The Maltings — Restaurant in North Norfolk

Absolutely fabulous stay. Arrived Sunday afternoon for a 1 night stay, checked in and saw the lovely Sharon. Nothing whatsoever was any trouble. we even got a room upgrade which was lovely. Upon checking into our amazing room which had roll top bath and a huge separate shower and huge bed not to mention an upstairs with sofa and 2nd TV. Dog facilities were just as good, large quality bed, treats & bowls were also supplied. We offloaded our bags and then went to the bar for a few drinks. Service at the bar was excellent and there was a good choice of drinks. We had an evening meal booked in The Grain Store. Food was excellent. The beef in the roast dinner was superb. as was the rest of the meal and nice portion sizes too. After the meal we went into the lounge with some friends and carried on drinking cocktails. The coconut martini was very tasty. We also explored the hotel a little, some great artwork on the walls and the wine tasting room is something to explore on another visit, might also bring some of my own vinyl to play on the record player. Our stay included breakfast which I couldn't fault. Huge choice of pastries/cold meats/cheeses/juices etc then there was the hot menu too. Sausages and bacon were exceptional. The ladies in the breakfast were lovely to deal with unfortunately I cant remember their names. Our dog got fussed by all the staff and he was allowed everywhere within the hotel. not only that as soon as we sat down anywhere we were asked if he wanted water etc. very dog friendly. Really couldn't fault The Maltings everywhere had excellent finishing touches and you could really tell that a lot of money has been spent on this place. Couple of things I would suggest however, It was an exceptionally hot weekend (30+ deg C) and I feel the room could have benefited from air con, despite all the windows being open and a fan going all night it was still very hot, and also right above the bed every few seconds there is a really bright flash from an LED within the smoke detector which can be annoying. but this wouldn't stop me from staying here again or at one of the groups other hotels. We've already started looking and have downloaded the Chestnut group app....

This review is for the restaurant only as we did not stay at the hotel.

My wife and I visited the Maltings restaurant at the beginning of September. Wednesday evening, with two friends, for supper; also, on Thursday morning for breakfast with both friends, one of whom was staying in the hotel. We are all four extremely well-travelled folk who dine out regularly.

The renovation of The Grain Store restaurant has been carried out very well. the décor is good, and the ambiance is very comfortable.

Having seen so many glowing reviews, we were all anticipating a 5-star dining experience. Unfortunately, we were all left feeling dissatisfied and disappointed with aspects of both the supper and the breakfast.

Service at supper was mediocre at best, with scant attention from the waiting staff. My wife had to ask three times before receiving a replacement fork. Nobody came to the table to ask if we were enjoying our meal. We poured our own wine. There was no sign of a manager or Maître D.

All the above would be understandable at a budget-priced eatery, but the Maltings’ prices are right up with those of good London restaurants where service is generally impeccable.

While the food quality was generally OK, the trout portion sizes were truly miniscule. Both our friends commented negatively on this fact. My wife and I shared the lamb tagine, which was tasty and well-presented. It included harissa couscous, flat bread, Tzatziki and baba ghanoush. There was not however a great deal of actual lamb in the tagine, mainly the tasty sauce and fruit. At £75 this was not great value.

Breakfast likewise was disappointing. Our friend sent back his sausage as it was white and undercooked. The continental breakfast menu boasted “Norfolk charcuterie” which in fact consisted of a single chunk of hacked-about ham under a glass dome. There was only one cheese on offer. This was particularly disappointing as Norfolk is a significant producer of wonderful, cured meats and cheeses.

Would we return? No chance; there are plenty of keener-priced establishments offering great value and service.

Food 2.5 Stars Ambiance 4 stars Service 2 stars Value 2 stars Overall ...

This was the perfect little getaway for my partner‘s birthday. The room was beautiful. It was described as cosy but it was very spacious including a bath, shower, TV, dressing area with a Nespresso coffee machine and Smeg kettle.

All the details were thought about, the robes were a lovely touch. Biscuits left for us on arrival, with stocked tea and coffee pods. I love they provided insulated flasks with milk that you could grab downstairs rather than your usual UHT sachets.

The staff were so friendly and accommodating, but equally left you to it to relax. The bar and the “games” room downstairs was so nice, a stocked book shelf, chess, dominoes etc all in a very luxurious setting by a big open fireplace. I’m sad we didn’t get a chance to do the wine tasting in the wine room! But bar staff were great, served us even though we ordered as they were closing.

Location was great, quick walk down to the beach to catch the sunset most evenings. Short walk to the local pub The Ship Inn which we went to twice. Great staff and food there too! Easy drive into local areas; Holt, Sheringham, Cromer, Wells, Cley etc.

We had breakfast each morning which was great, quick and good portions. We didn’t eat in the evening so can’t comment, but the restaurant was lovely. We didn’t have the best weather otherwise we would’ve enjoyed sitting on the terrace or in the back courtyard area.

Can’t knock this place! New favourite corner of...