Grey, Grumpy Vilnius

The Beer Bar: Enter at One's Own Risk

A blast from the past: The Fabijonskes District of Vilnius

Although the centre of Vilnius is a hotchpotch of baroque buildings and postmodern glass scyscrapers, a lot of the suburbs of the city's landscape is dominated by grey Soviet tower blocks. If you come to Vilnius, do not expect service with a smile, or a thank you come to that. The service in restaurants and supermarkets is pretty miserable and Soviet Union. They are particularly weary of foreigners around the area, although no-one has yet given me any grief.

Grumpy top Five:

1. Cili Kaimas on Vokiečių 8.

This place is very much like the Harvester in the UK, but with 'traditional' Lithuanian food. Don't even expect a thank you here. Expect to queue here for a long time. Once you are in, they will get you in and out as quickly as possible.

2. Baras Bistrot on Konsitutious Street

This place in the basement of the Soros International House school is a cheap, fast and convenient place to eat. The waiting staff occasionally smile. If you are lucky

3. The service in Akropolis Shopping Centre

Go anywhere in Akropolis and you will find sloppy service everywhere. This is probably because people are paid a pittance and are treated badly by bosses and customers.

4. The National Museum, Vilnius

Check out the stern looking staff making sure you don't do anything stupid or take any pictures.

5. The Kiosks

Next Week: Happy Vilnius Top Ten