Choose the Galleon Bistro after some local residents recommendations and also online reviews, and understanding that its not the same as it used to be, which was The Galleon Grill. A very nice decor and atmosphere which makes this a personal experience - we were seated at a central table akin to a breakfast bar with bar stools, we found this slightly odd & it also meant you couldn't stretch your legs out as you're off the ground. Would have been more comfortable at a standard table. It's a husband & wife team, with the wife being the polite/professional front of house whilst hubby is clearly a very talented cook. Although we arrived 15mins early for our 8pm seating, already they had run out of the half & whole portions of lobster as well as the beef ribeye plus there was only 1 portion of lamb fillet remaining. Was very disappointed to have missed out on the ribeye of local beef as this meal marked the end of our holiday and I'd been looking forward to a local, grass fed, organic steak :( Starters of: Pan fried scallops - perfectly cooked & gorgeous. Creamy burrata with apricot & toasted pine nuts. Main courses: Chicken breast on toasted fregola - amazingly succulent meat and amazing fregola, oh yes. Lamb fillets - cooked & seasoned to perfection. Puddings: Creme brulee - the rhubarb at the base was not a compote but small squares, which we found neither sweet/sharp and in our opinion didn't go with the brulee. Sticky toffee with salted caramel ice cream - this was decadence in a bowl. Ice cream actually had salt flakes within whilst the sticky, actually had sticky/chewy bits and was the stand out dish of the meal. With 2 Pimms and a Sanpellegrino the bill was £100.80 without any added service change (discretionary). Overall, a very nice meal with a few issues, but not sure it's worth another £20 more than a meal...
Read moreWow, cannot believe the positive reviews this place has. The server (owner?) had a bad attitude from the start which made us feel quite uncomfortable. Ordered a Corona from the menu only to be told they didn't have any. The fillet steak both had a huge lump of chewy, inedible fat in it and was cooked way rarer than the medium-rare ordered - this was grudgingly accepted back after the 'server' consulted with the 'chef' (her husband?) and a 'bad cut from the supplier' blamed - it's hard to accept the chef couldn't tell the cut was bad before cooking it, and we feel they tried to pass it off to us as tourists hoping we would just accept it and not complain. After a replacement alternate dish was provided (it was fine, if in no way outstanding, same with the pasta dish also ordered) and we had finished eating we asked for the bill and were instead handed packets of moist towelettes (?) and told to go to the bar when ready. Zero apology for the bad steak, no discount, not even our drinks comped, nothing. The whole experience was super uncomfortable. Neither the food nor the service nor the decor (laminated placemats, 'gift shop' art) nor the ambiance (loud generic music) justify the high prices charged here (£37 pounds for said fillet steak, £28 for a pasta). There's a reason the Tobermory Hotel down the road is packed every night (we ate there the night before and it was pumping) with both locals and tourists and the Galleon Bistro had only us and two other couples dining (neither of whom looked very happy either). Overall a super...
Read moreNestled in the picturesque town of Tobermory, the Galleon Bistro stands as a beacon of culinary excellence, captivating both locals and visitors with its exceptional dining experience. The mastermind behind this gastronomic haven is none other than Martin whose unparalleled expertise and innovative vision have elevated the bistro to remarkable heights.
Chef demonstrates an extraordinary ability to curate a menu that harmoniously blends traditional flavors with contemporary flair. Each dish is a testament to his meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to quality. The use of locally sourced, fresh ingredients not only supports the community but also ensures that every plate bursts with authentic taste and superior quality.
The menu offers a diverse array of options, catering to a wide range of palates. From succulent seafood dishes that pay homage to Tobermory’s coastal heritage to exquisitely prepared meat and vegetarian options, there is something to delight every diner. The chef’s signature creations, in particular, showcase his culinary prowess and innovative spirit, leaving patrons eagerly anticipating their next visit.
In essence, the Galleon Bistro is not merely a dining establishment; it is a culinary journey orchestrated by the exceptional talent of Martin. His dedication to crafting outstanding dishes with the finest ingredients sets a new standard in the gastronomic scene of Tobermory. For those seeking an unforgettable dining experience marked by excellence and creativity, the Galleon Bistro is an unmissable...
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