Scotts Richmond — Restaurant in London

I’ve been to the Ivy several times but my experience at this branch was a shock that almost brought me to tears. The staff embarrassed and belittled me in such an unprofessional manner. The way I was spoken to, was as if I had done something wrong which I hadn’t. I even spoke to a manager I believe his name was Steve and he was so aggressive and dismissive in the way he spoke to me. I came in for a drink at the bar after having a lovey dinner at Scott’s round the corner and because I was having a lovely night and googled what time they closed I knew I had enough time for a drink. I got into the Ivy at around 9:45pm today and spoke to a guy who worked there and asked him if I could have a seat as I wanted a quick nightcap. I specifically told him it would be just 1 drink. He went to check and came back and told me it was ok, I then gave him my coat, went to the loo and came back to the bar. I asked the lady at the bar if I could order a drink and she said yes and gave me a menu. As I was reading, out of nowhere the manager approached me and starts saying they can’t serve me and that they are closing. I was really confused because I knew I saw 11pm close. I asked him can I not get just 1 drink and he said no. I was really upset by this interaction and later after searching online to double check I see that they do in fact close at 11 I asked to speak to speak to him again. He then started dismissing my explanations and saying that it’s down to his discretion to serve me, I told him he was coming across aggressive and he apologised but then continued to be aggressive. His apologies were not even genuine and the whole interaction was very combative as he had clearly made some type of preconceived idea about me so I just said ok. I’m sure he only spoke to me the way he did because I’m a young black woman, as I find it hard to think he would talk so disrespectfully to a white older man or woman. It was one drink, I was having such a lovely day and wanted to continue treating myself. I started recording myself talking about the negative interaction because I was so confused by it, to me it wasn’t that big a deal so there had to be more to it. They made the mistake of letting me in after they had stopped taking walk ins but I was already sat and comfortable how is 1 drink that big of a deal. I had not done anything wrong and to be treated the way I was is extremely rude and disappointing. They had people in the restaurant at the time who all would have seen how he spoke to me, I’m not a trouble maker but was made to feel as if I was one. I guess after he saw me recording my video he then told the bartender to make me a drink which I obviously refused. After all that fuss and the way I was made to feel it was too little too late. It just goes to show that he could have let me have that drink. He did come back to apologise when I was waiting to get my coat to leave, this time actually sounded genuine but the damage was done. The apology although sounding genuine this time was as a result of me recording and refusing his drink. I don’t need a free drink I’m very capable of buying a drink, it’s the lack of decency and good customer service to all customers regardless of what you think of them. Not that it should even make a difference I wasn’t dressed inappropriately either. This review is extremely long as I am writing this on my way home having just left the restaurant. I want to make it clear I’m not wanting rules to be bent for me but I was on track to get my drink and if a mistake is made I’d expect in this scenario as I was sat down and told I could have the drink it should have been fine. I’m clearly still upset but will not be going to back and will be sharing...

Nestled in the heart of Richmond, Scott's is a culinary gem that takes diners on an unforgettable gastronomic journey. From the moment you step inside, the warm ambience and attentive service set the stage for an exceptional dining experience.

Starters: The char-griddled tiger prawns are a true delight for seafood lovers. Grilled to perfection, they showcase a tantalizing blend of flavours from tangy tamarind, fiery jalapeño, and refreshing lime. Each bite bursts with a succulent juiciness, leaving a lingering smoky sensation on the palate.

The seared scallops in the shell are a work of art. The delicate scallops are perfectly cooked, boasting a buttery tenderness. The fragrant Thai green butter adds an exotic twist, infusing the dish with aromatic herbs and spices that transport you to the streets of Thailand.

For those craving crispy delights, the tempura prawns are a must-try. Each prawn is encased in a light and crispy batter, creating a satisfying crunch. Paired with the spicy cocktail sauce, the dish strikes the perfect balance between heat and flavour, making it a delightful appetizer that leaves a lasting impression.

The ricotta and sun-blushed tomato tortellini is a symphony of textures and flavours. The pillowy pasta is filled with creamy ricotta and sun-blushed tomatoes, while the ripped burrata adds a luxurious touch. The basil garnish adds a refreshing note, completing this dish that showcases the finesse of Italian cuisine.

Mains: The grilled Dover sole is a showstopper. The sizable 16-ounce fish is expertly grilled to achieve a smoky char that enhances its delicate flesh. With each forkful, you savour the freshness of the sea and revel in the simplicity of perfectly executed flavours.

The fillet of hake is a revelation. Served with romesco sauce, the hake is moist and tender, while the charred courgette and salsa verde elevate the dish with their vibrant colours and enticing aromas. Every bite is a celebration of Mediterranean flavours, leaving you longing for more.

The roasted shellfish for two is a seafood lover's dream. A grand platter adorned with lobster, scallops, and tiger prawns, all generously bathed in garlic butter. The seafood is impeccably cooked, ensuring each morsel is juicy and succulent. This dish is a true feast, perfect for sharing and creating unforgettable moments.

Dessert: To end your meal on a sweet note, the cinnamon doughnuts are a heavenly treat. Served warm and dusted with cinnamon sugar, they are irresistibly fluffy. The accompanying chocolate sauce, raspberry sauce, and passionfruit curd add layers of decadence and tanginess, creating a symphony of flavours that dance on your palate.

Scott's Richmond is a culinary haven that excels in creating memorable dining experiences. With their exquisite starters, sensational mains, and divine desserts, every dish is a testament to their dedication to culinary excellence. Prepare to be enchanted by their skilful execution and delightful flavours that will leave you longing to return for more.

Thank you Milan and the team for their...

Good food, terrible service.

When we arrived at a reserved time (on my mother's birthday) they didn't have table ready on time and told us we have to wait 5-10 minutes. After we complained, 1 minute later they somehow had a table ready (clearly was for someone else, which was extremely dishonest from the staff).

After we were sat down, and ready to order, we had to ask to order food twice, before someone came to take our order.

In general the food was tasty. We ordered sashimi, salmon tartare and another 2 dishes for starters. They were very tasty. For main, the four of us ordered a deluxe seafood platter each (that's £200 for mains alone). The crab, clams and oysters were very nice. Unfortunately, there was sand and grit in the whelks and clams. Whelks were also very rubbery.

Also, the prawns were not cleaned out. Some contained a very dirty intestinal tube. When I called the restaurant manager, I asked whether they clean their prawns, to which he replied "Yes". I then pointed to my dad's plate, which contained a disgustingly dirty prawn filled with black intestinal grime. The restaurant manager took away the dirty prawn and took it to the chef. He then came back and explained that they only clean the prawns for their prawn cocktail, but not for the seafood platters. This is completely unacceptable for a restaurant that positions themselves as a seafood restaurant - I have been to much less expensive restaurants that clean out their prawns for every dish. To add salt to injury, the restaurant manager did not even bother to bring a replacement prawn.

We then ordered the yuzu desserts. They were extremely delicious, and on par with some of Rosette/Michelin restaurants that we have eaten in. The flavour balance was spot on - just the right amount of soft sweetness and tartness.

The last kick in the face was when we paid the bill. One of the restaurant managers brought over the card machine, and did not turn away when my dad was typing in the pin. He was directly looking at my dad typing the pin, which I think is extremely rude/impolite.

Additionally, we expected some kind of congratulation from the staff considering that it was my mother's birthday (as we saw that another table with a birthday person were brought a dessert) - this did not happen.

I believe the only person that salvaged the service was a very attentive Mongolian lady, who was always keeping our glasses full and ensuring everything was okay. We forgot to catch her name; however, if the tip was optional, we would have ensured it all went to her.

All in all, 4 for the food (would have been 5 if not for the sandy shellfish and dirty prawn tubes), and 1 for the service.

Considering that we spent over £350 on the dinner, we should have not had to deal the incompetencies that we...