BabilOddfellows Restaurant — Restaurant in Colac

I had to think a lot before writing this review as I really do like it here. The food is great and I could see the man running the show for the day on sunday (serdar wasn't present) was doing his very best. But the service was very poor. I have experienced it before when i have come to the restaurant, the one man looking very stressed doing all of the work and not being able to get back to us after our meals were delivered for more drinks or dessert. The 2 young girls working yesterday were just running food out with 0 personalities. No smiles no how was your food, no would you like anything else. You could see they would have rathered to be anywhere else. One reached her arm in front of me abruptly, whith no word while I was eating to take an empty bottle. We were given hummus dip with no bread, we waited 5 minutes or more than decided we better ask, the girl just walked off and came back a bit later and dumped bread on the table. We were charged extra for the bread too when on the menu it said bread was included with dip. I could see how stressed and flustered the man taking all the orders, seating people, making drinks and coffees, organising desserts, taking peoples payment was. It stressed me just seeing him this way and wishing that someone would give him a hand. It frustrated me that the 2 girls looked like they didn't want to be there and weren't trying to do more to help. Granted they really needed another person working but I still think they could have had a better attitude. I saw sticky date puddings served with no cream or icecream, which I thought was very strange. We weren't asked if we wanted any other drinks or dessert. Someone else i was with facing the kitchen saw the man grab one of the girls arms and looked like he was telling her off. I know staffing is an issue all over due to covid but maybe those 2 girls need a bit more training or something to spark them up, was sad to see. Was a shame that the service really effected our experience. I will be back, but i will give them some time before i return to improve...

What a wonderful time we had at babil yesterday. Having been a few times before I no longer stare with mouth agape at the obvious history of the interior of the building but I do enjoy it just the same, and I am sure any first-time visitors will delight in it. I was pleased to be allocated a table the front of the building where light streams in the windows and although I have read it before, I could again take pleasure in reading the history of the group called the Oddfellows. Having been there recently and taken notice of other diner’s food orders I knew exactly what I was having this time after evaluating the decisions of those on the table next to us last time. The Babil Mix Grilled Platter for two was an absolute must. It had looked delicious and had resulted in positive comments and adulating moans. I committed not to make their mistake of not ordering anything to go with it, and decided correctly a Garden Salad would be a perfect accompaniment. Having seen the neighbouring diners add some of their leftover dip to their meat I decided a dip should be added to my order yesterday. I did discover it was not necessary as the meat was tender, tasty and juicy, however the bread and dip were highly desirable in their own right. The pleasant companionship of a group of young senior ladies, nearby diners, added to the impression this is where interesting people come to take part in fine food or meet for coffee and cake. Service 10 out of 10, food 10 out of 10, atmosphere 10 out of 10 fresh fruit juices...

I must begin by highlighting the exquisite heritage-listed site that houses Babil Oddfellows, enhancing the overall atmosphere with its timeless beauty.

The staff exhibited unparalleled politeness and attentiveness, always ready to assist with any queries about the food. Whether it was promptly replenishing our water jug or serving each dish with a genuine smile, their hospitality made our time truly warm and welcoming.

Now, let's talk about the culinary delights: from an array of homemade dips to the incredibly flavorful saganaki cheese and an unforgettable Turkish spring roll, every dish left an indelible impression. For our mains, the solo mixed grill (kofta and lamb cutlets) and perfectly cooked beef ribs showcased tenderness and culinary expertise. The scotch fillet, cooked to medium perfection, delighted my partner, and the potato gratin side was a shared favorite.

To conclude our feast, we indulged in the heavenly knafeh, an Arabic sweet that left us yearning for more.

After savoring each bite, I sought out the chef, who, as it turned out, was also the owner—Serdar. Complimenting him on the exceptional flavors, I was thrilled to witness the pride he takes in his food, evident in every plate served.

In summary, the impeccable service and divine culinary offerings at Babil Oddfellows earned a well-deserved 10/10. We're eagerly anticipating our return. Thank you for curating such a remarkable...