The Bank House Cafe — Restaurant in Northern Ireland

I enjoy my times at the bank, the atmosphere is so enjoyable. Everyone is treated with so much care and hospitality over and above a ‘job’. I have taken so long to write a review because I couldn’t put to words how I enjoy every time I go. The mushroom soup is out of the world closely followed by the salads. 🤗 A very happy customer

Absolutely—here’s an expanded version that builds on your original review while preserving its tone and message:

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I wanted to add to my previous review because every visit just reaffirms how special this place is. The consistency in service, the attention to detail, and the genuine warmth from the staff make each visit feel like a treat.

Whether I’m there for a quick bite or to unwind, I’m always met with the same thoughtful hospitality. It’s rare to find a place where you feel so genuinely looked after—like more than just a customer.

The mushroom soup still reigns supreme, but I’ve since tried more of the menu and it never disappoints. The salads are fresh and vibrant, and there’s always something new to enjoy. It’s clear that great care goes into every dish.

Thank you for making every visit memorable. You’ve created something...

Worst experience I’ve had in years

I honestly wish I could give this place zero stars. From the moment we walked in, the staff seemed annoyed that we were even there. The atmosphere was tense, not welcoming, and any attempt to ask a simple question was met with eye rolls and sighs.

In particular, the waitress with ginger hair was shockingly rude and unprofessional. She acted as if we were inconveniencing her by ordering food, gave curt one-word answers, and made zero effort to be polite. When we politely mentioned that part of our order was wrong, she didn’t apologise—she just shrugged and walked away. No one seemed to know what they were doing, all standing about and getting by paid to gossip with each other. The entire staff could clearly benefit from some serious customer service training.

The food itself was average at best, but the terrible service completely ruined the meal. I’ve never felt so unwelcome in a cafe, and we left feeling frustrated and disappointed. Save your time, money, and patience—there are far better places to eat where the staff actually care...

We live in Belfast, and haven’t been to Whitehead in an age (I bet everyone says this). We had a nice wee habit near 10 years ago of going to the Bank House every Christmas Eve as it was the wonderful antithesis of all that shopping madness. It was much smaller then.

There’s plenty of space here, and a good mixture of 2, 4 and 4+ seating.

The staff are really relaxed and friendly and the menu is nice and varied. I had steak pie and garlic potatoes and it was gorgeous, really tasty home cooking. Mum had soup and my wife had soda bread pizza. All served beautifully and were really tasty.

Good prices and of course the lovely shop and Louise in Lighthouse Yarn, too. Extra props to the friendly lady with Amber the cocker spaniel, the lovely chatty lady with the two kids (one that gave our daughter a hug goodbye!) and the member of staff that was incredibly understanding with our daughter who struggles with making choices and has food aversion.

Thanks folks we’ll be...