The Secret Garden Bistro — Restaurant in England

Concern to share after first visit. Food great. Staff great. Decor great. Was not aware pre-visit of the 'kennel' branding this restaurant has. (The wooden carved 7ft high dog by entrance should have been a huge clue as to 'dog friendly' hotel and restaurant status.) Never been to a restaurant positioning itself at top end, with London prices that allows/encourages dogs into the restaurant with their adult companions. Best left outside for the benefit of all guests ? Dogs don't understand they have to be quiet and not beg for titbits in a public restaurant. Most restaurants understand why animals don't need to accompany owners into a restaurant, ambiance hygiene etc. Over heard one dog owner telling a non-dog owner, and loudly, in response to a reasonable request to leave their dog outside, "if you don't like it don't come here". At one point in our meal there were more than 8 dogs by their owners tables. Not sure what benefit if any the dogs were getting? When the dogs inevitably start reacting to each other, and barking, it is uncomfortable and and distracting, not conducive to a relaxed meal. Just be aware if you are not familiar with this brand of environment. Dog owners don't appreciate how non-dog diners feel in this situation or indeed any, they just say, "oh they are ok". There was a doggy aroma hanging in the air which again the dog owners wouldn't notice, but others trying to enjoy their evening do... Not sure this combination of fine dining and kennel works, for the dogs or non-doggy guests...just the egos of doggy owners we suspected! Maybe an Egon Ronnay assessor...

We were looking for a place for breakfast after camping nearby, we found this beautiful little spot and walked into the restaurant where a lady greeted us and asked if we were here for breakfast and told us to take a seat wherever we like. They then came over and asked if we would like coffee or tea and poured us a cup. We noticed that the menu didn't have prices on and there was breakfast up at the bar so when she came back we asked if the breakfast is only for people who stayed at the hotel. She then gasped and put her head in her hands and said 'oh no, you shouldn't be here!' then went over to speak to the manager. We felt very embarrassed and awkward and offered to leave but the manager came over and said it was fine- very accommodating after that but wish it had been more clear online or when we came in that you can't just walk in for breakfast. Other than that the food was very tasty and the views were beautiful in such a lovely location. I imagine sitting outside in the summer too would be lovely! Would definitely pop back if in...

This restaurant has suddenly decided to force all customers to eat Vegan ! It's NOT sufficiently signed, and after ordering a steak baguette, a chicken burger, and two lattes it was , to say the least, a shock to be served plant based versions, and latte made with oatmilk I tried my best,the taste wasn't too bad, but the bland gooey texture was distinctly unappetising, and I couldn't finish it The prices (never cheap, but acceptable for the excellent food they served up until a week ago !), seem to have remained about the same It's a real shame, but the "eat what we decide, or go elsewhere " attitude, does not sit well with me, and I and my friends will not be returning It seems unreasonable to be unprepared to offer the customer (who in this case is clearly NOT considered to be always right, or indeed to have a different opinion to the management !) A CHOICE as to...