2 /5 Chloe Morton: I was really disappointed with our visit. I went with my partner and a few friends after work on a Wednesday, having chosen this restaurant specifically because I have some food intolerances. I’d checked beforehand and read that they were good at handling gluten and lactose intolerances, which made it seem like a safe choice.
Unfortunately, the service let the evening down. From the start, it felt like any request - even for water or to place our order - was a major inconvenience. I asked for the allergen menu as soon as we arrived (something I had seen mentioned in reviews), but it never came. When I followed up, the waiter rolled his eyes. When I explained I had intolerances, he rolled his eyes again, which made me feel really small and uncomfortable. I always try to be polite and accommodating about my dietary needs, so this reaction felt especially disheartening.
When my meal arrived (the hot beef cheeks), it was unfortunately cold and overcooked. On a positive note, my friends said their dishes were lovely - especially the cauliflower, which everyone raved about. The rest of the mains (steak, chicken roulade, and chicken burgers) were all enjoyed as well.
It is sad because it really overshadowed some nice mains. Everyone at the table felt embarrassed at the service and wanted to leave as soon as possible because of how unwelcoming the server was to me - mortifying!
I also requested some gluten-free bread, which was delicious. However, when our waiter returned (after a long gap - around 30 minutes), he seemed annoyed that I’d asked another staff member for it and rolled his eyes again. Later, when he brought the dessert menu, he returned less than a minute later asking if we were ready to order, which just added to the awkwardness.
In the end, the whole table felt uncomfortable because of his attitude - especially with how he treated me.
Overall, while the restaurant’s understanding of allergies and intolerances is good in theory, the way the situation was handled by staff was very disappointing. I left feeling belittled and like I was an inconvenience, despite going out of my way to be considerate and choose dishes I knew were safe.
Very sad as I have heard positive things from friends. I hate complaining and I never leave negative reviews (this is my first one) but I felt so upset from the evening I had to say something.
Will not be returning.