Zebu Bar & Restaurant — Restaurant in Port Macquarie

On the last Saturday of January, we dined at Zebu to mark the end of our holiday. Evening started off as usual, greeted at reception. Ordered drinks (which were great) to start off, and the waitress took our orders for food after that. That's where things started to go downhill. Ordered entrees, mains, and a bottle of wine with table water. She didn't repeat the order as what we expected from past dining experiences all around to start off. Entrees came after a reasonable time (15ish mins). After finishing, the main course came after 25 or so mins. However, between finishing entrees and mains being served, the entree plates and some finished cocktail glasses were not taken away despite the staff being active in welcoming other guests and walking around, we felt a bit disregarded relative to other guests. Mains came, and only then did another staff member - who was stationed at the front the whole time - come with the main plates and then made the effort to take our starter plates and glasses. Mains were very good, no issues there. Throughout this, the wine originally ordered never came. After our plates from mains were taken, another waitress (who didn't take our order) asked if there was anything else needed, where then I brought up the wine issue and said for that to be cancelled. Our water throughout this whole evening was never topped up until the very end when I asked. Even then, my own empty glass wasn't filled, only my wife's. At the end of our time at Zebu, the initial ordering waitress came by, and I explained to her our experience so far. She said she'll inform her manager and soon after the gentleman from the front, who was the supervisor that evening, apologised and added a discount to our check. I explained to him as well what happened and being someone who's worked in the same industry for many years, and also knowing what the Rydges reputation in general is, being of a higher standard, I was extremely underwhelmed with the service. He was very nice and genuine during this interaction. I thanked the chefs at the end for their hard work but told them about the service issues, which they acknowledged. That ordering waitress never came around to top up our water, but did so for every other table (all but 1 table was occupied) as per our observations. Once I asked for the check, the waitress stopped pouring water. (At any bar or restaurant with alcohol, water must be available) The F&B director was also spotted speaking to the supervisor as we left. I had to take 2 glasses of water from the adjacent bar just to have something to drink after the first glass and cocktail. Finally, I told the restaurant to call me as my number was on the reservation records. No one called me until I, just before this post was written, called them myself after 1 week, where I was told that due to staff shortages that shift, they were undermanned, but the F&B director Patrick never apologised during the call, saying no one told him to give me a call. He cut the line at the end to add insult, I didn't feel he genuinely wanted to speak to me. Overall, there were fantastic food and drinks which were enjoyed, but very underwhelming service which soured...

Zebu Bar and Restaurant in Port Macquarie offers a dining experience that seamlessly marries culinary excellence with stunning waterfront views. My recent visit left me thoroughly impressed with its vibrant ambiance, delectable cuisine, and impeccable service.

The moment I stepped into Zebu, the modern and chic decor caught my eye. The restaurant's open layout and expansive windows provided unobstructed views of the picturesque Hastings River. The combination of sleek design and the soothing sight of water created a truly inviting atmosphere.

The menu, a testament to creativity and quality, featured a diverse array of dishes that catered to a variety of tastes. From fresh seafood to sumptuous steaks, each plate was a masterpiece that celebrated local produce. The attention to flavors and presentation was evident in every bite.

The standout moment was undoubtedly the seafood offerings. The freshness of the oysters and the succulence of the prawns were a testament to the restaurant's commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients. The fusion of international and local flavors was a delightful journey for the taste buds.

Equally remarkable was the service. The staff's attentiveness and knowledge of the menu were exceptional. They guided me through the options with enthusiasm, ensuring my preferences were met and any dietary concerns were addressed.

What truly elevated my dining experience was the waterfront view. As the sun began to set, the golden hues danced on the river's surface, creating a tranquil and magical ambiance. It's a setting that transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary memory.

Zebu Bar and Restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it's a destination that captures the essence of Port Macquarie's coastal charm. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a romantic dinner, or simply seeking a memorable culinary experience, Zebu offers an exquisite blend of flavors, views, and hospitality.

My visit to Zebu Bar and Restaurant was an exploration of taste and aesthetics. It's a place where impeccable cuisine and waterfront elegance converge, leaving a lasting impression that beckons me to return for another remarkable...

Awful. Went for dinner on Saturday night after making a reservation for 7pm which wasn't confirmed with any phone call or SMS. Was shown to our table and after waiting 10mins without any of the staff coming to take our order, we asked to be served. A few minutes later a waiter came over and took our order of fresh sourdough bread and butter for entree, a lamb dish from the specials for main as well as a medium fillet steak. Together with duck fat kiplers and some mac and cheese for sides. We didn't order any wine but our glasses were not taken from the table.

After 40mins our bread arrived (which was cold) but we ate it due to working up an appetite from the wait. The next time our waiter came to the table and others around us was to tell us each individually there there was some delays in the kitchen and whilst he was there he took the plate the bread was on, leaving our side plates and not offering a top up of water.

Expecting a wait we sat patiently for another hour before we saw our mains and sides arrive.

The lamb wasn't hot and had obviously been sitting a while The steak was cold and cooked medium/rare which I sent back and waited another 15 minutes for what I originally requested. If I am being completely honest the steak was closer to well done but by this point I was too hungry to care. The potatoes were not hot enough and The mac and cheese managed to be congealed underneath some unmleted cheese on top. Without doubt the worst mac and cheese I have had in a restaurant. Did not eat it.

When paying the bill (which was on the expensive side $40+ for the mains) this was all mentioned and we received a deserved refund but I also left my details with the waiter so this feedback could be given in private the Head of Food and Beverages at the restaurant. It shouldn't be surprising to learn that I didn't receive this phonecall or the chance to give this really poor feedback without the need for a public review on Google.

Maybe this will have someone take notice though and avoid more poor experiences for other diners in what could be a much better establishment with some extra staff and...