The Laneway Social, East End — Restaurant in Adelaide

Zero stars from previously loyal customers. We came to this restaurant in a group of 4 including my parents who have been business owners in the hospitality industry for years. We ordered 2 chicken tikkas (chef specials), a chicken schnitzel and a roast chicken meal. We waited 45 minutes for food to arrive, when ordering we asked how long the wait was and were informed that the kitchen was “quiet” and the wait wouldn’t be longer than 20 minutes. The chicken tikka was inedible, it was ridiculously salty. We informed a waitress called Claudia and my dad even asked her to request the chef to taste the food because in all our visits to this particular venue, the food had never been so bad. She did not take the plates away but said she would inform the chef. We waited 15 minutes for her to return and noticed she was completing other tasks around the venue. I went up to the counter to ask what the verdict was, she agreed the food was salty according to the chef but began to explain that nothing could be done as the food was “prepared the day before” in a batch so all of the chicken tikka meals would be the same. If she had spoken to the chef isnt it courteous to let us know? We had been waiting for her response and only after going up to the counter to speak to her did we receive an answer. I asked what food would be quick to make and was told that nachos and chicken schnitzel would be fastest. I requested to order one of these meals each (to replace the inedible chef special chicken tikkas). She took me to a counter to pay for these meals- I was expecting a refund for the previous chicken tikka meals but this did not happen. The chef had agreed with the error so I figured maybe the waitress had mistakenly charged me. When I questioned this, she immediately became defensive and began to explain how all the food that is served must be paid for as this somehow relates to the venue being owned by a larger group? I then explained that the food is not edible… as a customer we cannot eat the food on the table and while the venue agreed the food is not edible they are refusing to compensate? What? The waitress explained that she is limited in what she can do, I politely asked if there was someone else I could speak to. This entire situation took around 15 minutes and the food is still left in front of my parents with our other meals going cold. She rolled her eyes and said “yes that’s what I’m saying, I’ll go and get my manager”. When the manager arrived I explained the situation and she agreed that the meals would be refunded and I explained the situation I had experienced. She started to explain that they are often hesitant in situations like this as apparently customers say similar things then eat their meals expecting a free meal… this is honestly so offensive as when we initially warned the waitress my parents had barely touched their food. We were expecting it to be taken back to the kitchen and thrown in the bin immediately as this is what is done at any decent hospitality venue if the food is deemed not edible by the customer (AND CHEF!). I fail to see the logic of this being a thought in their mind as the food had barely been touched! I also explained that we frequently visit the Belgian beer cafe and have never had an issue with the food in the past. Whilst I was speaking to the manager the waitress came to the counter with my parents meals and said “yep it’s all good”, as though we really were “seeking a free meal”. I am absolutely appalled and so disappointed in the treatment of my family tonight. The manager then came to offer our table a round of free drinks. This upset me so much, I felt humiliated as I realised they had suspected that we were simply seeking free food instead of genuinely identifying an issue with our food. I truly believe that maybe if we didn’t have brown skin the waitress would not have been so falsely suspicious. Clearly this is a huge issue that requires systematic changes on so many levels, but attitude is everything. What a terrible way to treat customers. This has upset my...

Our club recently paid a visit to this bustling Belgian style bistro. A lively fringe crowd mingled inside and out, while the dining area had a more subdued and spacious atmosphere. The wood panelled interior, though purely cosmetic, certainly transported me back to the inns and taverns of Europe.

Our party started with an assortment of cocktails and beers. The president of our society noted a touch of lipstick on his chalice of Stella Artois. No doubt an admirer from the bar. We ordered an array of traditional Belgian dishes and contemporary pub food. However, there was some confusion about who had already place their order and unfortunately our president was missed, resulting him having to approach the counter to make his request. This was the beginning of a series of errors and miscommunications with our dinner party. It should be noted that our visit was occurring during Adelaide’s bustling fringe time. The restaurant was clearly already overcapacity, so with that in mind they were certainly doing their best to stay on top of everything.

We received two plates of the fried brie, one of which was suspiciously hollow, perhaps a cheese leakage. A beer ordered on the QR code menu was actually sold out but was kindly replaced with a beer of same or greater value. The mains arrived next, kicking off the Great Steak Debacle of ’22. Three members of our club ordered steak dinners. Two ordered a topping of prawns - surf and turf if you will. However, only one steak with prawns arrived. A confused deliberation began, concerned with what cut of meat each had ordered. A suggestion of garlic prawn confused for pepper corn was made, further adding to the mystery. Eventually discourse turned to action and while the mystery was never truly solved a side of garlic prawns was ordered. Unfortunately, by the time those creamy shrimps arrived, the steak was cold… On a more positive note, the mussels were an absolute stand out with broth so good you could drink it by the glass!

While there was plenty of confusion the food and drink were well received. The overall experience was what I would describe as chaotic good. Had this not been during fringe time this restaurant may have scored 4 stars. However, I can only go off the experience of the night and award Belgian Beer Café 3.5 stars. Since google only allows whole star ratings, and Jacob Maher rounds down, this...

My partner and I recently had the pleasure of dining at the Belgian Beer Café in Adelaide for lunch, and it was nothing short of an exceptional experience. The café offers an authentic Belgian gastronomic adventure, right in the heart of Adelaide.

I decided to indulge in the Rump Steak with Garlic Prawns and Greens, a selection that could easily falter if not expertly prepared. To my absolute delight, each element of the dish was expertly prepared and was simply fantastic. The steak was cooked to perfection, boasting a tender succulence that was enhanced by the rich garlic prawns. The greens not only added a splash of colour but also provided a fresh balance to the dish, making it a meal I thoroughly enjoyed.

My partner, on the other hand, opted for the Belgian Burger, a decision that turned out to be equally satisfying. This burger was a symphony of flavors, with the beef cooked to juicy perfection. It was the embodiment of Belgian culinary excellence, transporting us to the heart of Europe with each bite. It's certainly a dish that we'll be craving in the future.

Beyond the impressive fare, one of the most charming aspects of our visit was the atmosphere. The ambiance was vibrant yet relaxed, ideal for a weekend lunchtime getaway. The warm, congenial chatter surrounding us created a welcoming environment that truly elevated our overall dining experience.

We were particularly struck by the congeniality of the staff. They were exceedingly pleasant and committed to making our experience smooth and enjoyable. Their top-notch service was noteworthy, and it was clear that they took pride in their roles, leaving us feeling well-looked after from the moment we stepped in.

Our visit to the Belgian Beer Café was much more than a simple lunch; it was a delightful journey. With its delectable food, charming atmosphere, and commendable staff, this is a place we're eager to return to. If you're a fan of Belgian cuisine, or if you're simply in search of a fantastic dining experience, we can't recommend this café enough. We're already excited for...