Number 44 Hotel & Bar

I left without sitting down, less than two minutes after arriving for my first visit. I came with my partner and our son in a pram, just before 9:40 am. At the door I asked someone by the coffee machine whether we chose a table or were seated. They ignored me, so I asked an older woman who came from the back to the bar. She said the window seats were reserved for a group that comes every week, pointed us to another table, then launched into an explanation that the signs were there because those seats were reserved. I hadn’t mentioned the window tables, and I hadn’t gone near them, so I hadn’t seen any signs. When I said that, she replied that she’d assumed I had seen them and gone over. I was asking where we could sit precisely because I didn’t know. Don’t presume, and don’t talk to me as if I need a lecture or am stupid for missing a sign. It’s not just what you say, it’s how you say it. I’ve worked in hospitality for nearly 20 years and managed many restaurants. I wouldn’t speak to a customer that way, and neither would my staff. Better not ask questions, apparently.

It was cold and raining, so we came in for lunch yesterday. They were very busy, but we found a table. We chose from the pensioners menu, and the food was lovely. The service was friendly, and we couldn’t fault it. Thank you.

The bacon was crisp, tasty and a decent portion, but the pancake stack wasn’t good. The pancakes seemed like cheap supermarket ones and weren’t great quality. They’d also run out of potato scones, though we arrived before we were served. Maybe it was just an off day, but I won’t be rushing back. I’ve had better breakfasts.

The location is excellent, the service is good, and the rooms, though small, are clean. The food tastes great, but getting it can take around an hour, even for a small breakfast menu. Some dishes also don’t match the photos from two years ago. The Wellington now comes as a slice rather than a full one, and if it’s overcooked, they still serve it. The pork belly and scallions have changed too, and it’s bacon now.