Copthorne Hotel Cardiff-Caerdydd

The platter was generous for two, and the food itself was delicious. We came to the Copthorne's Lakeview Restaurant for Sunday roast, and I'd come back for the food. The Sunday menu isn't listed on the website, but there are some options. Service took away from the meal. We were the only diners when we arrived, and after greeting us, our host asked about starters. We said no. She told us to order drinks at the bar rather than have them brought to the table. The drinks came quickly, since the restaurant was empty, but it was disappointing that table service wasn't offered. We waited a long time for her to take our food order, then the dishes came out without us being asked individually what we wanted. She asked about allergies, but we weren't given a chance to order anything other than braised beef. The menu lets you add sides, and some of us wanted extra cauliflower cheese. When we asked after the food arrived, she said the chef would have to make it fresh and it wouldn't come out at the same time. We said that was fine. Before she got back to the kitchen, though, I heard her tell the chef, “I need extra cauliflower cheese,” and the chef reply, “you didn’t tell me you needed it.” She answered, “yeah well they didn’t tell me they wanted it.” We were close enough to hear, and several of us felt like a burden for asking for a simple side. Nobody had asked if we wanted extras. Her attitude was poor, and it marred the experience.

The food was tasty, though there wasn't much choice and it could have used more fresh vegetables. The reception and lounge-dining area looked lovely with the Christmas decorations. Our room was comfortable, with a decent bed and a good night's sleep. It felt a little old-fashioned and tired, but was more than okay. I understand the rooms are being renovated. We liked the stay and would return.

There was plenty of space in my clean room, and the hotel was great value. The buffet breakfast was delicious. I had lasagna on the first evening and Korean BBQ beef the next night, and would recommend both.

A handy place to stop, with good food, plenty of choice and friendly, professional service. The location is great, prices are reasonable, and there are discounts for longer stays.