Riverbank Restaurant in Stafford

Have a friend who was Alumni from Stafford catering college over 30 years ago so I suggested we go back to his old stomping ground and see what is on offer. And rather glad we did. Food excellence at under 30 pounds a head. Loved it all with some truly outstanding dishes (if it's on when you go there, WE cannot recommend the cheese custard starter enough) Such exciting young trainee chefs and front of staff, brilliant experience and you owe it yourself if you truly love food to go and be well fed by the future staff members of restaurants.

Surprisingly excellent food, friendly service and good atmosphere. We had a lovely evening (5 of us) and it was a pleasure to support young trainees in the catering industry - and have a delicious 3 course meal at the same time!

We were lucky enough to have a booking for the 19 December Christmas dinner in an exstemelly busy service and what a wonderful experience it was to serve so many people it was like clockwork the food was amazing and the students absolutely brilliant in there execution of the varied tasks we have never been here before when so busy but the students and staff put there heads down and just kept going our waitress Tiffany deserves a special mention for being so attentive and professional what a wonderful experience so close to Christmas can’t wait to book nexst year.

We were lucky enough to book a table for the Aston marina restaurant takeover at riverbank collage restaurant and what a night it was probably one of the finest meals we have ate from the amuse Boucher to the petti fours the whole meal was amazing so well presented and tasty and so filling we struggled to eat everything but there was no leaving anything it was that good everybody worked so hard to make it a fantastic night and I must mention the value for money this is 5 star dining for unbelievable prices all the students are so well trained and must be jumping for joy being taught tricks of the trade by such accomplished chefs who are teaching them so well with there time and skills from professional restaurants.

I’ve only recently found this restaurant on the internet but now I’ll shout it from the rooftops it is one of the nicest places I have had the fortune to visit the restaurant is first class the food five star and the students so hard working and eager to please I can’t recommend this place enough the prices are so reasonable for the quality I could eat here every day if top quality throughout me forget students this is a very professional and slick operation the food is meticulously cooked and presented even being licenced which was a surprise the students deserve all the support the public can generate as the idea is absolutely fantastic for our future chefs ect give yourself a treat I bet you won’t be disappointed I wasn’t and can’t wait to rebook a visit if I can get in it’s that good.

Great food and well served . I attended this college and studied the same course many years ago and so I was very excited to sample what was on offer…… and I was not disappointed ! Lovely food , well presented and served professionally . The only difference was that we had to learn silver service and they don’t practice this now ( not on this day anyway) Will visit again asap.

I found out about Riverbank Restaurant because my son is on a catering course at the College. As soon as we discovered it, I have been multiply times for lunch and dinner. The food is always amazing and the service is great. I cannot recommend this Restaurant enough, top quality Restaurant food but at a fraction of the price!

After booking for a special night cooked by Aston Marina chefs we arrived to find no booking for us to be found, most annoying. After waiting a while they set up a table for us , the welcome drink was tasty Hubby’s starter had to much salt on, ( fish)mine choice was perfect ( goats cheese salad) Main course was perfect for us all ( beef) Sweets was tasty especially the toffee apple part. Had a cocktail which was nice but very minty. The service could have been better but they are all just learning how to cope with customers.

What an excellent Indian themed meal, from the warm friendly welcome to a very good set meal. The food was superb couldn’t fault anything on offer, we liked the main which gave a selection of everything very good. The service throughout by Nickie was exceptional couldn’t have been better nothing too much trouble. If you have never been try the riverbank you will not be disappointed.

10/10 lovely food and vibe , great customer service , and meal. Will definitely be returning to your lovely restaurant

Went with two friends for a "first time" lunch, very impressed with politeness and presentation of staff. Food was excellent considering it is a training venue. nicely cooked and presented. A couple of minor food criticisms,should not have been evident in a training environment,but that is a professional shortcoming for the tutors to be aware of. All students working very hard and conscientiously, interacting well with customers giving good impression. Apparently no professional employed tutors are employed in the restaurant,only the kitchen. For the sake of student development and guidance- why not ?? Super venue, bargain price,delightful lunch experience, will return !

I’ve been going to the Stafford College restaurant for a number of years, and have had excellent meals and service. Since it was taken over by Newcastle College, it’s gone downhill. At the Xmas lunch, they “forgot” to bring the main courses, and staff were generally inattentive. Thought I’d give them another chance, but sadly a recent lunch was even worse. We waited 20-30 minutes between courses; staff had no idea of the menu (what the soup of the day was or which fruit was in the crumble); desserts came without the ice cream stated on the menu (yet another long wait for the missing ice cream); water glasses not topped up unless we asked (but trying to get anyone’s attention was difficult), and there was a general lack of attentiveness and service. Staff appeared miserable (with the exception of one or two) and most spent a lot of the time at the bar area with their backs to the diners. I appreciate that they are students and “learning the ropes”, but there was no discernible teaching supervision, guidance or training. We were there two and a quarter hours, most of that time waiting for the food to arrive. On previous visits, the bill has always been brought to us on a dish, along with a feedback comments card. Now you get a paper bill put on the table. They clearly no longer want customer feedback. I’m sad to write a poor review, and I doubt that I will return to the restaurant. I hope that the managers and staff take note of these comments and restore the restaurant to the excellent experience it used to be.

First visit to this restaurant and it will not be the last. Polite, friendly staff well dressed and efficient. Very good prices for top quality food, and lots of it. Wish I had found this little gem years ago.

My husband and I enjoyed a wonderful lunch at The Riverbank with excellent service - 3 courses for £12.50 and a wonderful bottle of white wine. Service was excellent and this training establishment really delivers. If you have not tried it we suggest you do so soon. Have booked a table for 7 in October.

Have visited here a few times over last year or so - REALLY RECOMMEND IT! Students are keen and obviously work hard behind the scenes to prepare delicious meals. Presentation of dishes is great. One slight criticism is that dishes of vegetables are not always as hot as they could be - otherwise GREAT!

We enjoyed a lovely afternoon tea at the riverbank restaurant, all the staff were excellent and the food was of a high standard. There was a good selection of sandwiches and a more than generous selection of cakes. And to finish off scones and clotted cream and jam. There was was plenty of tea and coffee on offer and for £11.50 a bargain. Give it a try you will not be disappointed

I went to Riverbank Restaurant as part of a charity event. I had already chosen what I wanted to eat. The staff were very polite and helpful and the restaurant itself was very nicely decorated. The starter of melon was beautifully presented and I must say the risotto I had was one of the nicest I have ever tasted. I had cheesecake to finish with which was also excellent. All the students did an excellent job and should be congratulated. I am certainly going to find out how to book a table and go again.

Wow we dined at the Riverbank Restaurant for the Spanish event and was not disappointed the food was amazing, so authentic and full of flavour. Everthing was cooked perfectly and to such a high standard and a real treat for me and my wife, the service was great too and our waiter Tom was very attentive and served to a high standard so well done Tom.To think that this is a college Restaurant and these chefs and waiters are only just starting off in their careers is amazing, to be paying only a fraction of what it would normally cost makes it even more worth while great job to all involved.the

We went last night - this was the first time we have visited this restaurant. The evening was superb! The service, the food, the wine and the bill - all lovely!Will definitely be visiting more often - without a doubt highly recommend, I will be spreading the word. These students deserve a big pat on the back.

The diners had pre-selected their three course meal choices, which were served by friendly and efficient students. The waiting staff were very smartly turned out in uniforms, and set an example that many commercial establishments could emulate. Each course was delicious, being well-presented and tasty. I look forward to visiting again, and can highly recommend this venue.

They said it was the 2nd time of doing this. We were pleasantly surprised how good the service & quality of food was. They did say next September they will be doing more, so will be booking in again. Also won the raffle which was in aid of teenage cancer.

We went there because it was our wedding anniversary and wanted a special experience. well we certainly got that considering the waiting on staff are students, everything was done to a high professional standard, the ambience was delightful with lots of people there enjoying the evening and the food was absolutely outstanding. I had lamb that melted in the mouth and the desert which was a Blackberry zabaglione was absolutely amazing. I heard other people comment about the desert as well, wanting to know what the ingredients were. the restaurant manager Tim made sure everybody was well looked after and we felt very welcome. they did a duck amuse-bouche and that was so tasty. I have no hesitation to consider this restaurants to be one of the best in Stafford

The restaurant is organised by students and tutors an excellent menu to select from and varied. The waiters are always attentive and helpful explain the menu all food is cooked well and served better than some hotels. As this a catering college there are limited days when they are open only term time.

This is a Special place that does not feature on normal radar.

Booked in for 6 of us, amazing meal as always. The salmon starter was so nice that even my brother finished the lot, and he doesn't usually like salmon! Second starter of haggis, neeps and tatties is unfortunately not shown, I ate it before I remembered I was planning to review. The fillet of beef was perfect for me, some were slightly more cooked than others depending on the thickness of the cut but all were like butter. I wasn't sure i'd manage the dessert as was feeling quite full at this point, but it was soon devoured along with the coffee and tablet that followed.

This was my first visit to Riverbank restaurant and it certainly won’t be my last.

Myself and two old friends met at Stafford as a central point and booked the Riverside for dinner on Wednesday French night. The food and wine was excellent and the price incredible value. Well done! Do not miss if you live or find yourself in Stafford on a Tuesday or Wednesday evening.

So glad that the restaurant is opening again on Wednesday evenings - our first visit this term and it was brilliant.

Recientemente me invitaron a almorzar. El servicio y la calidad de la comida era sencillamente extraordinaria y no podía ser perfeccionado de ninguna manera. Lo mejor de este restaurante es que la comida y el servicio es proporcionado por los estudiantes principalmente estudiando catering y hospitalidad a Stafford College. Quiero volver sin embargo que las primeras reservas que pude conseguir es en septiembre, pero merece la pena la espera.

7 de nosotros fuimos para el almuerzo, gad 3 campos impecable. La comida estaba cocinada a la perfección y la presentación era de 5 estrellas. El servicio era mejor que en los restaurantes donde hemos pagado mucho más. Los estudiantes y el personal son un crédito para el colegio, sin duda recomendaría dar una oportunidad. Reserva con anticipación ya que es fácil ver por qué están ocupados.

La comida y el servicio fueron excelentes, la espera entre platos fue justo con la espera en el personal, siempre a mano si tenemos necesitaba algo, no podría haber sido más servicial. A £17. 50 por tres campos es una excepcional relación calidad-precio. La comida...

Me encanta ir a la comida es excelente servicio Riverway (Cameron street 1 año estudiante) muy eficiente un placer compartir una excelente comida con amigos

Organicé una comida para nuestro grupo de la iglesia para personas mayores. Desde el comienzo de la Ribera no podría haber sido más servicial. Catering y hospitalidad de los estudiantes nos dio un almuerzo que todos los de nuestro grupo dijo que era excelente. Fue muy profesionalmente presentadas. volveremos a este lugar

Excelente servicio, la gente joven en la cocina (nivel 1) (jueves) comida absolutamente fabuloso. La calidad de la comida y el servicio. Altamente recomendado.

This week was my fifth visit in as many weeks, with the special Christmas menu on offer. Those of you who are reading this will be aware the restaurant is located within Stafford College. It is a very pleasant place, nicely decorated and furnished with its own bar and kitchen. Its primary purpose (I believe) is to allow the students from the Stafford College Hospitality and Catering course to further their practical training in the process of working in this important and ever growing field. Stafford does seem to have a good mix of eateries with more about to open.Customers need to reserve a table and my experience showed how popular it was, all tables were occupied on my visits with a nice background atmosphere. The young students were naturally a little nervous but did an excellent job at serving the diners. Discreetly observing in the background are their supervisors who step forward if they see a potential hiccup. One of the vegetables being served on most of my visits by using fork and spoon was sprouts cut in half, which caused great difficulty. I nearly didn't get any at all on one occasion. They had my sympathy as I'm sure I would have made a hash of it. They made a first class job of it generally and it was good to see them carefully observing etiquette in doing everything ' by the book' as it were.The quality of the meals was first class, at least on a par with other established restaurants elsewhere. You don't get to see who is preparing the meals but I assume they are students also under expert supervision. They deserve high praise for the quality and presentation.As an aside I must mention the name 'Riverbank' is a slight misnomer because the college is separated from the river by a road and park. Because of the location and height of the windows you have no view of the riverbank when you are seated (except on a table by a side window) A minor matter.I shall return as a regular customer in 2017 as and when they are open to the public.

Went with friends on Tuesday evening 3 coarse meal the food was really good well presented, good choice nice surroundings, service by waiters was alright but they have to gain experience somewhere but they were well supervised and did well. My only real complaint is the very expensive wine far too over priced. But I would return well done to the staff

What a find! Brilliant three course meal for just over a tenner. Crab risotto, beef cheek and cherry and apple crumble for me , terrine, pork chop with cassoulet then treacle tart for him. A great Italian red and tea and coffee. Great service by slightly nervous trainees. The chef deserve real praise. A must visit place for foodies and a bargain to boot.

Meals provided by College Apprentices, supervised of course by the highly qualified staff are always excellent quality. This little known restaurant provides top quality, restraint quality food at a fraction of the price. Visit to spot the next great Chef's cooking up a great meal.

We came with a group of friends for the American theme night, the food and service were fantastic, very attentive student served us believe his name was Andre very helpful and professional. Will continue to use this fantastic venue.

This is the second time my partner and I have been here. Students skills are on display both in the kitchen and front of house. Showcasing great food and drink with now rarely used techniques like silver service, it's a great experience. You could nit pick, but if you do your missing the point.Young people learning the value of work and the skills involved, what could be better!

I cant believe this place isn't better known in Stafford. Its extremely high quality food without any trade off. The restaurant is situated within the modern part of the college and its a venue that befits the standard of food and service. I went with clients for a business dinner and we were all astounded that we hadn't been before, we have all since booked to return such was the standard of our visit. The food was fantastic, the staff were very personable and professional but the best was yet to come... You couldn't get the quality of service and food that we had anywhere else for the price we paid.... the value really is unbeatable.

This a way to eat excellent food at affordable prices. The food is provided by catering students who cook under close supervision by professional chefs. The students also learn the 'waiting on' process supervised by a diligent member of staff.The whole experience is a delight with excellent food and service in a welcoming atmosphere. You really should try it.

We had heard the food was good and some of us husbands accompanied our wives to the Riverside for a Milwich WI celebration meal. Well for a very reasonable cost, we enjoyed one of if not the best meals we have had for sometime.The trainees and trainers had obviously worked very hard to achieve such standards and all smiled throughout, which makes the difference.Although we were 28 in total this did not prove any problem to them and the quality was consistent throughout.Well done Stafford College on tonight's performance the students will go far.

Catering students cook and serve restaurant quality meals in this light and pleasant restaurant. Open for lunch four days a week and for dinner on two evenings. They also have special event dinners occasionally. You do need to book though. The service is sometimes a little slow as the youngsters are still learning the job but it is the ideal place for a leisurely meal.

Faultless from start to finish, amazing service by the students and the food was excellent. I highly recommend a visit you will not be disappointed.

My wife and I visited the Riverbank Restaurant on 15th March; Carribean theme night.I expected the food to be of a very good quality, however I was amazed by the quality of the food. It was absolutely fantastic. Huge credit to the two young chefs that produced the menu and executed it perfectly. Two hugely talented chefs.All of the staff were superb; friendly, professional and polite. Well done to them.Fantastic evening in a lovely restaurant. Excellent value for money. I can't wait to go back.

Good menus for both lunch and evening meals, very good value for money and service is excellent, remember that these are students learning their trade and some mistakes may be made, but I have never had any problems with either food or service

I booked a lunch for 28 of our Senior Citizens Group. Our members were coming to me all with positive comments. The menu is published in advance and kept for a month. It was varied,, with something to suit all tastes. I can highly recommend.

Expectations of eating in a college restaurant with trainees cooking and serving the food gave us food for thought. excuse the pun! But on arrival myself and my guest's we're pleasantly surprised. An attentive maitre d welcomed us at the entrance of the restaurant, took our coats and showed us to our table. What then followed was some of the best food and service we have experienced in a long time. A well balanced menu to suit all tastes and an extensive wine and drinks menu were presented. We all gave in our food orders and by the time the water was poured our entrees had arrived. We all were served and ate like kings throughout the evening. Pleasant surroundings, excellent food and service, all that was left was to settle the bill! A big smile of delight came when it was time to pay! The conclusion? See you again next month Riverside Restaurant, Stafford College.

Celebrating a double birthday with friends and family so wanted everything to go smoothly. Well! Needn't have worried, it was impeccable. Turned out that our table of eight were the only diners, so the service was superb. As requested, we choose a wide variety from the interesting menu, and each of us had a great meal. The puddings were sublime, and I am not a particularly pudding person. Great wine choice - our Rose was possibly the finest I have ever tasted. Cannot wait to visit again and many congratulations to the staff and student for the excellent, professional service they provide

I have tried food tonight that I have never had before! the service was professional, friendly and surprisingly good for a training establishment. the prices were fair and I am going to look out for the next theme night. come on stafford. what are you waiting for! !!!

Are you sure this is a college restaurant? the courtesy from making the booking to walking in the door was delightful. a relaxed atmosphere, well presented room and motivated young people who are a credit to the college. the food was interesting and presentation made you want to eat every morsel. Jenna manages the restaurant and misses nothing. ...thank you for a lovely experience for myself and 2 daughters. already booked a theme night.

What a wonderful evening. The food was excellent and truly authentic. My friend's comment - ' I've had many a paella in Spain, and this is up there with the best of them!'. Praise indeed. The Roast Belly Pork would have made any chef envious of the crackling! The whole experience made you appreciate what talent we have at Stafford College. The Camareras/Camareros were extremely professional. All beautifully collated by the Training Manager - Jenna Beech. So - Gracias Training Restaurants Stafford! Hasta que nos encontremos de nuevo :)

Enjoyed our first visit to the attractive restaurant and were impressed with the well chosen, varied menu and the friendly efficient service by students. Spanish dishes take longer to prepare than English ones because they are less familiar.So the preparation was a credit to the students and their teachers.

Friendly welcome, table looked lovely as per silver service.excellent menu food arrived without delay. Starter of egg benedict delightful, roast lamb and vegs all excellent, and the chocolate sweet was heaven. I WOULD RECOMMEND THIS EXPERIENCE TO EVERYONE, AND SUCH GOOD VALUE! Thank you

we have been recommended to try this place,so my friends and decided to book a table . We were greeted at the door and straight away shown to our table the waitress had a lovely smile .we ordered and when the food came all at the same time also very hot great start. Food was delicious and the rest of the evening flowed beautifully with the atmosphere of the place .see you guys very soon

Managed to get a reservation here after a long time trying.Problem appears to be regulars who rebook straight after visiting.Anyway was worth the wait.The whole experience was really enjoyable.The place has a good vibe with the staff being extremely professional. The menu selection is not vast but what is on offer is presented and cooked really well. The portion sizes are spot on.The cocktails of the day were a nice touch.Would like to give a shout out to Robert who looked after us on the night.He was efficient friendly polite professional and had a good knowledge base.Cannot wait to visit again.

Becoming quite a regular here! They know our names and our individual dietary quirks and foibles! (Which gives confidence when one guest has a potentially fatal intolerance to a specific food) The food last night was spot on! The service, as ever a credit to the students who were very friendly and efficient. We had a great 'girls' night and booked again for another evening before we left. The desserts were so fabulous, we could have licked the glaze off the plate!

Went to riverbank for a meal cooked by the students under Lewis partnership executive chef Matt Davies. What a lovely meal. I am a vegetarian and felt well catered for. The meal was superb. Would highly recommend. Cauliflower veloute as amuse bouche. I had crispy egg and pak choi - so much flavour, for starters. Mushroom risotto main followed by lemon meringue pie with fennel meringue which cut through the richness. Coffee and fudge. A lovely flavoursome meal. The students front of house did a good job aiming to please.

We had booked to come to the Riverbank with friends who we have been with before, unfortunatley due to unexpect work commitments they had to cancel, however, we invited my brother & his wife, who had never been and we had a wonderful evening, the best fillet steak we have ever eaten and Sophie our waitress was wonderful. Thank you to Jenna who was able to fit us int the following week with the original group, again the food & service was outstanding, thank you Pheobe, they are a credit to you & I am spreading the word amongst frends who are all keen to come, we will see you very soon.

Lovely food served in very elegant surroundings by very attentive staff. The students did the college proud. The table settings, plates and cutlery were beautiful. Good sized portions of well cooked food with plenty of variety. Confident, polite waiters and waitresses. We will certainly visit again.

The whole experience was as if we were in a star rated restaraunt, service was excellent & the foood was amazing, credit to the students, we cant wait to go back in december, thank you to Jenna for the excellent service from all her team

After hearing a few good reviews from circles of friends, I decided to try & judge for myself. I finally made a booking for lunch & was quite impressed. The restaurant is very nicely decorated, you wouldn't think its a college restaurant. For £9.50 for 3 courses including coffee & tea, the service, the quality of food & attention to detail is amazing. I'm surprised the restaurant doesn't have a higher rating on Trip Advisor. Every course was delicious and the portions were very generous. I did like the fact there was a gap between each course, giving the tummy a chance to digest. I was completely stuffed that I did not need to eat for the rest of day. The menu changes every 2 weeks, which is great as I'll definitely be a regular from now on. The restaurant does not serve alcohol, but you can bring your own. I highly recommend Riverbank Restaurant to all, whether its for a special occasion or just a day/night out. Thank you to all the students, you were all great.

Excellent bistro type restaurant at stafford college Superb food the best fine dining in stafford well worth every penny ,You would pay more than double for the same standard

I didn't really know what to expect when I booked here, despite the good reviews here, but the food and service were both first class. We went for lunch, which was excellent value at £8.50 for 3 courses and coffee. Starters chosen were chicken satay and salmon fishcakes, main courses were duck in a black cherry sauce and roast pork loin and desserts were sticky toffee pudding and orange syllabub. All were very well prepared, but my favourite was the syllabub, which was delicious.This was my first time at the Riverbank, but it won't be my last.

My first experience at the riverbank and it was excellent. The students were very polite and did an excellent job. Food was beautiful. I would definately recommend this restaurant for a nice night out!

Had a very enjoyable evening in a warm and spaciou setting. The students were very friendly, attentive and professional throughout the evening. Our waitress understood the menu and answered any queries politely and without hesitation. The restaurant caters for all tastes, the vegetarian menu was excellent. I would recommend the restaurant to anyone who loikes an intersting food choice at great value. Beware though, you need to book in advance.....can fully understand why.

We've been a couple times recently since the relocation, and sadly it seems things haven't gone well since the move. We've been going for a number of years now, and never had a single bad meal and always was felt like we were visiting Family & Friends rather than going to a restaurant, sadly this is no more.As other recent reviews point out, since Seamus has left there has been a very obvious drop in standards. We miss him.The staff who are left are friendly and accommodating but it doesn't resolve the sterile feeling of the surroundings. The food is still of an acceptable quality considering this is a training restaurant and good value for money (but still not as good as it used to be). Service is also slow at times.There used to be a vegetarian main option which has now disappeared and have now been advised to call ahead if you want one. We did broach this with the current MaîtreD', but apparently they've never done vegetarian options? Which is strange as we've ordered them many times before. We appreciate in some respects that changes had to be made because of the current financial climate...but possibly the wrong changes have been made...and it is sad for those who remember the previous college restaurant - Earls restaurant and the ever impressive Seamus.

this is always a great and interesting evening. The menu is different every time and has interesting food for vegetarians as well.I would recommend this to anyone who likes good value fine dining in a spacious modern setting.... you have to book quite far in advance!

What has happened to the Riverbanks restaurant? I have had all my forward bookings cancelled by telephone by the college with no explanation. Recorded message. The restaurant used to be a pleasure to visit when it was Earls Restaurant; the new Riverbank design is not so pleasant. We have had to complain about the food ( salad dried up, left standing on the hot plate was the explanation but no apology). No where for coats to be hung, coats were on a wet pile on a chair. Mine ended up on the floor. The tables are too large for a couple to have a conversation. The maitre’d Seamus is not with the college anymore, on querying this with members of staff I was told that ‘We are not allowed to say’. Neither Ann nor Jane are available to answer any queries. The cover for Seamus is more like a down market caff not somewhere I would wish to take friends for a meal. Not a restaurant I would wish to visit again.

This review has no stars as we didn't get through the door this evening despite having a firm booking, as were others in the queue behind us. We arrived to find an empty restaurant and were told a rambling tale abourt lack of staff, lack of telephone numbers and/or email addresses to enable them to inform customers of the cancellation of Tuesday evening dinners, ad infinitum. We were told our booking was null and void, and there were no spaces for future bookings in the near future. One of our party has been a loyal customer and supporter of Stafford College Restaurant for 40 years, and to be summarily dismissed at the door was insulting and unworthy of this establishment. We doubt if we are alone in our dismay at such an experience, and trust that future students will taught the value of loyalty. The recent disappearance of their excellent maitre d' and office staff has puzzled and nonplussed us and tonight's debacle seems to point to a sad lack of public relations skills. What a shame that things couldn't have stayed as good as they were.

Last night, (13th February 2013) I was one of the fortunate few to have a table at Riverbank Restaurant at Stafford College. It had been booked before Christmas and the anticipation was worth the wait! The students were very smart in their new grey uniforms. The service was friendly and absolutely spot on. They are obviously very proud of their new very elegant restaurant. The starter; Wild Mushroom & Cashew Risotto was 'Perfection on a Plate' The mushrooms didn't overpower the delicate blend of rice and cashews. It was just gorgeous! Next, an amuse bouche; Apple Celery and Mint which arrived in a doll's house sized cup and saucer. It was most unusual but very delicious The main course, slow braised blade of beef was just exquisite. It had been cooked for 6 hours and was so tender it completely fell apart when it saw the fork. Served with stir fried cabbage, Mousseline Potato, Hand and Flower Carrots in Red Wine gravy My dining partner had the Fish Chips and Mushy Peas and was of the opinion that the fish and chips on a 5 star cruise ship can never be surpassed. This accolade was soon toppled by the sight of a huge, crispy battered fish which was 'delicious beyond words' ... apparently. I have to take this as read as 'it was so wonderful - it was too good to share!,' It came accompanied by home made tomto sauce with bread and butter. Next, a delicate flavoured pear sorbet arrived in small Martini glasses which was very refreshing. Then the desserts; I had the Strawberry Tart and Fruit coulis. The fresh strawberries actually tasted of fresh summer strawberry My dining partner had the Banana brulee and shortbread which was pronounced 'divine' Coffee and tea with handmade chocolates followed to round off a fantastic meal. Compliments to Mike Hughes in the kitchen, Seamus Davies, front of house and the students, the food and service were on a par with a 5 star restaurant and they all made it seem so effortless!On the way out was spoke to one of the students who worked in the kitchen and he couldn't sing the praise of the course and the tutors highly enough. Sadly we cannot get another table as they are booked solid till September,. Thus we have joined the long cancellation list of eager fans waiting to experience another fine dining experience at Riverbank Restaurant.

The fact that you have to book so far in advance to get a table here speaks volumes.My wife and I booked a table and along with our 9 month old daughter went for an evening meal on a Wednesday. After finding the restaurant (which wasn't too easy if i'm honest, even with directions) we were efficiently shown to our table, handed menus and offered drinks.The young lady that served us was very friendly, understandably a bit nervous and shy perhaps but she did a great job and by the end of the night was much more engaging and chatty which was nice.The food was delicious and from what I remember was (starter) goats cheese 3 ways, beetroot 2 ways for my wife and a lovely seafood dish cannot remember the name unfortunately for myself. Mains were then Fish and Chips for my wife (huge fish, they ran out of chips unfortunately but replaced with mash) and stuffed duck breast with ratatouille and various other bits for myself. Dessert was Banana Brulee and Strawberry Tart.Sprinkle in a few other "compliments of the chef" dishes like spiced apple soup and pear sorbet and it really was a feast, we were stuffed.We will definitely be back, unfortunately its difficult for us to plan so far in advance to book so will see when we can get back in.One small request - is there any possibility of a high-chair for our next visit please :)

booked a table for 2 for lunch ( 7/2/13) after reading reviews on tripadvisor. this is a training/development restaurant within the stafford college buildings. we paid an amazing £8.50 per head for a 3 course meal, each course with a minimum of 3 options, with tea/coffee to follow ( reasonably priced wine etc also available)our food was exceptional, the young waiting on staff were attentive and helpful whilst being supervised by experienced managers.booking via the college website is essential ( be prepared to wait a couple of weeks for a table) but its well worth the wait, this place is a fantastic experience. well done to all associated with it

We have today taken lunch at the Riverbank and what an experience.....excellent food, lovely restaurant setting and considering our young waiter had only been 'training' since September, superb service....We had been waiting several weeks for a table and were not disappointed, so much so that we have rebooked Our young waiter was naturally a little nervous but didnt fail on his service and was very attentive and welcoming...The food was presented, and served professionally and was very good.....The menu is excellent value although a little limited,but superb quality, and certainly considering the students were 1st year, could not be faulted.. if there should be a problem in the restaurant, the tutor was on hand to assist.. In our experience a very enjoyable lunch with excellent service from a polite, welcoming and efficient young waiter in training....

This is hands down the best restaurant in Stafford, as the combination of gourmet dishes, exquisite presentation, friendly service and superb value is unique in the town. If you want an alternative to Stafford's ubiquitous curry houses, there is nothing to touch the all round value for money that the new Stafford College restaurant offers. I have been going as often as I can to Riverbank - and its predecessor, Earls - and their popularity is evidenced by the fact that you always need to book well in advance. For just £15 a head you typically get three gourmet courses (with a choice of several dishes per course), interspersed by two mini- / pre-dishes. The Christmas meal tonight consisted of three courses plus tea and coffee and petit fours, but that was more than ample! The new restaurant has an ultra modern ambience with a predominantly white colour scheme, and the dress code is smart casual. The Maitre d', Seamus, is very welcoming and friendly, and quick to step in if you have any special requirements or questions about the dishes on offer.Highly recommended!

A friendly welcome ,well chosen menu superb quality food and a sensible wine list.Although the waiters are 'learning the trade'their supervisors ensure that it is always a happy and rewarding experience as well as being excellent value

Been about 20 times in the evening, either Tuesdays or Wednesdays. Food always nice. Service varies depending on the degree of training of the students, but it is never a problem as the maitre d is always watching and is a great host. Wine and beer available at a reasonable price. Booking is necessary quite a few weeks in advance. Only open in term times.My only criticism is that it is impossible to get a rare steak, even when the French chef is on duty the steaks are never less than medium.

Very high standard. I didn't expect such a fantastic meal from trainee chefs. The best meal I've had in years and for very little money.

Earls Restaurant is managed by Stafford College, and serves as a training restaurant for the students on catering and hospitality courses. Our party of 25 were the sole diners at a pre-booked annual dinner for a local society, who had all pre-selected our meal choices a couple of weeks before the meal. Drinks were available from a small bar, and the three course meal was served efficiently. A wide choice of courses were enjoyed by all those in the group. The cost per person was a very reasonable £15, which was collected by the party organiser from diners on arrival, and paid at the end of the meal.I understand that Earls Restaurant is also open at lunchtime for those who have not pre-booked, and that demand is high. Opening hours are from noon Tuesday - Friday for lunch, and on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 7pm for dinner. For a unique and enjoyable dining experience, that represents excellent value for money, Earls Restaurant at Stafford College is definitely worth a look.