Eighty One in North Down

I am a regular visitor to this venue. In the past food was always tasty. Service was better. In recent weeks service has gone downhill--and it is no longer as welcoming. Also food not as tasty as it used to be !!??

This was a former 4 star review from me. But in my recent visit I ordered an americano and german biscuit. It was around 4pm. The coffee was disgusting, and obviously instant. I drank it as I had the distraction of the biscuit I was offered a top up and was given the same dross.I went to the counter and asked why I was served instant coffee. The server and girl on the till both admitted it was instant reasoning at that time of night they had no fresh pot coffee. Reputation is everything. 81 have none in my opinion.

We’re just home from a family meal at Eighty One and WOW! Really enjoyed every minute and every bite. The steaks were amazing, my husband, son and I thoroughly enjoyed them. Our younger son loved the double bacon cheese burger and our daughter really enjoyed the kids pasta dish. The staff couldn’t be more helpful and very friendly to our young daughter. Made us all feel extremely welcome and served a truly amazing meal. Would highly recommend Eighty One to anyone. 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Great place that had a buzz about it. The COVID protection measures were good and clever pull down blinds that made you feel safe but part of a buzzing atmosphere. Food delicious , we had hot stone steaks and wine selection well priced but fab range. Desserts looked good if I had only room after steak !, service team lovely and attentive. Well done team 81

This is my first time doing a trip advisor review but after my recent visit to 81 in holywood really wanted to share what a great night and fantastic food we all enjoyed. We visited on a Friday night and it was our first night out since the easing of lockdown, I was quite apprehensive about it but with the all the additional measures in place I felt really safe and happy with the environment. I throughly enjoyed my steak with garlic chips and already planning my next visit. Thanks 81 xx

Had an amazing meal in Eightyone. The steak on the stone was first class with a choice of sides and 3 sauces for you to enjoy with your meal. Béarnaise was my favourite!! The staff are phenomenal and can’t do enough for you. Most importantly Eightyone have taken all the necessary steps to keep their customers safe during these worrying times with staff wearing protective face shields, protective pull down opaque screens between each table and not to mention the huge bi folding shop front to allow the air to circulate. These owners care about their customers! Well done Eightyone!!!!

First place we went out after being shielding from the start of lockdown. We couldn't have picked a better place, felt safe as they have all the covid safety precautions in place. The service was 2nd to none and food was great, we couldn't go passed the fillet steak cooked on the stone looking forward to coming back and doing it all again. Thanks 81

81 has been adapted to provide the greatest confidence to the most anxious coronavirus visitor and staff are just wonderful...everyone is so pleasant! Today I enjoyed the best ever warm cherry scone with ‘proper’ fresh cream and an extra hot latte Returned later with a friend for a glass of draft guinness in the sun. Im so delighted to see the town coming back to life again and a smile on everyones faces. Well down 81

A visit to Eighty One is a must, whether you live in Holywood or are simply passing through. It is always my go to should I have friends coming to Holywood for lunch. The menu selection is fantastic and the food is truly delicious.The cafe has a very relaxed vibe and friendly staff. Also a good place to pop in for a cup of coffee or a wine! I would highly recommend.

We’ve had so many bad meals lately that we haven't reviewed anywhere in a while – it just gets depressing writing how awful places are, and people thinking you're just a grouch who’s impossible to please. So our visit to 81 today came as a very pleasant surprise.First impressions usually come from the coffee. We had Americanos, which were strong and flavourful. As with so many poor meals, I’ve lost count of the number of weak insipid cups of “coffee” I’ve had in endless penny-pinching establishments. These were good.Our meals were delicious – beyond criticism. And you don’t hear me saying that very often. Unfortunately, in all the excitement I forgot to note down exactly what they were called, so that you can all rush in there and order them – but I would assume everything from that kitchen would be of the same standard. You either know how to cook or you don’t…As best as I can describe mine, it was a ciabatta stuffed with chicken, chorizo, sautéed peppers and onions, and came with a little bucket of chips (particularly good) and some green leaves. I didn’t leave any.My companion’s meal was open ciabatta, with chicken, crispy serrano ham, leaves, parmesan etc. Again, sorry to be imprecise – we were just too busy wolfing everything down. I’ve taken a picture though, so you can play Catchphrase and just “say what you see”.Highly recommended.

I popped in here for the first time after my morning pilates class. I had a lovely cuppa and a german biscuit. It was quite busy with groups of friends having either breakfast, lunch or a cuppa with a bun or cake.Service at the table was excellent. They had free wifi which was handy. Will go again.

Came here today with our daughters for a light lunch. Service was very good and food came quickly, was well presented and tasty.

A busy lively cafe with tables outside. Efficient, friendly young staff. Excellent menu with great variety of breakfast items. Food served promptly, well presented. Will definitely return. Great value.

Had a lovely breakfast fry, everything cooked to perfection and non greasy. Great coffee. Served by Chloe who was friendly and attentive. Another staff member, Erin, had to deal with a difficult complaining customer and she handled it in a professional and friendly manner. My pal and I were impressed. Cafe clean and tidy. Would recommend this cafe for food, coffee and staff. Next time we are in Holywood we know where we will be eating.

We took our grandchildren for lunch. We had a super waitress, very attentive. Omelettes are just delicious!! Huge burgers with large homemade chips. The kidaccino went down a treat with our youngest who followed it up with icecream. Super place.

Arrived for a quick brunch and the restaurant only had a few diners. We had great fresh orange juice, coffee and chai tea latte while we checked out the menu.Maybe it’s our age (say nothing !!!) but at an adjacent table there was a child playing really loud games and/or music on its mother’s phone which was really inconsiderate to other diners and it did disturb the usual ambience. Thankfully, this noisy family left soon after our food arrived.Erin, our waitress, was very knowledgeable, telling us about the specials of the day, but we weren’t tempted and instead went for the classic - an omelette and the 81 Benedict (with my habitual request of cremated crispy bacon). Unfortunately the poached eggs were a little over done this time, although everything else was delicious, particularly the omelette with spinach, mushrooms and feta cheese. The accompanying toast with cream cheese was a welcome extra addition.....#TheGourmetBoys #niblogger #nibloggers #nibloggerbrunch #enjoyfood #goodfood #foodie #foodblog #foodblogger #eatingout #belfastfoodie #BelfastBites #DiscoverNI

Popped in here for lunch a few weeks back. Lovely atmosphere, very busy and really great lunch time menu. Staff were extremely friendly and helpful, nothing was too much trouble. Food was very fresh, tasty and competitively priced.I have recommended to colleagues and returned since for coffee. Highly recommend local establishment!

Visited this cafe for lunch on a Monday. On entering the cafe we were warmly greeted and immediately shown to a table. Two of us had the all day breakfast and one eggs benedict. All the meals were freshly prepared and were served hot. Service was excellent and very friendly. Would visit again.

Fantastic breakfast, complimentary juice. Very nice little restaurant. Food very good. Staff very friendly. Would definitely recommend it.

Best burger iv ever had!! Food is fantastic, atmosphere is great and the staff are amazing!! Looking forward to getting back!!!

Fabulous for Sunday brunch. Great service! Like to visit at least once a month,mostly for Sunday Brunch, but have also had lunch which is excellent value. Cocktails are primo!

We had a private Thanksgiving Dinner here and introduced my American family to my new Ireland family. They made us feel wonderful and went all out. We included a cocktail masterclass for the adults and a mocktail for the kids. It was a hit! The owner was easy to work and did special requests to make it feel like home. Price was great.

While staying locally we wandered down to the High street for breakfast & chose 81. We are so glad we did! Breakfast was outstanding, with lovely choices on the menu. My mushrooms on toast came with two perfectly cooked poached eggs on top & spinach under the mushrooms I was asked what I wanted instead of the bacon which I don't eat, & I chose extra mushrooms!! The fry had the option of toasted or fried soda bread as well as a potato farl, all the usual items, and apparently the best of the best black pudding! So much so that my husband asked where they got it! Along with a complimentary orange juice, excellent coffee, & friendly and efficient service, we were really impressed & will definitely be back next time we are in Holywood. Thank you, you're the best, so you are!

Come here quite regularly with my other half and I’m never disappointed excellent food brilliant service by friendly staff. Cobb salad excellent penny pasta one of my firm favourites

I was here with friends and family just before Christmas. The manageress and the rest of the staff looked after us very well, the food and drinks were exceptional. I look forward to our next visit..keep it up as we enjoyed it big time

Called in on Friday 21st with my uncle. Was so impressed from start to finish. The young girl who served us was called Chloe(I asked her name at the end) was outstanding. She greeted us warmly even though she had several other tables to attend to. She worked through everyone’s orders and no one had to wait any time. Drinks were brought swiftly followed by our delicious food. She worked calmly and professionally through every table she was serving. I feel strongly about writing a review when excellent service like this is given. She is a real asset to your business and hope that you can let her know. We live in Bangor and will definitely return the next time we are in Holywood. Thanks Again and keep up the good work

Absolutely love 81. We live in London and when we come back to stay with family we always make trip to 81 for breakfast. Such a tasty breakfast. Staff so friendly and nice. They are great with kids as well - offering to make them any small version of the menu. They had kids portion of the pancakes - so nice! Everything freshly made and you can definitely tell. The owner even brought us down extra coffee at no extra cost. Such a fab cafe. Wish we had one like it near us!! But it’s always a treat to visit.

Visited this lovely little restaurant on Thursday night with some American friends to celebrate thanksgiving. Cannot fault the meal we had and the way we were treated. Will definitely be back.

Had lunch today I’m eighty one. Service was, as usual, Fast and efficient and Food was tremendous. Don’t waste your money on a Fast Food takeaway lunch. Eighty ones burger will not be beaten! Oh btw the sweet potatoes fries are amazing!!

I've been coming to 81 on occasion for years. The food is second to none. I highly recommend their pasta of the day, the one in a cream sauce was to die for and even came accompanied with bread sticks which was a fantastic touch that just finished the dish off perfectly. The service is great and although they can be very busy at times, the staff are always very polite, friendly and helpful even when they're having to run around like headless chickens! Eighty One really is a little gem and it's nice that they have maintained the same high standards and quality of food ever since they first opened. Well done 81 and keep up the good work. As always, I will be back.

I'd not been in "eightyone" ever since it was formally Café Kina several years ago and its been on my radar for a visit for some time as I've been in most of Holywood's coffee shops over the years. The staff were friendly enough, however the food was rather mixed - a bagel option was very greasy and the teapots and cups frankly were not particularly clean - the rims and spouts of the teapots had easily removable tannin stains (some damp baking soda…) and the cups needed a wipe as well. My own sandwich was fine - not exactly packed with flavour, but it did the job. The décor is a bit tired and the chairs have seen better days with the faux leather badly damaged by the studs of jeans over the years and it does detract from the appeal of the café. It could have been better. Service was fine and staff responded quickly to requests.

Had a tasty lunch few weeks ago but breakfast recently was disappointing. Porridge was very stogy and although the menu said it came with honey and sultana's it didn't. I had to ask for these after it was served. Also we asked for hot water and pouring cream with our coffee, hot milk arrived twice and no hot water. The cafe was lovely and the young guys serving were so pleasant but either they did not listen to what we asked for, or the chef did not read the order properly. We will however give it another chance.

Had my hubby's surprise birthday here last night. Absolutely perfect for the occasion! (30 guests).

Dropped in to meet with a friend on a Tuesday morning, which was quiet. All the same, the service was very good and scones and cream to die for!! Great laid back atmosphere made for a successful handover of a drawing I completed for this friend...… excellent!

Always enjoy Sunday morning coffee & scones @ 81. Excellent, friendly service by staff who remember our order. On a sunny Sunday no better way to start the day.

We happened to find this gem on a visit to a holistic centre nearby. The food was amazing ..and the strawberry smoothie served in a very glamorous giant Gin glass was divine! The staff were very helpful and happy. I will make sure I visit here again...I can only say good things about the food, service and Coffee here!

Lovely food, nice surroundings, great beer. Waiter very courteous. We spoke to other customers, so there was a nice friendly vibe. Everything was reasonably priced and delicious.

The missus and I popped in for coffee and ended up getting a full lunch. So glad we did. Service great, coffee great, food great and most importantly cool vibe. Give it try

Have had breakfast and lunch at 81 a number of times. The menu is extensive with plenty of choices and excellent value for money portios sizes just great, Service is always very good and staff are really friendly always service with a smile. i had poached eggs spinach on sourdough bread yummy , and they serve the best omelettes chicken and chorizo mwas his choice loved it. I have no problem recommending this beautiful bistro to anyone

This review relates to the one below by Lauren C.

Was there today with a friend and whilst we had a lovely lunch the place was very busy with only one girl waiting at table. As a result we necessarily had to wait quite a while. The girl was very pleasant but had a nearly impossible task to attend all tables.

I can’t praise Eighty One highly enough!! I was having a surprise engagement party at home for my daughter and her fiancé but didn’t want the hassle of cooking food over Easter. So ordered a selection of hot and cold food from Claire (nominee for restaurant manager of the year) She went through the menu comprehensively with me and I had the option to change my order at any stage.

My family have been frequenting this restaurant for years now and after the last time we won’t be back. We stayed for most of the afternoon and spent upwards of £150, however the service was absolutely appalling. The waitresses were apathetic and generally sullen throughout the afternoon, however the manager was the worst. When we paid the bill she squabbled with me over a cup of tea that I had actually already paid for. When we tipped her directly she didn’t thank us and literally rolled her eyes (tip clearly not enough?). We left straight after and stood outside the door to say goodbye to family members. My father and I looked back into the cafe manager was shouting, gesticulating towards us, obviously ranting about us. If I hadn’t have been with my elderly grandmother I would’ve knocked on the door and told her to say it to my face. An absolutely disgusting way to be treated after years of loyal service and an afternoon of money spent. Will never be back in here and I have made sure to tell all my holywood friends about this incident. Do not go out for the afternoon to be treated in a way in such a bizarre, aggressive manner.

bacon, eggs, avocado, hollandaise sauce on a toasted muffin! absolute yum! also do traditional breakfast and great lunches.

Had breakfast here and found the restaurant a bit cramped . There are definitely too many tables, as its hard to move in the place and tables are definitely too close to your neighbours. The food was ok but a bit pricey. Still enjoyable enough

After moving to the area a few months ago this beautiful, friendly and welcoming cafe has become a firm favourite. Great value for money, warm and comfortable surroundings, friendly staff with an obvious passion for hospitality and fantastic customer service. 100% recommend!

Called in for fry and a pot of tea.

We rented the place out for a party. We put down a £50 and pre-ordered hor d'oeurvers for 50 people....

Thought my partner and daughter would try this place as we had 40 min to kill before we headed to...

It is a nice place with Irish ambience to dine. I had the best Irish breakfast with black pudding, soda...

Just before we arrived a party of around ten arrived unannounced for breakfast. The staff handled this with aplomb while...

After a shocking morning at work I decided to go into Eighty One for my lunch. I already know they...

Actually came here with my mum because Homebird was full and really glad we did. My mum had crispy bacon...

Buen servicio, pero la comida es muy pobre. Tock macizos de sopa de verduras como zanahorias agua 'sabía había sido duros, sin aderezos de ningún tipo. Bistec en la escritora era difícil. Aceite para las patatas fritas podrían haber hecho un cambio.

Teníamos un vuelo temprano a Irlanda del Norte, así que no tuvimos desayuno, entramos en Holywood y disfrutamos de nuestro desayuno aquí, tuve huevos escalfados con aguacate con tostadas, muy sabroso, mi marido tenía desayuno irlandés completo, ambos disfrutamos. Lugar popular, hacen sus propios bollos y pasteles que se veía preciosa. Tenemos ganas de ir allí de nuevo si en la zona.

We decided to have my dad's surprise 60th in Eighty One, and we made the right choice. The restaurant itself is very clean and spacious. The food was really tasty, and there was a lot of choices on the menu. Claire, the manager was great from start to finish, she really helped make the whole night run smoothly.. I can't thank her enough! Highly recommend Eighty One for any type of event.

A must for an early morning coffee and delicious freshly baked scone with cream and jam. Outside sun trap all day.

Promptly friendly service and our sandwiches and tea were fresh and well presented, lovely surroundings.

Good service and friendly staff. Best Moroccan orange drizzle cake ever and the salt and chilli fries are great

Good range of foods available when I visited early morning - enjoyable scones and tea. Nice surrounding with friendly staff.

I went for brunch today with my partner, the food was ok maybe slightly tight on the portion size.. we shared a chocolate orange cheesecake after and it had so much gelatine in that we could not get the fork into it, it felt like rubber, we showed it to one of the waitresses and they shrugged it off and blamed the fridge for the texture.

Other than maybe getting a bit more food in your fry for the money, I can't fault anything. Very friendly staff, great service, gorgeous food that isn't greasy and lovely latte. I would absolutely go again

My husband and I are regular visitors especially for breakfast on a Saturday - great menu choice and food quality is excellent. One area management may like to address is the welcome customers receive - most staff are very friendly but a couple of front of house staff are very sullen and don't even smile when you come in - come on Eighty One - you have a lot of competition in Holywood & you are already ahead on the food stakes so step up the welcome!

If you can get in early enough for a cherry scone well done, I've only managed it once and it's worth it.Their coffee is really nice and tray bakes also a highlight.

discovered this friendly little coffee shop recently , fantastic eggs Benedict , friendly and efficient staff in a very relaxed atmosphere , can definitely recommend !

Just go and have the scones. They are huge. Have them warmed with jam and cream and a glass of Matcha tea. That's all I need to say.

The most engaging service I've had in a long time. Great team and really good product too...nice range of soft drinks, coffee nicely served and brownie flavours were well balanced.

Had lovely lunch with my husband today. Service efficient and friendly. Yummy smoked salmon salad with poached egg etc.Good one 81.

I love this wee place.I started working in Holywood recently and found this gem on the main road through the town. The service is second to none. Really. I had a fry, and being the awkward get I am I basically had meat and bread, not being a fan of mushrooms, beans, eggs or tomato (I know, I know...) BUT my awkward request was gleefully received and pandered to.I do love this place :)

I am a frequent visitor to this cafe/restaurant and have always had a good experience (the brunch is amazing!) but the staff excelled themselves this week, when i held my daughter's 6th birthday party in the private function room at Eighty-One. The room is great, food delicious and the manager and staff could not have been more helpful or accommodating. Thank you...we plan on coming back for next 15years!!!!

Had been before and wasn't impressed but decided to give it a second chance. Bad Mistake! Was there with my husband and sister for breakfast before my mothers funeral and although there was only one other person in the place We were left sitting so long I had to go and ask a waitress if someone could take our order. She was extremely huffy and in fact rude and said they were training! I apologised for interrupting her and even this did not improve her approach! I really hope they included some customer service in her training . The food was quite poor and this coupled with such bad manners means they won't be getting any more of my custom. Too many other cafes in the town with nicer food and more pleasant staff who appreciate business.

Lovely surroundings and a nice atmosphere. I had a beautiful chicken salad which was a generous portion. The staff were very friendly and welcoming.

My wife and I went walkabout in Hollywood on a lovely Autumn Sunday afternoon. We looked for somewhere to have a test and a coffee and found Eightyone. The decor is modern, the staff welcoming, the coffee good, and the homemade German biscuits and Brownies excellent. We will definitely be back.

Terrible experience. ... I have tried this place twice now and was disgusted both times. If you are a couple .. you are herded into tables for two. All larger tables are reserved for four persons ... comfort doesn`t count .. they are only interested in the number of persons they can squeeze into the place. VERY poor service. Even if the restaurant is half empty (as it was on both occasions) .. your are not allowed to sit where you want.The owners of this cafe should realise that customer comfort (and an enjoyable experience) is just as important as their greed to fill every seat. I certainly won`t be back and I will definitely not recommend it to anyone else.One thing I did find amazing is they have a certificate on the wall to say they are finalists in a `Cafe of the Year` award ..... I find this VERY hard to believe !!!!!!!

Had a lovely lunch here. It's a beautiful place to sit and watch the world go by. Delicious food at a good price. Friendly staff and nice decor. One of the nicer places to eat in holywood. Would strongly recommend it.

Popped in for a lunch time sandwich. When I asked for a menu I was given a list of plain ingredients - ham,cheese etc. It would have been nice to have had a pre-thought selection or inclusion of some lunch time specials like pulled pork etc. When I asked what types of cheese were available I was told cheddar or goats cheese. Opted for a ham and cheese sandwich on granary bread. The sandwich was served in a plastic container with no condiments or napkins which did not reflect the high price. When I queried this I was told it was because I had selected goats cheese and not the cheddar. The sandwich, whilst full, was boring and over priced. I won't be back. This is a pity as the cafe has the opportunity to attract a bustling array of local office workers in the town centre who just want a tasty takeaway at a reasonable price.

Great lunch yesterday at Eightyone -all 3 of us had the delicious chicken, cheese, chorizo on ciabatta with THE most delish chunky chips - gorgeous!!

Nipped in for lunch for a change, as I call in for a takeaway coffee most days and fancied trying their food . I had combo Soup/sandwich which was delicious. Soup was pipping hot and a very tasty sandwich. My daughter had a goats cheese bagel which she said was amazing. My husband also had soup which he thoroughly enjoyed. Staff couldn't have been more attentive! I would say give cafe 81 a try and you won't be disappointed. I Will be eating here more often

Popped in for a bite of lunch. Staff were friendly and pleasant. We had the chicken and chorizo sandwich and BLT, both went down a treat. We will be back. Thanks

Visited at lunch time, son / father. Really busy but very attentive, prompt and pleasent staff. 2 mains, Home made burger (10mins cook time) with chips, burger was full of flavour and taste ( according to my son) but chips would need reconsidered. I had pasta, bacon and mushroom main, fresh, creamy, loads of cheese, creamy, lovely, just what was needed after a good mornings hard labour. Both mwals felt healthy as well as satisfying. This was a treat to be savoured at around £19:00 for both mains. So, would recommend and will visit again for sure.

Had the best breakfast here with loads of tea. Very nicely cooked and presented. The staff were very helpful and friendly. We have not been disappointed each time we have been here.Can't wait till the next time.

Popped in last Sunday for lunch ...It's was clean and friendly food was of good quality but tasteless and over priced ( appreciated holywoods rent and rates are probably a rip off )Mushroom soup tasteless and one small piece of wheaten bread , but two knobs of butter .. MmmmmmBut/ triple decker wasn't a great looking sandwhich and didn't taste of much either .One small bottled water £13:45 a bit expensive also for what we purchased in my opinion £10 would have been more than enough inc a tip ..

Décor not to my taste but ok. Food here is basic so it is difficult to ruin it. However, what I had was tasteless. Service was terrible.

This was the first evening party that I had attended at 81. The staff were extremely friendly and helpful and the drink prices very reasonable indeed. Good parking outside the venue and easy taxi pick ups. Overall a great venue for a party of around 40 to 60 people! We will be back!

We dropped in to Eighty One on Sunday afternoon and were pleasantly surprised. The staff were really friendly, loved the decor and the coffee was great! We ordered mint aero cheesecake and it was delicious - worth a try. We will definitely be back again for another chilled Sunday!

Good spot for families. Staff were prompt, polite and very good with the kids engaging in conversation despite being quite busy. Goats cheese bagel was divine.

Five of us arrived here for Sunday brunch. No booking, no problem. Food was very good, service excellent. Five happy campers, especially when the bill arrived. Under £50. Well done !

Had lunch here. Small venue but quite quirky and comfortable. The menu isn't extensive but everything seems to be freshly prepared and my pasta dish was delicious! The staff were attentive. Service was quick and prices were reasonable. Would recommend for lunch.

This is a great restaurant, café, place to meet friends.The food is good, interesting and comforting while also stylish.Service is good.I've often hosted my Conversation Cafes here - and the feedback from my Café members is delight with the coffee/tea and gorgeous traybakes.Whether meeting in a large group, or a more personal connect with a girlfriend, this is a great place to do it.

I have been meaning to review this little treasure for quite some time now but as always I get caught up in the busy world of work! I've eaten tapas, pasta, breakfast and scones here several times now and after my today visit I thought I really must get around to doing this. So today I opted for the leek and potato soup which was so tasty and nutritious. It had a cheeky little "spicy thing" going on which did wonders for my fussy palate. Compliments to the chef as usual. This place also offers a great choice of beverages including herb teas and there's a mixed fruit one which is delicious and usually served with a strawberry and blueberries on the side - gorgeous! The scones are so beautiful and tend to sell quickly as they've become quite well known, my favourite is the cherry but to be honest they're all totally fab. Staff are so friendly and can't do enough for you. Eighty One is very clean, modern & comfortable & if you're lucky enough to be there when the weather is good, it's lovely to relax at an outside table on the sunny side of the street. All in all, I just can't fault this little treasure

We had tried this cafe about 3 months previously & received stone cold chai lattes that were subsequently reheated to the point of scalding.However on the basis that everywhere has a bad day, we popped in on a Saturday afternoon for a snack. This time our chai lattes had all the flavour of hot water with a cinnamon lozenge dipped into it, the kids had hot chocolates that would have been great if they had not been cool, together with armour plated chocolate brownies. I complained & they refunded the cost of the lattes, but the absence of customers at 3.30pm on a saturday said it all. Doesn't the owner care?This area is crammed with lots of cafes & coffee shops, I find it hard to see how this one will survive the competition.

We had a private party at Eightyone over the Christmas period. My wife and I had gotten married overseas, but we wanted to have a celebration with family and friends that couldn't make the trip. We had about 60 guests and the venue was perfect for this. We had full access to the whole place, so it was great to have the whole space to ourselves. The venue is decorated to a very high spec inside and overall the evening was great value for what we wanted to offer. The canapés and drinks we had were really well served and everyone commented on what a great evening it was. The staff were very attentive and the musician who played (Ricky) was great too. I would definitely recommend this for a similar type event in the future (and many of our guests said the same!)

This is the third private party we have had in Eighty One for our local choir of about 40 people. The owner is always so accommodating and friendly and is very willing to make sure the menu suits everyone especially those with particular diets. The food was lovely and a good price and the portions were huge. The restaurant is licensed but not overpriced. The staff are very friendly and the service was great and they even put up with us singing at the end of the night! It is a great venue for a big crowd, ideal for a party - we'll be back in Eighty One for the next one.

We recently had a private 30th birthday party here, and it was the perfect venue. The owners were helpful in planning the event, the staff very friendly, the drink well priced and the food very tasty!There were around 40 people at the party, a DJ and a lot of good fun. All of our guests remarked at how good a venue it was for this type of event, so if you are looking for a venue for your private party, then look no further!

First visit to cafe 81. Great experience. Lovely staff, very helpful.We had breakfast , just right scrambled eggs and toast, veggie fry ,two quorn sausages ,fried potato bread ,toasted soda farl,beans ,tomato, mushrooms all well cooked and a big pot of tea, with offer of refill. All for £13, that's value.We were there 10.30 ,good timing as by 11 it was filling up. Only down side was air conditioning, it was a bit chilly. Will be back anyway.

I recently just moved to Holywood and I have being to this cafe 3 times already because it is that good!! Excellent food and great portion sizes!! Staff are great and are more than helpful and attentive!

Called in for lunch today with the girls. Busy restaurant but got a table quickly. Service isn't very fast but they were obviously busy. Lots of variety on the menu and drinks orders taken straight away. I made a difficult order and it was no problem to make substitutions. Food was really lovely and big portions. Good value for money and an all round lovely meal. Will definitely be back. Good alternative to other pricey equivalents in Holywood.

Called in for a late lunch a couple of weeks ago. The staff were polite & friendly although our order took a long time to arrive even though there were only two other people in the restaurant. The waitress did apologise & say something was broken in the kitchen but I didn't quite catch her exact words.The food was very enjoyable. We had spicy parsnip soup which was thick, delicious & served with a slice of extremely tasty wheaten bread. The salmon sandwich was equally tasty. However I would suggest that they specify on the menu that it is smoked salmon - not an issue for us but it may be for some customers.We indulged in a couple of tray bakes & Americano coffees to finish. The tray bakes were lovely & much lighter than they appeared. The coffee was too strong for me but it suited my husband fine. I think I heard someone else ask for a half shot but I'm not certain - worth asking if you don't like it too strong.We were attracted to Eighty One by the European style of the menu in the window but, once inside, it seemed to be more conventional than we had expected. However I feel that it would come into its own later in the day so next time we will return in the evening.

We went to eighty one for early evening drinks and nibbles. Food and wine good value and very tasty. There was live music, a guy on guitar, playing Sting,Van Morrison, David Gray -really good and not too loud, created a great atmosphere.

My mum and i visited 81 for the first time and i have to say we where greated by very friendly welcomeing staff who where very afficiant.The resturant itself was very clean modern and very comfortable.The menu was very pleasing something for everyone i mysrlf chose a goats cheese bagle which was served with rocket salad and caramelised onions it was vety tasty.we will definatly be back to try out the lovley home made traybakes....oooo yes they also do cocktails so that will also be on my order next time to.....i would definatly recomend 81 we couldnt fault it ...( enjoy )