The food here is top notch 10/10 and the portions are decent, but the service ruins the whole experience every single time. I came here many many times and tried many different dishes, I used to bring family members when they visit me in Bristol, this place has been my #1 choice when dining outside and it's very sad to say I'm not coming back, I don't even know where I will find such good food elsewhere, throwing myself off a building is easier for me than having to deal with this waitress again.
When I came with my sisters months ago on Feb 9th we sat down and discussed what we wanted, then we ordered but she told us it wasn't available, so we discussed again and chose other things only to be told again that they were not available.. she knew them by heart and didn't have to go to the kitchen to know they were not available, which was weird cause she could have told us from the start but we didn't comment.. then she leaves and comes back after 2 or 3 minutes and literally says with a straight face “sorry guys you need to order..” and while the 3 of us looking at each other with confusion as to why we need to order right now.. we kindly asked for a few more minutes as if we were violating some rules or doing something wrong.. the only reason we had been sitting there for 15 minutes without ordering is because we tried to order twice but were told it was not available.. and this was around 4:15 pm with all the other tables empty.. so why the rush? That was so embarrassing for me cause I recommended my sisters to go there for lunch.
But I didn't give up and the food quality keeps bringing me back, I came with my fiancé a few days ago on Oct 12th, same awkward treatment, same forced smile, after eating she came to the table with the payment device when we didn't ask for the cheque.. which was very strange like saying get out of here, I said oh sorry we still wanted tea for both of us.. and while I was saying we need one with milk and the other without, she raises her hand interrupting me and saying “yes yes..” and literally walking away while I was speaking.. Utter disrespect! Then my fiancé went to the counter and kindly told her it is one with milk and the other without, she replies with a smirk “is there anything else you want so that I can bring them all at once?” then a minute later I headed in to wash my hands and could hear her nagging to one of the chefs “and they want tea now after two hours” and that was the last straw for me, even if the food is free I'm not coming back to be treated like this and get embarrassed with my family members for bringing them here, it's such a shame that this superb food quality is ruined by such weird attitude, she thinks work is being paid while sitting on a chair scrolling on her phone! There was only one other person in the restaurant and we asked for the tea around 10:00 pm which is way before closing time so there's really no reason for this attitude! Every time I come here she would give this (don't make me work) vibe.. and yes she did come and go many times cause after the food was ready we asked for individual plates cause we weren't given any.. then I asked for salt cause there was none on any of the tables.. none of which was my fault..
I would like to note that none of us, my fiancé, my sisters or myself had a rude response or reaction, but were always smiley, keeping it normal and not showing that we felt uncomfortable, I'm just saying that all her actions were her own and not reactions to a poor treatment from our side. I miss the time before the restaurant was sold when waitresses were genuinely kind, and realised that being able to occasionally sit down and use the phone was the exception not the...
Read moreI recently dined at Damascus Nights, and it was truly an enchanting experience. The restaurant specializes in Arabian cuisine, and it's a hidden gem for food enthusiasts. The ambiance of the restaurant was enchanting, with warm lighting and Arabian-inspired decor that transported diners to a different world. Soft Arabic music played in the background, creating a soothing atmosphere that enhanced the dining experience. Whether you were there for a romantic dinner or a family gathering, the setting was perfect.
The lamb meat at Damascus Nights deserves special mention. It was incredibly tender and bursting with flavor, a true testament to their culinary expertise. The aromatic spices used in their lamb dishes were a delight to the senses. The menu at Damascus Nights offered a wide variety of Arabian delights, from classic dishes like Shawarma and Hummus to lesser-known specialties like Mansaf. The extensive selection catered to different tastes, including vegetarian options that were equally delightful. Each dish was beautifully presented, showcasing the chef's dedication to both taste and aesthetics.
The Mendhi rice was another highlight of the meal. The delicate blend of spices and herbs infused into the rice created a mouthwatering accompaniment to the lamb. Each forkful was a journey through Middle Eastern flavors. One of the standout moments of the evening was the presentation of traditional Arabic tea, served in ornate glasses. It was a perfect conclusion to the meal, offering a subtle sweetness that balanced the rich flavors of the main courses.
The cleanliness of the establishment was remarkable. The entire restaurant exuded an air of hygiene and attention to detail, from the spotless tables to the well-maintained restrooms. This enhanced the overall dining experience. Moreover, the portion sizes at Damascus Nights were generous, ensuring you left with a satisfied palate and perhaps even some leftovers to enjoy later. This made it a great value for the quality and quantity of food provided.
The staff at Damascus Nights were exceptional. They were not only attentive but also genuinely friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. Their recommendations added to the authenticity of the experience, making me feel like I was in the heart of Arabia. In terms of service, the staff at Damascus Nights were not just attentive but also knowledgeable about the nuances of Arabian cuisine. They were happy to explain the ingredients and preparation methods, making it an educational experience for those less familiar with this type of food.
In summary, dining at Damascus Nights was an exquisite journey into Arabian cuisine. With its inviting ambiance, diverse menu, generous portions, and knowledgeable staff, it's a restaurant that stands out for both its food and overall dining experience. Whether you're an aficionado of Middle Eastern cuisine or simply looking for an adventure in flavors, Damascus Nights is a culinary gem worth...
Read moreIf you're craving authentic Arabic cuisine in Bristol, AARAN Restaurant and Desserts is the place to be! From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with a warm welcome that set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience. The Lamb Mendi was absolutely incredible—flavorful, tender, and perfectly cooked. The portion sizes were generous, and the price was incredibly reasonable considering the quality of the food.
The desserts were the perfect end to a perfect meal—sweet, delicate, and just the right amount of indulgence. We also enjoyed some delightful tea that complemented the entire experience.
What truly stood out, though, was the outstanding customer service. The staff were attentive, friendly, and genuinely eager to make our experience memorable. The restaurant itself was spotless and had a clean, refreshing atmosphere that made the dining experience even more enjoyable.
I wholeheartedly recommend AARAN to anyone in Bristol. Whether you're a fan of Arabic food or just looking to try something new, this restaurant should be at the top of your list. I’ll definitely be returning, and I look forward to bringing some friends along to share in this fantastic culinary experience!
No parking though so park on the near by street...
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