I recently visited Meze Mangal in Chatham with a group of five friends (six adults total). I had been to the restaurant before, so I knew exactly what and how much to order – including a sharing platter that I knew would be enough for all of us.
When placing the order, I politely asked if we could substitute some of the lamb for chicken, since most of us preferred chicken. I even pointed out that this might save them money, as I wasn’t asking for more food – just a change. The waiter said it was fine and agreed to the swap.
About 10 minutes later, another staff member came over and began insisting that our order wouldn’t be enough for six people. I explained that I had ordered this before and knew it would be more than enough – in fact, we also ordered two bottles of wine, juices, and there was still food left over at the end of the meal.
Despite this, he continued to pressure us to order more food and questioned our request to swap lamb for chicken – saying they “usually don’t do that” but would “make an exception.” I had already said it was okay if they couldn’t do the change, but if they could, it would be appreciated. They never changed!? The whole situation left me feeling very uncomfortable, like we were being pushed to spend more money unnecessarily.
To be clear: the food was excellent, the restaurant itself is beautifully decorated and clean, and everything looked great at first. But the attitude and pressure from staff completely ruined the experience. We spent £210 that evening – not exactly a small amount – and still didn’t feel welcome.
Final thoughts: Great food, lovely setting, but very disappointing customer service. It’s really off-putting when staff push customers to order more food than they want, especially when we know our limits. Sadly, I won’t be returning – no matter how good...
Read moreI leave reviews but mostly positive ones , but I really felt instinctively to share my experience at this restaurant. Frankly, it’s just too expensive for Kent. The pricing here is outrageous, and there’s a sense that they’re taking advantage of the local community. Charging for a bread basket is one thing, but not informing us beforehand is another. In every other Turkish restaurant I've been to, the bread basket is complimentary, or ask for a proper bread in the in the menu. Here, they charge you £2.50, which feels incredibly cheeky.
And let's talk about the prices—I've eaten at places which were in the more expensive side of the town with higher rents, and they still manage to charge less. For example, £18 for two kebabs and some rice? That’s a stretch, especially when you consider the portion size was nothing to shout about. I’ve had better for less, even in central London!
As for the food itself, it was fine, but nothing exceptional. The kunafa was burnt and tasted off, and the virgin mojito was so sugary it was almost undrinkable. A quick mix of syrup and soda—it didn’t even resemble the fresh, tangy drink I was expecting.
The worst part was the salad, which came with a hair in it. It was replaced, yes, but really, that shouldn’t have happened in the first place.
I’m sorry to say, this place doesn’t live up to the hype. There are better, more reasonably priced Turkish eateries around Chatham. Save your money, folks. This one doesn’t...
Read moreAbsolutely ridiculous customer service experienced today. Ordered online 3 times before, the same driver has attended 3 times. I waited 1 hour 50 mins for my order and when the driver called to ask where my location was I was baffled and he seemed unsure of location?? The online order clearly show address details? If you can not understand online ordering or it’s difficult to navigate that, then maybe not do it. Last week you forgot part of my order which I called up about. I won’t be ordering from you again it’s more hassle than it’s worth. INRESPONSE TO TAZE REPLY The absolute lie, if there was any abusive language your driver would have refused delivery, and you would not have fulfilled the order. I have a witness in reception who can vouch that. If you lying makes it look better for your business, because it’s embarrassing for you that’s on you. Your driver admitted that you don’t check all details on online order, and told me I should have written my address down twice in the notes box? Your problem & error! Take accountability, taking 1 hour and 50 mins to deliver food is not acceptable and the driver lying he didnt know location considering he has delivered twice before and you are around the corner!?? lol Train yourself on your customer service,...
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