Marino's La Passione — Restaurant in Scotland

I came here a week ago with my sisters and we all ordered from the lunch menu which was not only very reasonably priced for a three course meal but with a lot to choose from. I had the prawn cocktail for starters and sea bass for the main course. When it came to dessert we were given a list of choices and I was hoping there would be my favourite Italian dessert Tiramisu... Alas they didn't have any so I opted for the lemon meringue pie which was lovely. The staff and the owner were all super friendly and very accommodating and so I decided to come back with my husband today. I had battered prawns with chilli dip for starters and lamb chops for the main course which were absolutely delicious. When the waiter came to tell us the dessert list the first thing on that list was Tiramisu! That was it for me, I didn't need to hear the rest of the desserts. When it was served, omg it was so beautifully presented it was almost a shame to eat it. I'm glad I did though because it was the best Tiramisu I've had. I want to say thank you to all the staff and the owner of Marino's for looking after us so well. It is a lovely restaurant with beautiful decor and authentic Italian music. Pure joy...

Surviving as a thriving restraunt in this town is no mean feat. At peak times you really need to book a table even though its a good sized restraunt. Can't deny its busy. Its a mix of work do's, girls nights, big family meals, dates etc. Dont expect quiet or sedate as it goes like the proverbial in here. Theres a big menu but the separate pre theatre card is what most gun for I'd reckon. Theres enough there for a handsome 3 courses...12 quid I think it was. Its relaxed too and the fixed pizza on the menu will be served with flexible toppings and the cut off time is a guide only. Expect cheerful service. Small kids will be subject to shoulder tap games from the waiters. Its a big L shape layout but quite open...so everyone will see you here....not for the shy. The walls have standard Italian ott decor. You can see the open kitchen beavering away. Other high brow places may offer you fancy expensive rare truffles or baby animals. I'd go here for solid pizzas and hard to fail tagliatelle etc. Dessert "trolley" not for those on a diet. Clearly a winning formula if that's what you're in the mood for. My kids...

I regularly eat at Marino's with my partner and never have any complaints. Sevice and food are always spot on.

Unfortunately the sevice last night was very disappointing. We had our order taken promptly, drinks, starters and main course all served to the usual high standard.

We then waited more than half an hour after our plates were cleared and had to ask for someone to take our order for desserts, not once but twice, before a waiter came to us.

This particular waiter was the only one on the floor at this time. He went round the tables, of what appeared to be regular customers, just chatting to them. He blatantly ignored my friends and I to our absolute disgust.

My friends and I all work in a public service environment and understand the importance of customer care. However this should not be to the detriment of other customers.

Our desserts arrived promptly and were all to the usual high standard that we have always had.

I will come back as I know this is not 'normal service' but, unfortunately, my friends will not be back. Not good first impressions for, what could have been,...