Sarah Jessie (21 September 2008)

The Bean Tree is obviously trying to be something it is not. Yes, it is in a lovely old building and the gardens are lovely for your pre-dinner drinks but the food lets the whole thing down - and to be honest that is what you are going for. It is much overpriced for what it is. The starter was nicely presented and tasted lovely but did not warrant the £10.50 price. I ordered a main course of rack of lamb for £26 and when ordering the waiter asked how I wanted it cooked and I said medium-rare. What I received was three cutlets medium to well-done and one cutlet, which was blue. They were dry and looked like they had been pre-cooked and then fried off to be put on the plate. The whole meal was dry and not very flavoursome. If the food is not going to be cooked to request then the waiters shouldn't ask the question of how you want it done. Our dessert was pleasant but once again nothing special. The service is average and I must admit we’ve had better.