Bistro on the Quay — Restaurant in Ipswich

High expectations that fell super short. On arrival after ensuring we had booked the conservatory we got told the only table available was one right by the front door which was consistently in use due to people waiting for tables and to be seated. We were then told we could wait upstairs in the wine room for a table instead but we would have to check if it was open as it was closed for a private function earlier. We were provided a table in the conservatory which we were told was not available yet nobody had left the restaurant in this time. Beers were labelled at 660ml but we were provided with 330ml and told it was a typo on the menu. On ordering food we were asked to hurry due to the kitchen closing in half an hours time. No allergy requests were asked which my partner has a nut allergy. Whilst waiting for our starters the table behind us was provided with there starter in front of them which was wrong and sent back for it to then placed in front of ourselves. When questioned the managers response was she didn't touch it and deemed this as acceptable. On a fresh starter arriving of scallops and chorizo, I cannot complain about this as was amazing and very tasty. 2 burgers were ordered after much disappointment the ribeye on the bone for 2, shown on the online menu was no longer on it. We were asked how we would like our burgers cooked, either pink or well done. Both of us asked for pink. On delivery of our burger it was well done and when questioned once again, managers response was that's how our chefs cook it and some staff haven't been updated on this fact. On this fact we stated that a well done burger is not what we ordered she just walked away. Unable to finish the burger due to it being dry and lacking in moisture a pink burger would provide, although exceptionally hungry was just shrugged off. We were asked if we wanted dessert menus and when we said no was left for 15 minutes where 2 members of staff at different times removed vinegar and condiments, alongside empty drink bottles of the table with no interaction. On getting the attention of a waitress and asking for the bill it was clear there was no intentions of an apology. People around seemed to off been intently looked after and provided extras and seemed like these people were clearly regulars who are given more attention than others. This was noted by a few others who had entered the restaurant at the same time.

We went here with the amazing reviews and what seemed to be good food but apart from the scallops starter the food was sub par for the price and attention to details, customer service and general attitude was down right appalling. It could of been an evening of clear disaster as celebrating a Christmas meal together as a limited time available alone but we were able to laugh it off but no compensation was given or even a apology for the situation. Disappointed, and let down....

We expected so much from the bistro having had amazing experiences at the mariner's and the wine boutique it was a real disappointment. We had gone in on a Tuesday and ordered drinks and their raclette burgers. The drinks came quite quickly but the food took thirty minutes and we couldn't flag down anyone to ask. When it did turn up we were told sorry there was a problem in the kitchen. Unfortunately the burgers did not live up to the long wait. The chunky chips were thrown haphazardly on the plate and each of us had varying portion sizes , the burger was served open and the top part of the bun had a very lonely lettuce leaf and no sauce or mayo or anything and looked quite sad and when we flipped the buns over all three were burnt two of them were so black they were inedible.... The other half of the burger had sweetcorn relish in a less than appealing shape and colour and was a bit lack lustre. The half we had and the chips tasted alright but nothing amazing. When asked how the food was we mentioned the buns and we were asked if we wanted new buns but we didn't want to wait as we had already waited so long. Unfortunately we didn't get time for desserts as we had something to get to and service had taken too long. At the end of the meal when the bill came there was no further apology or attempt to make what was unfortunately a disappointing meal better. Hopefully next time will live up to the standard of Julian's other...

Myself and my fiancé enjoyed a celebratory anniversary meal here last night. The restaurant was welcoming and cosy with industrial style decor and quirky artwork for sale on the walls. The staff could not do enough for us as they waited on our every need. We were not left waiting for anything, receiving our drinks very quickly and having our orders taken promptly. The strawberry daiquiri I enjoyed was lovely and refreshing. We both ordered the beef burger which came with beef dripping chips and raclette cheese melted onto the burger at the table which was really impressive. I had my burger well done which I think may have affected the quality due to the meat being slightly dryer after being cooked longer, so would suggest to have the burger pink in future as my partner did and he said it was “delicious”. The highlight for me was the stunning dessert. I ordered the chocolate s’more which was one of the best desserts I’ve ever tasted. Cinnamon sable biscuits which were light and buttery, homemade toasted marshmallow which was sweet and fluffy, rich chocolate ganache and a cherry gel which added an extra level to the dessert. The staff couldn’t have done more to tend to us and I felt everything was very reasonably priced as well. We very much enjoyed our meal here and will definitely be recommending it to friends and family, and returning for future special occasions. Thanks very much for a...