You only get one chance to make a first impression, and as far as Marcello's in Douglas is concerned, they failed miserably, on my first visit there I was looking forward to a nice meal with family, and although the menu's available offered a choice of Pasta dishes or Burgers, I decided to choose the first named, by dining Italian style. As a starter, I chose the Garlic Bread. When my portion of same arrived, it was two miserable looking pieces of extremely stale bread with a dollop of garlic butter on them. It tasted dreadful, but as I was being treated to an evening out, I did not wish to create a scene and hoped that my main course, Spaghetti Bolognese would redeem the situation. Unfortunately, this was not the case. I was served an absolutely tasteless dish of re-heated hard mince and spaghetti, which was completely devoid of flavour, and garnished with another slice of stale garlic bread. Again, as I was a guest, I refrained from commenting, but I was extremely disappointed and angered, that a substantial group of people such as ours, would be served with what can only be described as junk food. No chef worth his or her salt would serve up such rubbish. I knew looking at my companion's ( mostly pasta type dishes) that they were none too happy, but again as guests on a night out they did not complain either. I had enjoyed numerous meals out during 2022, and I regularly visit family, in the Douglas region of Cork, but I would be extremely reticent to return to Marcello's following this experience. The Owner/Management of this establishment should have a serious conversation with whoever was responsible for preparing and serving this dreadfully disappointing meal. They are not doing you any favours. As a regular reviewer of restaurants where I have dined, I always try to give a balanced and fair opinion of the premises, food and service. The restaurant was very well presented, the tables nicely laid out, and the staff on the evening were extremely welcoming, efficient, and child friendly, but regrettably, and most importantly, the food was unacceptably sub standard. Perhaps things will improve in...
Read moreAte here before, and the food and service were good. Went again tonight, and it was very disappointing. We ordered the spinach cannelloni and the meat cannelloni. The mince meat smelled off and tasted sour. I have never sent food back to the kitchen, but I told the waiter really politely, and they brought it back to the kitchen. The other waiter came to the table and maintained the meat wasn't off and that he tasted and "it was fine" and maintained there was no way the meat could be off becuase of how they prepare it and immediately freeze it. He said another was on the way, so I just went with it, but he was not at all apologetic. The second one came out, and the meat was definitely sour by smell and taste. To be fair, he came over to ask about it straight away, but I had to send it back. I initially ordered the veggie one but ran up after him to cancel it because I didn't feel super comfortable eating here, and he was clearly annoyed with us for thinking the food was off. We paid for the food/drinks we did have and left; we were polite about the situation.
Maybe it was an off night, but the waiter could've been more friendly about it, considering the fact the meat they served was actually off! We went a couple of years ago, and the food/service was great, but we probably won't...
Read more🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 An unforgettable Italian experience at Marcello’s in Douglas, Cork!
If you're looking for a place that instantly feels like home — but with the taste and elegance of Italy — Marcello’s is the spot! From the moment you step in, you're welcomed like family. The atmosphere is vibrant, warm, and full of charm. ✨
Now, let’s talk wine — absolutely exceptional! 🍷 Truly some of the best in the world. Every bottle tells a story, carefully chosen to pair beautifully with the food and elevate the whole dining experience.
And the food? Just wow. 🍝🍕 Every dish is a masterpiece. Fresh ingredients, authentic recipes, and a touch of culinary magic that makes Marcello’s a number one destination for Italian cuisine in Cork. You’ll be dreaming about that pasta long after you leave!
The staff? Simply amazing. 💖 Friendly, joyful, and passionate about what they do — they make every guest feel special.
Whether it's a romantic dinner, a night out with friends, or a family celebration, Marcello’s delivers excellence with a smile. Can’t...
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