, the staff polite and walking round to fill up your plate is a joy as there is such a variety of cuisines and dishes to choose from. On my most recent visit, there were a number of Malaysian, Japanese and Korean dishes available in addition to the usual Chinese, Indian and Thai staples. There are also sushi options, roast meats, a salad bar and a number of blander options such as hash browns and chips. The dessert bar is just as extensive, featuring numerous cakes, ice creams and sweets as well as fruit and at least one chocolate fountain.
But all the choice and elegant presentation counts for little if the actual food is not of a good quality. Unfortunately, this is the natural compromise of all you can eat buffet restaurants. In this case, the dishes I tried fell somewhere between bland and inedible. For example, the Thai chicken meatballs were colourful and appetising to look at, but lacked any of the distinct aromas and flavours that are the backbone of Thai cuisine. At the other end of the spectrum, Char Sui Pork Buns were absolutely foul with a dry and chewy dough that swamped the cold and flavourless pork within.
I’d rather have good quality than abundant choice. As such, I won’t be returning to Cosmo.

It’s better than the original! There are 2 Comso’s in Romford. This one is inside near Sainsbury’s. I loved the food at the other Romford restaurant, but this one I think is personally better. The food seems more varied and the design and layout is amazing, very modern interior. They even use iPod touches to take your order! I have been told that all the best staff from the other Comos in Romford have been sent to this new flagship restaurant and it shows, staff are friendly, efficient and food is always great and hot. Pricing is not bad either.