Topic ID 3940
Opening night last night so i thought I would pop along at 9.30pm to check it out. I got as far as the door where they tried to charge me £7 to get in! [:0] So I turned around and went elsewhere and, from what I saw, I was not the only one! It's no wonder that people who used to travel to Hertford for a night out don't anymore. I can only assume that their beer prices would have been way over the top too. [V]
Reply ID 57210
Let me get this right. It was their opening night and they were actually charging people to go in to see what all the fuss was about? Very poor tactics in my opinion. Even bars in London don't do that on their virgin night.
Reply ID 57216
I'm lost, i thought this was a restaurant/bar ? - was the £7 to go upstairs ?, it there a late night bar upstairs or something ?
Reply ID 57218
The ground floor and upstairs are the restaurant. The cellar is the nightclub (25 plus age range). You can get to it through the side entrance as well as through the restaurant if you're dining there. The wine list was very good and the mark ups were reasonable. Their 'virgin' night was the Friday, not the Saturday.
Reply ID 57228
They were open on Thursday night, and busy. I'm not sure if this was a VIP night though, but it looks nice in there
Reply ID 57312
so is it £7 to go into the restaurant?
Reply ID 57333
I spoke to manager today and here goes, It doesn't cost to go into the restaurant and the bar downstairs is free all week apart from after 10pm on Friday and Saturday
Reply ID 57334
Sounds like Richie may have lost a bit of time last Saturday ! [:D]
Reply ID 57347
enter another Stonehouse-like queue to get in. No doubt they stop people going downstairs after 9:30pm so they can charge an entrance fee for the people queing after 10pm
Reply ID 57351
They were in town today, handing out free samples and menus. I had some Foccacia but resisted the fudge... I'd say the prices on the menu were on the high-side but may be worth it.
Reply ID 57370
quote:Alas not! [:(] I was as sober as a bloke who can no longer afford to get drunk in the town.... and the time was accurate. Can the manager explain that? There was no queue. Sounds like its all being made up as they go along. From the reports i've heard, albeit hearsay, the bar was quiet and a bit dull....so £7 [?][?][?]
Originally posted by Frenchie
Sounds like Richie may have lost a bit of time last Saturday ! [:D]
Reply ID 57372
£4 a pint for beer!!!!!!!
Reply ID 57375
does that mean that you have Hertford's cheapest & most expensive on the same street, pretty much next door to each other?
Reply ID 57396
quote:It would appear so!..... and yet the most expensive one is zeros old basement, un-tried and un-established! How arrogant is that????[:)]
Originally posted by thefair1973
does that mean that you have Hertford's cheapest & most expensive on the same street, pretty much next door to each other?
Reply ID 57404
Has anyone on this thread actually BEEN IN to Deco (restaurant and/or bar) and is therefore able to carry out an effective review? Many of these posts are guesswork, hearsay and judgemental. Go first, critique after! I'm getting pretty exasperated here! What are people suggesting? That they should undercharge until they get established then put the prices up and be accused of 'ripping people off' because they need to pay the bills? This is not a local boozer, this is a lounge bar and a different breed entirely. We went to dinner there and found their wine list to be nicely varied and fairly priced for a restaurant, Mrs P has her nose firmly into market values of wine so knows what she's talking about. The food was well presented, well executed and fairly priced for the quality of food and cooking. We did not go into the bar but for a look around; it's a good looking, unpretentious bar area and somewhere we'll be going to before long. I wish them well and we will definitely be going back.
Reply ID 57412
quote:Well said. Any business venture at the moment is brave and a negative 'review' from people who haven't been can't help. I'm not sure myself whether I'd try and attend post 10pm but if it's decent then others will. People are prepared to pay these prices if the place looks and feels good. I will definitely try it out at the weekend and see for myself. I think the owners may well have spotted a gap at the upper end of the bar/restaurant type place in town. I'd like to wish them all the best.
Originally posted by Mr P
Has anyone on this thread actually BEEN IN to Deco (restaurant and/or bar) and is therefore able to carry out an effective review? Many of these posts are guesswork, hearsay and judgemental. Go first, critique after! I'm getting pretty exasperated here! What are people suggesting? That they should undercharge until they get established then put the prices up and be accused of 'ripping people off' because they need to pay the bills? This is not a local boozer, this is a lounge bar and a different breed entirely. We went to dinner there and found their wine list to be nicely varied and fairly priced for a restaurant, Mrs P has her nose firmly into market values of wine so knows what she's talking about. The food was well presented, well executed and fairly priced for the quality of food and cooking. We did not go into the bar but for a look around; it's a good looking, unpretentious bar area and somewhere we'll be going to before long. I wish them well and we will definitely be going back.
Reply ID 57414
Had the tapas from the lunch menu and a couple of glasses of house wine and I was suitably impressed. The tapas dishes are very good value for money at about £3.50 and the house wine is excellent. The place looks great and after looking a the Sunday lunch menu where children eat for £5 I will be visiting with the rug rats this Sunday. As the post above states I will be giving them my support as I don't want another Zero's or chain pub/club in the town [:)]
Reply ID 57435
quote:Okay... I posted this thread as I thought that to charge £7 to get in to a new bar in Hertford is excessive. The ten o clock thing was not the policy they were displaying on the Saturday I went. This was the reason I did not go in. Any comment I made about what it was like inside I clearly qualified as coming from a third party. I for one will always support new local businesses but not unconditionally. If they want to make this charge, especially at a time when Hertford's establishments are getting quieter by the week, they can only expect critism. If anyone on the moral high ground can objectively and honestly justify this cost then feel free to waste your money.
Originally posted by Michaelquote:Well said. Any business venture at the moment is brave and a negative 'review' from people who haven't been can't help. I'm not sure myself whether I'd try and attend post 10pm but if it's decent then others will. People are prepared to pay these prices if the place looks and feels good. I will definitely try it out at the weekend and see for myself. I think the owners may well have spotted a gap at the upper end of the bar/restaurant type place in town. I'd like to wish them all the best.
Originally posted by Mr P
Has anyone on this thread actually BEEN IN to Deco (restaurant and/or bar) and is therefore able to carry out an effective review? Many of these posts are guesswork, hearsay and judgemental. Go first, critique after! I'm getting pretty exasperated here! What are people suggesting? That they should undercharge until they get established then put the prices up and be accused of 'ripping people off' because they need to pay the bills? This is not a local boozer, this is a lounge bar and a different breed entirely. We went to dinner there and found their wine list to be nicely varied and fairly priced for a restaurant, Mrs P has her nose firmly into market values of wine so knows what she's talking about. The food was well presented, well executed and fairly priced for the quality of food and cooking. We did not go into the bar but for a look around; it's a good looking, unpretentious bar area and somewhere we'll be going to before long. I wish them well and we will definitely be going back.
Reply ID 57558
Mrs R and myself wandered past with another couple on their first Saturday night and they were asking for £7 a pop to enter. It was probably after 11 when we walked by. We quizzed the bouncer who grudgingly admitted it wasn't very busy. £28 for the 4 us merely to satisfy our curiosity didn't appeal. We went back one lunchtime to give the menu a go. Reviews are mixed. Decidedly Hertford average! We tried the tapas menu; some were good, I liked the meatballs and pork with chorizo. Others were very uninspiring and overcooked. Must say the service was slow given that there were very few people around. We were no hurry so it didn't matter on this occasion, however, had we been on a timed lunchbreak I would have been irritated. Can't say I'd rush back for the food, but the setting and the interior did make it an enjoyable experience; people watching the afternoon away. Good coffee.
Reply ID 57762
Hi, I'm the manager of Deco. Hands up, I confess we made a mistake with the £7 charge the first weekend. We were so excited about how lovely our new bar was we over pitched it. The following weekend we compensated by letting everyone in for free all evening so they could have a look and see what we've been up to. The charge is now (and will be for the forseeable future) £5 after 10pm (unless you eat in the restaurant in which case it is free). There is no "managing of the queue" if you come before 10pm and there is room, you will be let in...why would I keep you out when you could be buying drinks?! We have some amazing DJs to play for you including some from Hedkandi and Cafe Mambo, charging at the door enables us to provide this. As for our drinks prices, they are comparable to everywhere else in town and I have even been told they are too cheap! We do sell Peroni on draught, it is a premium beer and therefore costs me a premium to buy...it costs £3.80 a pint and actually thats not a bad deal. We are a new business and as such are just finding our feet, we want to be the best we can and as such I welcome feedback (good and bad) from all our customers to help us achieve this. All I ask is that you do visit before you comment, come and see for yourself!! [:)]
Reply ID 57765
Welcome Liz G. Thanks for the update. Quick question are you open Xmas Eve? If so, are bookings filling up already?
Reply ID 57768
Thanks. Yes we are open Christmas Eve, still bookings available for the restaurant. Tickets for the Lounge only are £10, if you eat in the restaurant first entry is free.
Reply ID 57769
is the website active yet?
Reply ID 57770
The charge is now (and will be for the forseeable future) £5 after 10pm Yes we are open Christmas Eve, still bookings available for the restaurant. Tickets for the Lounge only are£10 [:D][:D]
Reply ID 57771
Surely I'm allowed some dispensation for Christmas Eve?!! Pretty much every pub in town charges for that! We should get a later license for this too and has anyone ever tried to hire a DJ for Christmas eve?! Website should be up and running this week sometime http://www.deco-hertford.com
Reply ID 57772
Sorry, I should also point out that the £5 charge is only for Friday and Saturday night.
Reply ID 57773
cool, definately the place me and partner would go to, normally head into hampstead/belsize park to eat and socialize but DECO looks really nice!
Reply ID 57784
Well done for Liz G to stand up and be counted and address some of the comments and questions on this forum. It could have been easier to get some friends to sign-up under various names and post rave reviews and then disappear from the forum again (*cough* Merchant House). [;)] I’ll check it out in the near future as I think it worth supporting a new venture and one where the people in charge make an attempt to listen to feedback.
Reply ID 57812
I agree! It's good to see honesty and to admit that the £7 was over the top and this has been addressed. Might give it a go now. [:)]
Reply ID 57814
I'm gagging to go to Deco. If only I can convince the other half to come out on the pop!!
Reply ID 57819
Whats the door age policy on a friday/sat?
Reply ID 57820
We are over 25s (whatever night of the week)
Reply ID 57828
We went to the pre-opening evening and the food was great, the pork with beans was without doubt the best I have tasted, had a chat with the chef who listened to our comments and agreed some portions where a little small. Well worth a try though, the bar has a good feel, hard to believe it was Zero's at all! [:D]
Reply ID 57850
Had dinner here last and it was brilliant. The crab starter was lovely and my wife had the scallops and said they were the best she had eaten in a very long time. The lamb main was excellent and as for the deserts they are worth a visit on their own especially the chocolate fondant with homemade hazelnut ice cream. Went downstairs afterwards and had another bottle of wine and really enjoyed the whole evening. Really surprised by the drinks prices in the bar as they seemed cheaper than most bars in the town, £2 for a house spirit is good value for somewhere like this. I hope they are successfull as it is a great place to take friends.
Reply ID 57851
quote:jjr - what did the downstairs look like? Did you get a bottle of wine brought to you or did you have to go to a bar?
Originally posted by jjr
Had dinner here last and it was brilliant. The crab starter was lovely and my wife had the scallops and said they were the best she had eaten in a very long time. The lamb main was excellent and as for the deserts they are worth a visit on their own especially the chocolate fondant with homemade hazelnut ice cream. Went downstairs afterwards and had another bottle of wine and really enjoyed the whole evening. Really surprised by the drinks prices in the bar as they seemed cheaper than most bars in the town, £2 for a house spirit is good value for somewhere like this. I hope they are successfull as it is a great place to take friends.
Reply ID 57853
We were escorted down by the manager after our meal and she asked if we wanted another bottle of the wine we had been drinking upstairs. There weren't any seats left but we stood at a table and a waitress came over with the wine. The bar is very nice and has a good feel to it, not too pretentious with mainly plain walls and some wall paper dotted about. The lighting is good and the bar staff seem well trained with a lot of people drinking cocktails from the menu. We liked the look of most of them but after a three course meal and two bottles of wine we thought the better of indulging, maybe next time [:D] [:D]
Reply ID 57875
Our Saturday night meal for ten was excellent. A few teething problems, in common with many newly opened establishments and front of house staff still finding their feet, but unlike some others, any problems were quickly and efficiently sorted. Bringing cold plates to the attention of staff resulted in a whole new meal being cooked, complete with all side dishes (just as it should be) rather than a quick blast in the microwave. Chef toured the table twice for feedback during the meal. All courses were good, portion sizes about right and a decent selection of desserts was on offer. For personal taste I'd have liked more vegetables with the main dish, but these can be ordered as extras and were good quality. In all, a balanced menu, being updated and revised regularly. At last!
Reply ID 57882
quote:Rough cost Shunt?
Originally posted by shunt
Our Saturday night meal for ten was excellent. A few teething problems, in common with many newly opened establishments and front of house staff still finding their feet, but unlike some others, any problems were quickly and efficiently sorted. Bringing cold plates to the attention of staff resulted in a whole new meal being cooked, complete with all side dishes (just as it should be) rather than a quick blast in the microwave. Chef toured the table twice for feedback during the meal. All courses were good, portion sizes about right and a decent selection of desserts was on offer. For personal taste I'd have liked more vegetables with the main dish, but these can be ordered as extras and were good quality. In all, a balanced menu, being updated and revised regularly. At last!
Reply ID 57887
quote:[?] Allow about £35 per head for the food (main courses £13-18.50, plus sides. Desserts and starters £7 approx), plus wines and coffees.
Originally posted by Capitalist pigletquote:Rough cost Shunt?
Originally posted by shunt
Our Saturday night meal for ten was excellent. A few teething problems, in common with many newly opened establishments and front of house staff still finding their feet, but unlike some others, any problems were quickly and efficiently sorted. Bringing cold plates to the attention of staff resulted in a whole new meal being cooked, complete with all side dishes (just as it should be) rather than a quick blast in the microwave. Chef toured the table twice for feedback during the meal. All courses were good, portion sizes about right and a decent selection of desserts was on offer. For personal taste I'd have liked more vegetables with the main dish, but these can be ordered as extras and were good quality. In all, a balanced menu, being updated and revised regularly. At last!
Reply ID 57892
Nice to see that the polite doorman who used to work at No 11, and always said hello as you passed by, is now working at Deco.
Reply ID 57895
Went in for brunch on Sunday and we were most impressed by the decor, service and food. The evening menu looks great - not dissimilar to the sort of menu you used to see in The Hillside - and we will definitely be going back to try it out.
Reply ID 58178
I am 24 and am a local resident who has been drinking in Hertford for a good few years now. As we have only one place to go for a dance (Stone House) I was excited about Deco opening and looking forward to going somewhere new but was disappointed to be told, when I tried to get in last Saturday, that I was under age! May I enquire as to why the age limit is as high as 25? Why not 21?
Reply ID 58181
quote:Any news on when the website will be up?
Originally posted by Liz G
Website should be up and running this week sometime http://www.deco-hertford.com
Reply ID 58185
quote:It was up and running the last time I checked (Last week??) although a couple of bits (The menu pages) didn't seem to be working properly. I guess they're busy fixing the glitches before it's relaunched.
Originally posted by Stevequote:Any news on when the website will be up?
Originally posted by Liz G
Website should be up and running this week sometime http://www.deco-hertford.com
Reply ID 58186
quote:From my former life running a club, I recall several reasons for age restrictions. One is the management's choice;-targetting a particular market which is seen to be available. In Hertford, Baroosh, The Blackbirds, Stonehouse all now`serve a younger crowd, displacing their more mature clientelle. It is, perhaps, affluent old gits, like myself, that Deco seeks to attract[:D], who find the alternatives either too dull, or don't wish to be surrounded by shirtees (lonely blokes in pastel shirts with logos on), as seen in Baroosh. Another reason might be licensing ease. Door policy is always discussed in such applications. It's easier to tell if someone is of age, if the limit is set well above the 18 minimum and magistrates and police recognise that. In other words, a 16 year old may be able to appear to be 18 or 21, but not 25. It may even be a condition of issuing a license if the premises has a history of problems with door control.
Originally posted by bec501uk
I am 24 and am a local resident who has been drinking in Hertford for a good few years now. As we have only one place to go for a dance (Stone House) I was excited about Deco opening and looking forward to going somewhere new but was disappointed to be told, when I tried to get in last Saturday, that I was under age! May I enquire as to why the age limit is as high as 25? Why not 21?
Reply ID 58194
Shunt, HAve you been in Baroosh recently? I think you'll find that it's definitely not catering for the younger crowd. The average age of clientelle in there in a Friday/Saturday night is probably pushing 30! I'm 35 and I think the clientelle in Baroosh is too old.
Reply ID 58196
I think Deco is aggresively targeting the affluent older drinkers (and diners) who frequent Baroosh and Hertford House Hotel but probably wants to avoid the young crowd of the Stone House & Blackbirds.
Reply ID 58199
quote:That was my impression too. There are so many places for "young" people but not alot for those that are a little beyond that.
Originally posted by Frenchie
I think Deco is aggresively targeting the affluent older drinkers (and diners) who frequent Baroosh and Hertford House Hotel but probably wants to avoid the young crowd of the Stone House & Blackbirds.
Reply ID 58200
def too many places for old ppl imo 20-25 is the hardest I think
Reply ID 58201
quote:No I haven't been to Baroosh recently on a Saturday or a Friday, though it was my usual haunt. Too many nonces on the pull and short of the mark poseurs last time I did. These days it seems to be populated by the cast of an Iceland freezer shop advertisment. Though I'm sure you are amongst the many exceptions, 25-35 year-olds can be the dullest of all. The rebellion of youth blunted and still yet to aquire the sophistication and confidence of experience.
Originally posted by thefair1973
Shunt, HAve you been in Baroosh recently? I think you'll find that it's definitely not catering for the younger crowd. The average age of clientelle in there in a Friday/Saturday night is probably pushing 30! I'm 35 and I think the clientelle in Baroosh is too old.
Reply ID 58234
OK I have been to the restaurant and the bar. Restaurant - well designed (albeit brightly lit which can look like a diner from outside and could do with candles to soften). Food/wine great. Prices competitive. Club downstairs. Paid £5 after 10.00pm on Sat. Expected. Again well designed. Very low ceilings - I am 5'7 and with heels I could touch the ceiling. The older crowd from Baroosh started to wonder in around 11.00pm so felt at home. Music good - although could do more to match the older age group - which would I am sure make the place very popular. I mean there is no where to dance in Hertford if you are over 35 is there? All in all, thank god somewhere to go after Baroosh.
Reply ID 58243
quote:Nice review Beanie. Handy to know about the age group and music. You are right there is nowhere for the over 35`s. Shall give a try and report back.
Originally posted by Beanie
OK I have been to the restaurant and the bar. Restaurant - well designed (albeit brightly lit which can look like a diner from outside and could do with candles to soften). Food/wine great. Prices competitive. Club downstairs. Paid £5 after 10.00pm on Sat. Expected. Again well designed. Very low ceilings - I am 5'7 and with heels I could touch the ceiling. The older crowd from Baroosh started to wonder in around 11.00pm so felt at home. Music good - although could do more to match the older age group - which would I am sure make the place very popular. I mean there is no where to dance in Hertford if you are over 35 is there? All in all, thank god somewhere to go after Baroosh.
Reply ID 58335
we popped in for a coffee mid week. no one else in there. took my 3 yr old who desperately wanted a smoothie/milkshake. the staff said no, so we left. had the same experience in brasserie gerard (who usually do smoothies, although they didn't have enough staff in that day) - there was only 1 table of customers there. do these people not want business? for all they knew, we would have ordered a 3 course meal as well as drinks. mugs.
Reply ID 58338
bengeobabe, i'm sure these people do want business. however capitulating to the demands of one 3yr old child would probably not be a financially good business decision. its a bit harsh to criticising these company's when it is obvious that there business is not aimed at 3yr old child. Could you not suggest to your child to try something different? Thus providing us all with a more informed experience of these two venues?
Reply ID 58342
the snug is the place to go for smoothies!
Reply ID 58346
does anyone know if 'smart' trainers are permitted in Deco?
Reply ID 58349
Hmm, I have a three year old grandson and, as much as I love him I don't think that a place like Decos is the place for him and they probably feel the same way. Come on, this is a bar that is for over 25 year olds and you take a toddler for a smoothie??? Ye gods!
Reply ID 58351
quote:Spot the oxymoron.
Originally posted by thefair1973
does anyone know if 'smart' trainers are permitted in Deco?
Reply ID 58355
quote:sign outside says "children welcome". i didn't take her at 10pm, it was 2 in the afternoon. there was no one else in there so it wasn't like we were disturbing anyone - you think they'd be glad of some business. we went to the snug instead where they were very welcoming!
Originally posted by MoJo
Hmm, I have a three year old grandson and, as much as I love him I don't think that a place like Decos is the place for him and they probably feel the same way. Come on, this is a bar that is for over 25 year olds and you take a toddler for a smoothie??? Ye gods!
Reply ID 58361
quote:So did the staff say 'no'(can't come in) because you have a 3 year old or 'no' because they did not have a smoothie/milkshake?
we popped in for a coffee mid week. no one else in there. took my 3 yr old who desperately wanted a smoothie/milkshake. the staff said no, sign outside says "children welcome"
Reply ID 58362
Just a couple of quick answers for you.. smart trainers are fine, yes we said no because we don't have the necessary equipment/ingredients to make a smoothie/milkshake, children are always welcome in the restaurant (especially for lunch where there are loads of things on the menu they would like!)
Reply ID 58381
Thanks Liz, I didn't see your reply before I went out, so risked it anyway. I did get my footwear queried on the door, but my pristine white trainers did the job. We had a great night in there - excellent job having Peroni on draft, and in it's proper glasses too (even if they do look likes vases!). Good tunes, good atmosphere and an exceptionally attractive blonde barmaid [:D]
Reply ID 58738
Went there Sat night and liked it. No queue at the bar like another place not so far away. Not so busy that there was no space, but busy enough for some atmosphere. Good house music reminding me of my yoof... I did force the bouncer to check my id though even though he said no need - I turn 30 in a few weeks and getting very demoralised that I must be starting to look my age!
Reply ID 58740
good grief I walk about with my eyes shut...never even knew this place existed [:I]...have emailed husband to inform him that us oldies who still like to stay up past 11 pm have somewhere new to play [:)]
Reply ID 58826
I recovered from my sulk over the opening night charge and went to the restaurant xmas eve. The food was very tasty but I agree with previous posts, you need to order some side dishes or you may well still be hungry. Smoked salmon starter was not very generous. Lamb main dish was superb but added some mash and beans at extra cost. Wine was a bit exie, but we expected that! Good choice tho and quality..........and quantity! Sorry can't remember the dessert. Waitress was friendly considering she was working xmas eve. We went downstairs after for FREE! Hooooray! Preety quiet but clean. Luke the barman used to work at the Snug. He's a top man. overall......hic! [:D]
Reply ID 58842
I'm so glad I've joined this forum. Husband's 40th birthday is coming up and I'm taking him to dinner. We had decided on The Hertford Hotel (wanted to try for 1st time) but since I've been reading on here shall now book Deco bar [:)]
Reply ID 58846
quote:Aw, shucks. We're glad too.[:)] Enjoy.
Originally posted by Millie
I'm so glad I've joined this forum. Husband's 40th birthday is coming up and I'm taking him to dinner. We had decided on The Hertford Hotel (wanted to try for 1st time) but since I've been reading on here shall now book Deco bar [:)]
Reply ID 58851
quote:I think they may even have wi-fi Millie! It's a perfect setting for a romantic e-mail! [;)]
Originally posted by Millie
I'm so glad I've joined this forum. Husband's 40th birthday is coming up and I'm taking him to dinner. We had decided on The Hertford Hotel (wanted to try for 1st time) but since I've been reading on here shall now book Deco bar [:)]
Reply ID 58853
quote:I feel a more intimate environment warrants texting [;)]
Originally posted by Richiequote:I think they may even have wi-fi Millie! It's a perfect setting for a romantic e-mail! [;)]
Originally posted by Millie
I'm so glad I've joined this forum. Husband's 40th birthday is coming up and I'm taking him to dinner. We had decided on The Hertford Hotel (wanted to try for 1st time) but since I've been reading on here shall now book Deco bar [:)]
Reply ID 58886
Hi Millie, If you do book for a birthday party the first floor restaurant has some great booths that seat about 7/8, we had one for a group of friends and it was great. The upstairs is a little bit more intimate aswell. Also we went downstairs to the bar in the basement afterwards for free and carried on drinking ! A good night out had by all.
Reply ID 58889
quote:Thanks! [:)]
Originally posted by jjr
Hi Millie, If you do book for a birthday party the first floor restaurant has some great booths that seat about 7/8, we had one for a group of friends and it was great. The upstairs is a little bit more intimate aswell. Also we went downstairs to the bar in the basement afterwards for free and carried on drinking ! A good night out had by all.
Reply ID 59761
Anyone know if its a set menu for valentines??
Reply ID 59803
My comment for Liz - Why not serve coctails in the restaurant? seems a bit silly not to... We went in with some friends who fancied one after dinner, but didnt want to go downstairs as we guessed it was dead down there.. Certainly we were only 1 of 2 parties in the restaurant on that day! Dan
Reply ID 61039
If your over 21 you wouldnt want to go downstairs , we were led down there after our meal to find it is just Zero's with a lick of paint , thought we were going for a quiet cocktail after our meal to be hit with a full on 'Ibiza Night' , walked straight back out .
Reply ID 61437
quote:am thinking of trying the bar/club this Friday...anyone else got any reviews? Is it busy? What time is best to get there for? Thanks in advance!
Originally posted by Donostia
If your over 21 you wouldnt want to go downstairs , we were led down there after our meal to find it is just Zero's with a lick of paint , thought we were going for a quiet cocktail after our meal to be hit with a full on 'Ibiza Night' , walked straight back out .
Reply ID 61660
quote:Did you go, what did you think
Originally posted by Milliequote:am thinking of trying the bar/club this Friday...anyone else got any reviews? Is it busy? What time is best to get there for? Thanks in advance!
Originally posted by Donostia
If your over 21 you wouldnt want to go downstairs , we were led down there after our meal to find it is just Zero's with a lick of paint , thought we were going for a quiet cocktail after our meal to be hit with a full on 'Ibiza Night' , walked straight back out .
Reply ID 61712
quote:yes I went and I think the report I'd heard 'Zeros with a lick of paint' is very harsh...all done very well in my opinion. However, I did feel my age (won't see 39 again)...not their fault of course, but I'd say it's more for the 18-30 market. sigh
Originally posted by jjrquote:Did you go, what did you think
Originally posted by Milliequote:am thinking of trying the bar/club this Friday...anyone else got any reviews? Is it busy? What time is best to get there for? Thanks in advance!
Originally posted by Donostia
If your over 21 you wouldnt want to go downstairs , we were led down there after our meal to find it is just Zero's with a lick of paint , thought we were going for a quiet cocktail after our meal to be hit with a full on 'Ibiza Night' , walked straight back out .
Reply ID 61715
The downstairs has a bit of an identity crisis IMO. If it's a suave cocktail lounge, the music's all wrong. If it's a dance club, install a light rig and some bass bins, turn off the ambient lighting and crank up the bangin' tunes. One or the other would get my vote.
Reply ID 61722
quote:Er , thats what it was like when i went , you obviously didnt go on a Saturday night Shunt .[8D]
Originally posted by shunt
If it's a dance club, install a light rig and some bass bins, turn off the ambient lighting and crank up the bangin' tunes.
Reply ID 61724
quote:I feel a return visit coming on. Was a bit bright (in both lighting and audio) when I sampled it.
Originally posted by Donostiaquote:Er , thats what it was like when i went , you obviously didnt go on a Saturday night Shunt .[8D]
Originally posted by shunt
If it's a dance club, install a light rig and some bass bins, turn off the ambient lighting and crank up the bangin' tunes.
Reply ID 62113
Went last night with a few friends and their partners and had a good night. Thought the atmosphere was about right, music not too loud and lighting about right. Spoke to Luke who told me he was the bar manager and told him about the comments on here. He said that they try and have a bar atmosphere during the week and early on at the weekends and at about nine on a Friday and Saturday they turn the music up and lighting down when the DJ starts.
Reply ID 62207
Saturday night meal, following on to downstairs. The meal was outstanding for Hertford. Right portion size, excellent vegetables, good service. Downstairs just doesn't do it for me, I'm afraid. As a dance venue, it fails on too much light and a sound system which makes everything sound like it's on i-pod headphones (ones which are being worn by somebody else) or a station announcement PA. However, the level of the skawky mid-high only sound is enough to prevent the cocktail lounge function. It needs more than one semi-functioning bass bin, some basic and unobtrusive moving lights, which when off won't spoil the 'cocktail lounge' look, to bring it up to scratch. Having said that, there were a fair few in, so perhaps it's a case of why bother? After all, Number 11 did alright, (at least at first), with the worst sound system I've ever heard and kept on using it after all the speakers were blown to bits on the first few nights.
Reply ID 62230
Shunt, I will be going this Saturday to eat, (and to listen to the sound system !!) What did you have ? It sounds like they are getting the restaurant right
Reply ID 62231
quote:Started with a nice little tart[:I], then dry aged fillet of beef, followed by ginger rice pudding with sorbet and brandy snap. Others in the party sampled tiny little scallops, a super lamb shank and duck. Not one dish dissapointed and the forks continually passed across the table with invitations to "Try some of this!". Marvellous deserts, competent mixing of flavours and textures, and crisp hot vegetables. Don't be too put off by my comments on the sound system. Having installed a few myself, I know when it's wrong. Also since one of the tunes played by the DJ was studio engineered by one of our party, he also knew what that should have sounded like. Tough audience, eh?[;)]
Originally posted by jjr
Shunt, I will be going this Saturday to eat, (and to listen to the sound system !!) What did you have ? It sounds like they are getting the restaurant right
Reply ID 62233
quote:I reviewed the food elsewhere on this forum (told off for cross posting) and found it to be of a high standard. The steak was fantastic [:)] would go back for that alone [^]
Originally posted by shuntquote:Started with a nice little tart[:I], then dry aged fillet of beef, followed by ginger rice pudding with sorbet and brandy snap. Others in the party sampled tiny little scallops, a super lamb shank and duck. Not one dish dissapointed and the forks continually passed across the table with invitations to "Try some of this!". Marvellous deserts, competent mixing of flavours and textures, and crisp hot vegetables. Don't be too put off by my comments on the sound system. Having installed a few myself, I know when it's wrong. Also since one of the tunes played by the DJ was studio engineered by one of our party, he also knew what that should have sounded like. Tough audience, eh?[;)]
Originally posted by jjr
Shunt, I will be going this Saturday to eat, (and to listen to the sound system !!) What did you have ? It sounds like they are getting the restaurant right
Reply ID 62280
quote:Glad to hear they could cater for you, Shunt & you enjoyed your meal. When I asked they said couldn't guarantee the food would be totally gf [:(]
Originally posted by shuntquote:Started with a nice little tart[:I], then dry aged fillet of beef, followed by ginger rice pudding with sorbet and brandy snap. Others in the party sampled tiny little scallops, a super lamb shank and duck. Not one dish dissapointed and the forks continually passed across the table with invitations to "Try some of this!". Marvellous deserts, competent mixing of flavours and textures, and crisp hot vegetables. Don't be too put off by my comments on the sound system. Having installed a few myself, I know when it's wrong. Also since one of the tunes played by the DJ was studio engineered by one of our party, he also knew what that should have sounded like. Tough audience, eh?[;)]
Originally posted by jjr
Shunt, I will be going this Saturday to eat, (and to listen to the sound system !!) What did you have ? It sounds like they are getting the restaurant right
Reply ID 62283
quote:It wasn't. Occasionally I have a night off and accept the consequences. For me that's usually 36hrs of locked, knees and elbows, but for a really good meal, I'll sometimes just view it like drinkers view a hangover;-an unfortunate result of irresponsible indulgence.[:)]
Originally posted by Willowquote:Glad to hear they could cater for you, Shunt & you enjoyed your meal. When I asked they said couldn't guarantee the food would be totally gf [:(]
Originally posted by shuntquote:Started with a nice little tart[:I], then dry aged fillet of beef, followed by ginger rice pudding with sorbet and brandy snap. Others in the party sampled tiny little scallops, a super lamb shank and duck. Not one dish dissapointed and the forks continually passed across the table with invitations to "Try some of this!". Marvellous deserts, competent mixing of flavours and textures, and crisp hot vegetables. Don't be too put off by my comments on the sound system. Having installed a few myself, I know when it's wrong. Also since one of the tunes played by the DJ was studio engineered by one of our party, he also knew what that should have sounded like. Tough audience, eh?[;)]
Originally posted by jjr
Shunt, I will be going this Saturday to eat, (and to listen to the sound system !!) What did you have ? It sounds like they are getting the restaurant right
Reply ID 62318
quote:Well at least the food was worth it! I'm asymptomatic.
Originally posted by shuntquote:It wasn't. Occasionally I have a night off and accept the consequences. For me that's usually 36hrs of locked, knees and elbows, but for a really good meal, I'll sometimes just view it like drinkers view a hangover;-an unfortunate result of irresponsible indulgence.[:)]
Originally posted by Willowquote:Glad to hear they could cater for you, Shunt & you enjoyed your meal. When I asked they said couldn't guarantee the food would be totally gf [:(]
Originally posted by shuntquote:Started with a nice little tart[:I], then dry aged fillet of beef, followed by ginger rice pudding with sorbet and brandy snap. Others in the party sampled tiny little scallops, a super lamb shank and duck. Not one dish dissapointed and the forks continually passed across the table with invitations to "Try some of this!". Marvellous deserts, competent mixing of flavours and textures, and crisp hot vegetables. Don't be too put off by my comments on the sound system. Having installed a few myself, I know when it's wrong. Also since one of the tunes played by the DJ was studio engineered by one of our party, he also knew what that should have sounded like. Tough audience, eh?[;)]
Originally posted by jjr
Shunt, I will be going this Saturday to eat, (and to listen to the sound system !!) What did you have ? It sounds like they are getting the restaurant right
Reply ID 62456
Reporting back on Saturday night, We all had an excellent meal especially the chicken with mushroom risotto and the pork, the service was good and the house red is the best i have had for a long while especially as it is about £12. Didn't get down to the bar as by the time we had finished eating we were ready for bed, so didn't check out the sound system. We did pick up a leaflet for a set menu pie night,for tonight that we are going back for, two courses and a drink for £12
Reply ID 62504
quote:Thanks for reminding me! We went to the pie night (after being reminded on here) and thought it was very good (we just had the pie + drink deal). However, I had only seen the pie night leaflet on the table last week. It wasn't on the website and there were no signs outside the restaurant about it. In fact, a couple came in and left when they found out in was Pie Night and not the usual menu. I think they need to advertise it more, definitely a good mid-week treat though.
Originally posted by jjr
We did pick up a leaflet for a set menu pie night,for tonight that we are going back for, two courses and a drink for £12
Reply ID 62532
I agree that they need to advertise specials more. Out of interest what pies were on offer?
Reply ID 62535
quote:Steak and ale, chicken and leek, a vegetarian one which I think was mushroom and something ? All with either mash or chips and veg. Desserts were Trifle and chocolate sponge with chocolate and rum custard which was very good. Oh and a free galss of wine or a beer aswell
Originally posted by Boadicea
I agree that they need to advertise specials more. Out of interest what pies were on offer?
Reply ID 96548
We spent the evening in Deco last night for the first time. Was impressed with the acoustic night! Nice cosy place, friendly staff, superb value drinks. We will certainly be going back.