The Five Bells by Lussmanns — Restaurant in Dacorum

Our second time to Lussmann's but first time to this branch. We went here for our New Years Eve meal but do not live locally. To begin with I wasn't able to get a time for when we wanted, I contacted the manager, who was very helpful to look for a slot as well, he kept in touch via email, was very responsive and friendly. I managed to get a slot via OpenTable. We got to the restaurant and greeted so warmly by the staff and coincidently the manager was there, heard my name and gave us a warm greeting too. we were shown to our table, where there was a nice buzz in the restaurant but we were still able to sit, have a conversation, the atmosphere was great. We both had the mutton bombas for starters - I had these before, they are delicious and so moreish .... given I had these in a different branch, the taste was on par .... I could of easily eaten more! For main we were happy to pay the £8 supplement and both had the sirloin steak with chips and sauce - this was cooked beautifully especially as both my partner and I had it cooked differently, they came out together and were both still hot, the chips were cooked beautifully and the sauce again could not be faulted. It must also be noted, you could really tell the quality of the meat too - it supports the nature of sustainable and good food they emphasis in what they offer. For pudding - we both had the dark chocolate mousse - I am not a sweet person however I finished way before my partner - thats saying something! We ordered from the three course festive menu which was very reasonably priced, I can't emphasise the quality of the food, we like the fact that everything is locally sourced and sustainable maybe this is why the food tastes great. Our compliments to the chef! All other members of staff were friendly and helpful, would highly recommend...

This is our second visit to Five Bells by Lussmanns in Berkhamsted. We came back after a superb first experience, and were not disappointed the second time. The ambience is pitched just right for a romantic evening or dining with a couple of friends. I perhaps wouldn't go here with a large group for fear of spoiling the calm, sophisticated air of the place, but I guess that depends on who you party with! The staff are very professional and attentive. I love there is a small intimate bar area if you like an aperitif before being seated. The decor and comfort of the restaurant is wonderful. By no means least, the food...excellent, fresh ingredients and a very well thought out menu. We enjoyed the Thyme-roasted beetroot and potted crab to start, followed by the Label Anglais free-range chicken schnitzel and slow cooked featherblade of beef all of which was delicious. Portion sizes are not too overwhelming leaving enough room for desert - and thank goodness, or I wouldn't have experienced the honey and thyme pudding which really was outstanding. Nice wine list and I appreciate the option of carafe's when one glass won't do and a whole bottle would send me over the edge! Thanks Lussmann's! I had a fabulous birthday meal and thank you for the little birthday...

Oh dear - what has happened here... having been going for the last few years and every meal and service was superb (hence why we continued to go) last nights visit was a completely different experience. The ambience, staff, service and whole experience was not comparable. They seem to have rebranded to include more of a pub vibe with a beer garden which attracts a completely different crowd.. upstairs in the private dining room there was a crowd of people shouting and singing football type songs at the top of their voices - very annoying! The restaurant used to be packed every Saturday night now only a few tables were taken - obviously the changes you have made there are affecting your business seriously and you should revert asap to the 'old Lussmanns' - it is not working and we won't return if it stays as is sadly. There used to be the same staff for years but now they seem to have sadly moved on and the new crew do not compare - such a shame. Even a part from the front restaurant has been made into a pub area - you're going to lose so many diners but think this has happened already. This feedback should be used to put right these unfortunate decisions...