Bertram's

The cafe itself is lovely, but it seems to have shifted to more of a restaurant feel, with prices to match. After a long wet walk, we were hoping for a hot drink and maybe cake, but chose drinks only. Staff seemed less interested in us, perhaps because that was all we ordered. The hot chocolate arrived with cream that smelled spoiled. They replaced it and said it had just been changed, so maybe something hadn't been cleaned properly, but I was put off and couldn't enjoy it much. The other drinks were fine. We thought this might be the only decent cafe in Warkworth after hearing good things, and saw another group leave disappointed when there were no cakes, heading elsewhere.

This used to be our favourite place for lunch, but the experience has changed enough that this may have been our last visit. There are no cakes now, and the lunch menu is very limited. Even the salad garnish and sides have lost their special touch, now just plain lettuce. People seemed to arrive expecting the old Bertrams, then either settle for coffee or leave after seeing the menu. Some were turned away or told they could sit outside, while the new booking system appeared to leave empty tables waiting for arrivals. It may suit you, but check before booking.

Louise looked after us brilliantly, and the restaurant is dog friendly, which is a big plus. We had dinner here for the first time tonight and the food was amazing. I can't understand some of the reviews below, since both the service and food were exceptional. We've already booked another visit.

The courtyard is nice for a drink, but I wouldn't return for dinner. It was very expensive, and paying 150 for dinner for two only to have two dogs nearly fighting in the room halfway through felt unacceptable. Dog fatigue is real, and owners are ruining places like this.