BEAR Ashbourne — Restaurant in Derbyshire Dales

I will start this review by stating it was the first Friday night opening but there were some inexcusable issues listed below

2 hours from table booking time to be served At least 20 minutes for drinks to make it to the table from ordering Not being asked how the food was Empty glasses and plates being left on the table after fresh items being delivered No apologies for delays on drink or food

So I will get into the actual evening, we arrived and were seated in a timely manner from this point onwards I can describe the evening as waiting for anything and everything. We ordered drinks whilst waiting for friends. For non alcoholic options they are very limited to pretty much an over priced can of coke not even able to order sodas or cordials. The beer was good and cocktails were flavoursome the down side was having to go find someone to take the order waiting 5 mins for them to turn up to take the order and then waiting 15-20 minutes for the drinks to turn up. The menu looked appetizing with dirty fries and the promise of loaded tacos and stacked burgers. What was eventually served after a 2 hour wait was a disappointing tray of 3 small tacos with limited filling and overcooked cooked chicken, the chef has obviously never seen loaded fries as they served a small bowl of chips with a drizzle of sauce and a couple of pickles thrown on top. I do wonder if they had gone out to buy the ingredients during our wait as it should not of taken two hours to cook what was served.

I think the management need to take a long hard look into how they failed to support the new staff on opening night with guidance to keep things flowing and customers happy. I honestly feel sorry for the staff as I could not see a manager in sight supporting what should be seen as a failure of an...

Latest Bear Ashbourne review

Since our last review the Bear has had over 1,000 hits on this Google which is massive. Huge outreach.

This saturday, far better table planning was visible and it's not only full, it's rocking. The customer view of the Chefs Galley area adds an endearing touch. Staff motivation and Client processing is excellent although it may need a possible second till as queues start. Brunch meals are good.Very! Creative and nice touches. It was buzzing and rocking like a top New York Deli. Tourists will love it. A HUGE Town Asset. Tourists Go to the Bear. Fourth review in 5 weeks but it's needed. Great team synergy.Well done all. I have restored star ratings right back up again as now deserved. Very good staff, well needed in the town. Good luck this season. It's already getting a massive loyal following. This Bear will get your heart beating. A lovely cafe. Sharp knives are needed for some of the offerings. This is an excellent start. Ashbournes premier cafe. Great coffee, great everything. Hatti be proud. All of you. Great for Ashbourne.This will really motivate the Tourists to spend in the town. Everyone...

Popped in here for coffee and breakfast recently.

The coffee is excellent. A rich roast which, for me, produces the perfect cup of coffee.

Breakfast was good too. But.

I think they need to be sure they have the portion size and price point right for their “Full House” breakfast.

The sausages were excellent, although both were chipolata sized.

The bacon was quality too although my two streaky bacon slices were not the biggest – any smaller & I would have called it mean.

And one poached egg.

On a breakfast entitled “Full House”. Hmmm.

The other items were fine – although for me the shakshuka pot doesn’t work on a full English. The cumin jars. Better, I think, to stick with baked beans.

The pea shoot garnish was nice although too much can seem like camouflage rather than a garnish.

The price point was/is £13.40 which is certainly the fullest price I’ve paid for similar recently.

I’ll certainly be back for coffee and breakfast.

Here’s hoping for a chubby sausage(s), a fatter pig and a...