Restaurant at The Salty Monk

Sheila Sillick (19 May 2007)

In view of its two AA rosettes, I was expecting a rather special meal when I visited this restaurant last week. Unfortunately, my expectation was sadly misplaced. Ostentation, pretension and style over substance are the adjectives that spring to mind. Only five of the available tables were occupied so the solitary waitress was hardly overworked; however, when I remarked on the fact that the flowers on my table were dead, (whilst fresh on all the others, including those that were unoccupied) she simpered, turned and walked off making no attempt either to apologise or to replace them. As for the food, the two amuse bouches that arrived with my drink were unexceptional and unidentifiable; the coffee-cup of asparagus soup that followed was at least reminiscent of asparagus, but sadly, worse was to follow. My chosen starter of sliced tomato with Parmesan crisp, salad leaves with truffle oil consisted of a watery tomato, a stale-tasting Parmesan basket and no discernible trace of truffle oil. My main course of black bream with red wine sauce and rosti potato was equally disappointing, the bream lacking in flavour and the "rosti" being a fried cake of previously mashed potato. The separately served vegetables looked so limp and unattractive, that I tried them only to ascertain that their appearance was not deceptive. In conclusion, a very disappointing meal and one that I would not wish on any other innocent visitor.

Bill P (1 May 2007)

Splendid, really good quality, friendly but not over familiar service, stunning cutlery, crockery and glassware that did justice to the superb and brilliantly presented food. Complimentary bottled water and coffee as well.