Address - 101 SEKI Bld. 2-6-10, Takadanobaba, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Opening hours - Closed on Sunday. Open from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm and from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm Map - Yes Telephone - 3200-6571 Menu - In Japanese and English CC - OK

I have been eating at La Dinette for close to 15 years, and I always thought it gave incredible value for money. Strictly speaking for food, that's still true. You can eat well there, and for next to nothing: 2200 yen for the set.

In the hands of the two guys who run it now, however, it has changed a lot: the first thing you see when you enter is a dirty rug, convered with grime. The toilet is a mess and hasn't been cleaned in a while. The sink is especially filthy.

I am not fussy, but I can think of so many places where I can eat well and without worrying about hygiene. If you really want to eat French in Takadanobaba, go to L'Amitie (far easier to get a seat there now) or Cave Bar.