Based on 1.319 opinions finded in 1 websites
Based on 1.319 opinions finded in 1 websites
Nº 148 in 286 in North West Leicestershire
Nº 10 of 13 Italian in North West Leicestershire
Opinions
The best part of the visit was the location/setting. This is our second visit we were not impressed first time two years ago but decided to try it again for Sunday Lunch. Our opinion has not changed the food was under welming and overpriced, meat was swamped in gravy, roast potatoes not crisp. Two courses for 29.50 were starter and main, we feel there should be an option of main and desert. There are far better offerings locally
BusybeeSussex . 2024-11-12
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Had a wonderful anniversary lunch here on 31st October. Great bar staff downstairs..attentive and charmimg young people. Given plenty of time to finish our drinks before being taken to our table upstairs. Seated at a corner table with lake view. Food was simply delicious and the service faultless.
Julie W . 2024-11-02
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Lovely restaurant with lakeside view. Easy parking, bar down stairs, lift to first floor restaurant, if needed . All staff encountered were friendly and checked everything was just right for us. We had Olives, Monkfish in Lobster Bisque Sauce, Halibut with Lemon, Garlic and White Wine Sauce with sides of Buttered Mash and Mixed Veg. Followed by desserts Affogatto and Ice-Cream. The meals were cooked to perfection. Very enjoyable.
Burn-Rubber-1969 . 2024-10-30
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The food, service and atmosphere are always excellent in this friendly, family run restaurant. Can’t wait to visit again very soon.
Stella C . 2024-10-29
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First time visit but definitely not the last. Absolutely wonderful! More expensive than your average restaurant but you get what you pay for.
Mr A . 2024-10-27
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Celebrating our wedding anniversary, Sunday lunch. Lovely setting , staff are brilliant, very friendly and attentive. The food is scrummy, but you need to be hungry, quite large portions, very tasty and nicely presented. Will definitely return.
Winks6 . 2024-09-08
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Recommended to us by family who’ve eaten here a couple of times but I really don’t understand what they see in it. The food is average at best (we cook better at home) the service was poor by modern standards - we have a son with a nut and sesame allergy and in every other place we’ve dined in recent times, the staff ask about allergies when they hand out the menus. Not here. We had to raise it with the waitress and she really didn’t instil confidence as regards her understanding of the menu and what he could and couldn’t order. To make matters worse, the food is over priced. All in all, very disappointing.
CRAIG . 2024-09-03
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So, after having my booking messed up after doing it online 6 weeks ago, I spoke to so.eone senior who rebooked me for today, reconfirmed twice during the call. Turned up tonight to find they have booked the wrong time again, how difficult is this to sort! Decided I would not give them the pleasure of my hard earned money and left. Never, ever again!
Mark G . 2024-08-09
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Great evening on the balcony overlooking the lake in the sunshine. Food was the usual excellent standard. Can't fault this place.
David H . 2024-08-05
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Bought 6 of my family here last night as a birthday treat for my son and can’t believe we haven’t been before. We’ve been to Italy a number of times and the food was better than what we had in Italy. The restaurant itself is spacious and modern with plenty of parking and seating area in the bar downstairs. Staff were excellent, and so nice to see so many Italian staff to add to that authentic feel. A particular highlight was the veal Milanese - simply superb.
Roger J . 2024-08-04
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Poor ! Expensive second rate food .bread and olives £10, bread was one up from a sliced supermarket loaf . I ordered Halibut at £27.95 to be told sides are extra. The salad garnish was brown on the edges . The creamy mash as it stated on the menu £4.99 was grey and lumpy ( I sent it back ) whole meal was unappealing and pretty tasteless. I definitely won't return .. Sorry overrated poor value for money 💰
Ali G . 2024-07-11
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A very attractive restaurant with lovely seating areas to enjoy the view of the beautiful lakeside. A lovely fish pond with fountains on approach is so nice. Very clean appearance, & exceptional staff throughout. Food very nice although incredibly expensive considering you purchase your meat/steak then further pay for veg /pots/chips. But non the less the food was well presented & tasty. Sadly the restaurant lacks ambiance, despite it being busy there was no atmosphere & we felt we had to talk very quietly. The tables were positioned exceptionally close and so there was no privacy at all from other diners. It felt like we were dining with strangers. There's something lacking, no intimacy or background music. We enjoyed our short visit but won't be returning as it's exceptionally expensive & lacks a warmth or vibe.
Lisa W . 2024-07-08
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Came here for my Mum's 90th birthday celebration. Wonderful venue, especially being able to sit outside in the beautiful weather. Food was lovely, staff very helpful. Thank you for a wonderful afternoon!
HellieHill . 2024-07-01
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Was a little disappointed with our visit today to celebrate our sons 21st birthday. Have been many a time and always enjoyed. The lady waitress was very miserable and a happy birthday to our son maybe would have been nice. Food was more average than normal. Hopefully just an off day as would still return.
Claire A . 2024-05-31
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First visit to the restaurant after moving in to the area, easy to book, very friendly staff, sat on the balcony in the sun and enjoyed some great food and drink. Nothing I could find that i didn't like about the place, the position on the lake was beautiful with a very worth while menu and reasonable cost.
Lee W . 2024-05-10
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Wouldn’t recommend later that night the food had given me a bad belly. The waiter was rude and we felt rushed. The food was poor considering it is a high end restaurant. The meals come with too much sauce. The bread was stale and poor for the starter. I become unwell with a bad belly later on that evening. The restaurant itself over looks a lake which is nice scenery during summer but I would not return and feel there are better quality restaurants which meet expectations.
Michelle B . 2024-04-06
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Went here for my Birthday with family last, very accommodating and pleasant staff, food was delicious , well presented. The only reason I haven't given a 5 is because the food did have a skin on due to being under a heat lamp and the rooms were very cold.
Vikki C . 2024-03-25
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Always come here when visiting the area. I had calamari, absolutely delicious and plenty of it. Followed by seafood risotto, which was beautifully cooked. Had a lovely side salad and topped off with an excellent Cosmopolitan. Fabulous, friendly service. What's not to love?
Mouseavich . 2024-03-17
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Booked today for a treat. Been here several times before. Arrived early for a drink in the bar before lunch. Previously had a wonderful martini. Ignored for 20 mins although people who walked in after us were served before us. Ended up being the only ones in the bar, had to ask for a drink at the bar. Ordered a martini again, waited ages again. Arrived with no apology, very poorly made and someone had fetched a small black olive from the kitchen. When told that this was not as on the menu, was told that they had no green olives, served very insulting shot glass full of ice with 2 small black olives. Asked if everything was ok, I said not really, but no solution was offered by staff and just walked away. Then told table was ready before we hade had finished our drink. We had waited a total of half an hour and no one else in the bar! Food was ok and service in the restaurant was much better. Need to sort out the service in the bar to deliver consistent results. Came back specifically because our drinks were really good last time, this time service and drinks were very substandard, won’t be in a rush to return
Purplegirl28 . 2024-03-17
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I couldn't wish for any better place to go with my family for Mother's Day! This place made my day. It was delight from start to finish. Impeccable and excellent customer service and charming ambience made for a memorable experience. My experience at this restaurant today was nothing short of exceptional. A place where every element comes together ! Thank you for the beautiful day. I definitely will be back again.
ADoll . 2024-03-10
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Our first time at San Giovanni's, and we were celebrating an occasion. Food was good and had a nice table, but the service was to be desired. Our table wasn't ready, after a short wait we were seated and left for 20+ minutes, no drinks or order was taken, I had to find a waiter to serve us. At the end of the dinner I then had to find a waiter for the bill, as they were all busy stripping the linens from the table and clearing up for the end of the day. Unsure if I would return, as it is an expensive dinner for below average service.
Louise2905 . 2024-03-06
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I had great expectations of this restaurant, it having been recommended to me. The food did not disappoint, it was excellent. However, the service was poor, to say the least. The restaurant staff would do well to learn some customer service from the young women in the ground floor reception/bar who were pleasant, polite, efficient and friendly. One of our orders (there were only 6 of us), when it was served, was not what had been ordered and one was not as we had requested ie. without the sauce, despite us checking this order twice. These errors were not handled with professionalism or good grace. Four of the party started their meal, whilst two of us had to wait for the meal we had ordered, although the side order of vegetables was left! Finally, there were problems with the internet connection meaning my card payment failed several times. Again, this was handled poorly. I was actually told I'd have to pay cash! In conclusion, food's great, service isn't. This definitely spoiled a family event, but I don't expect anyone at San Giovanni's cares.
Kath B . 2024-03-03
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This venue came highly recommended and didn't dissapoint. The food and service were superb, the fillet steak was perfectly cooked and as good as I've ever had. Really impressed and would recommend 👌
AUSTIN G . 2024-02-29
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We recently had an underwhelming meal at San Giovanni. Previous visits have been lovely and the restaurant has been our go to for special occasions. We followed up the meal with an email to the restaurant describing the burnt saute potatoes, cold vegetables and questionable fillet steak which was cut flat and square. We received a response stating that fillet steak should not be flat but not given any explanation why the steak we were served was not as described on the menu We gave up trying to bring this to the attention to the waiting staff and left very disappointed. We did follow up their reply to our email and a week later are still awaiting a response.
LoveTravel541648 . 2024-02-27
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We highly recommend trying here! We literally can't fault a thing, and will definitely be going back. The food was incredible, the setting and restaurant itself was beautiful, the atmosphere was lovely and the staff were really friendly and efficient. The portions were plenty and tasted amazing. Food and drinks came out so quick and everything is made fresh to order. There is plenty of on-site parking for anyone driving there. I recommend booking in advance as they tend to get booked up! It's in a really pretty setting, and I can imagine it to be even nicer in spring/summer with all the outdoor seating.
emrebeccajones . 2024-02-19
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Went for a meal for my birthday and it did not dissapoint! Staff friendly, place beautiful and the food was amazing!! I had the Lobster and it was delicious! Biscoff cheesecake dessert amazing too! Very impressed. Will definitely return. Thankyou!
Leigh S . 2024-02-12
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I used to go to San Giovanni regularly, it used to be the best place to celebrate family events. It's sadly gone very downhill. It's far too loud for any conversation. The pizza was very poor, a moist sloppy base and not nice cheese. The waiting staff couldn't answer basic questions about the menu and were not prepared to go off menu at all not even to give my wife a basic salad. At the prices they charge I expect good food, good environment and good service. I got none of these. I was very disappointed.
156rogera . 2024-02-11
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We had a wonderful night last night as a group of 3 attending the Charlotte Tilbury masterclass that the restaurant hosted. We have been to the restaurant a few times before for dinner and this event was everything San Giovanni is.. classy and professional. From the organising of the event to every little detail we were so impressed, couldn't fault it. Our welcome prosecco came beautifully presented with pink flowers, we had a fab personalised cupcake and even a branded cocktail all included... (so good we had to order another!) We had a wonderful evening and the antipasti, bruschettes and all the food was to die for as usual. We can't wait to come back again and hopefully they'll be more events like this please!!
Rebecca B . 2024-01-31
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A beautiful setting, we were made most welcome. I have mobility problems but the restaurant has a lift. The Champagne was cooled and on the table for our arrival. Ordering was easy but we were not pressured, given time as we were spoiled for choice. The food was well cooked and served. Portions were generous. Could not fault them. Not cheap but well worth the money.
tisszy . 2024-01-29
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Food was amazing. Only thing that let it down was the drinks - passionfruit martini came without the shot of Prosecco. When questioned why we got told the other tables asked for the shot - that wasn’t even an option when we ordered. When finished our dinner we were told downstairs would serve us more drinks to then get refused as last orders were called and the bar was closed!!
courteneyohara . 2024-01-27
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Booked for my wife’s birthday so asked for a table with a view. We got there and were shoved in the corner nowhere near a window which I found embarrassing. Man taking phone calls was really rude. Non of the staff had masks or visors on whilst stood directly above us taking our order and it felt like the tables were closer together than before COVID. It used to be really nice but I now feel that they don’t care for their customers one little bit and just want to take your money.
FrontRowClay . 2020-09-09
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Starter of prawns and scallops rubbery overcooked probably microwaved. Steak Rosini was like nothing I’ve ever seen and not in a good way. Medium well not medium rare steak sitting forlornly like an island in a sea of thick gloop , pertaining to be a Madeira sauce. Bitter and tasteless. Side dishes reheated potatoes not value for money at all
Jules379 . 2020-09-01
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Big expectations when visiting San Giovanni, a lot of recommendations however it wasn’t up to my expectations. The restaurant itself is lovely, very tidy and decorated nicely. I feel as if the tables are quite close together, it also gets very hot in the restaurant area... food is nice however it is pricey for what you are getting. Overall not a bad experience however I wouldn’t be looking at returning anytime soon...
sophmxx . 2020-08-10
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Just had a long awaited family meal here and can honestly say that it was superb from start to finish. The setting is very nice, relaxed and (in the weather we had yesterday) amazing. It's nice to sit outside and have a little drink before being ushered to the table. The place has a really nice buzz about it, and the table was spacious (for 6 people).The menu here is great. You're spoilt for choice and left wishing you could order everything. I cannot ever what each person had, but the plates went back empty, as too they did after the mains. 4 out of the 6 had a steak, and they were all cooked to perfection.The sides were all very tasty too.Desserts and coffee all good and we didn't have an issue with anything all evening. The staff are also amazing. The table is cleared (after each course) in no time whatsoever and they were all very attentive to our drinks.All in all, this is one of our favourite restaurants, and will definitely return soon
Gavindilkes . 2020-08-01
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If I could give a zero I would. Very rude, abrupt answer of No.. we don’t do takeaways any more!! Have a heart, I’m saddened by your lack of empathy and support to a local family that is going through hell at the moment, who supported you when you were in need. Shame on you!!
amandajC3333ZQ . 2020-07-25
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I booked to go for my husbands 60th, we are real foodies and have wanted to visit for a while and I thought this would be a special opportunity to do that.The setting of the restaurant is fabulous but I have to say I was disappointed with the food. I chose steak which was nice but the sauce was warm with a film on it, like it had sat around under one of those lights for a bit. My husband chose the monkfish and again he said it was really nice but wasn't hot enough. Overall the food was good but a little disappointing on the temperature side, no one asked how the meal was during or afterwards, it is expensive for what it is.
Jussy2013 . 2019-11-15
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We ate here for our wedding anniversary this weekend. The food was lovely. We both had the mixed seafood starter, so tasty and a generous portion. Our main was fillet steak with pate, both were cooked perfectly and the steaks were excellent quality. Amaretto cheesecake was dessert, again very rich and yummy. Our waitress was very friendly, she wrote down tips on a piece of paper as to where to visit in Italy, she also recommended a beautiful wine (we had 2 bottles). It’s our 3 rd visit here and we are never disappointed. Our bill was around £160 with a couple of drinks at the bar added on but for a special occasion it’s well worth it.
963rachaelf . 2019-08-19
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Happy memory of this place, just beautiful setting and we sat outside with a cocktail before dinner feeling very happy and relaxed in the sun. The service was good as was the food. Having been to Italy many times it will never taste the same but it was close and this place was perfect for our special little occasion and we plan to go back this year for our anniversary. Price just a little high for a regular meal.
UkShorty . 2019-07-16
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We went here as a family to celebrate my birthday on may 1st. What a fantastic venue overlooking the river and from start to finish all I can say is absolutely wonderful. The food was delicious for all of us, the steak just melted in your mouth. Will definitely be returning ASAP !!! Thankyou for making my night so special xx
lewis10058 . 2019-05-07
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I love eating here- the whole atmosphere and ambiance just works so well- the food is always consistently excellent and the service focussed and friendly
anne s . 2019-04-23
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The location Is lovely, service is all right can't complain. Quality of food can be better, maybe my expectations where too high but in general really worth a visit , relaxing and elegant environment
gabrimo . 2019-04-22
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Really enjoyed a good family meal here. The food was superb, the service good and efficient. All in all a pleasure!
Lindy207 . 2019-02-12
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It’s quite a distance for us to go here, but always worthwhile. I tend to stick to the same favourites - always excellent - but friends are more adventurous and never disappointed.
Angela H . 2019-02-09
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Rude staff, food is OK but awful for the price. When you ring it's hard to get through, the staff are all stuck up, staff wear trainers which isn't what you expect within a "fine-dining" establishment. Food is OK, when I've ever had an issue with the food the problem is never sorted.A note to the owners, do not play the charts !
638dylanw . 2018-10-13
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Can't recommend this place enough, we often visit as a couple and a family. We have never had a bad meal or experience. Highly recommend.
irishspringbok . 2018-03-31
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Wow what a fantastic restaurant!! It was our first visit here and we will definitely be returning! The food was delicious, service was great and a very lovely environment. Would recommend highly!!!
sbrailey16 . 2018-02-15
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Been here 3 times this year, the latest just before Christmas with 5 other friends.
Cjslro . 2017-12-30
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Been here many times and was always impressed. Took my partner one Sunday evening for a special occasion.
Kevin C . 2017-12-26
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This is my most favourite restaurant and it is just wonderful, the food is amazing, delicious, tasty, luxury and just the best food I’ve ever eaten so far. The service is very good, the staff all friendly and polite, very professional. The facilities are all clean and smell nice. The menu is great, not too much but not to little on there. The restaurant itself is clean, tidy, cozy, warm and a nice atmosphere. The grounds are gorgeous too, with outdoor seating, with a lovely pond. Overall the best restaurant I’ve been too and I’d love to go again. Great for special occasions, wining and dining. Recommended to all.
SarahC10082 . 2017-11-08
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It is a good restaurant indeed. Menu is wide and all dishes very well cooked. However, went to ask for a table for 8 people for my own wedding and the owner was a bit rude. Even mention to me they attend up to 500 people in a Saturday. So basically telling us they do not make any special events, just normal meals. So we have booked another venue instead.
PedroL2277 . 2017-10-08
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modern restaurant in a lovely setting with views over a lake. With a large patio outside (for warm evenings) to relax and enjoy a few drinks. Restaurant was split into 2. We sat in the left hand side which had better views over the lake. The food was delicious especially the whole seabass which was boned at the table.A few of our table had steak which they said was very good. The food can be a little pricey especially as you have to pay extra for accompaniments ie. vegetables,salad etc. But the staff were great , very friendly. A most enjoyable evening in lovely surroundings
18kays . 2017-09-01
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The food Is over priced , the staff when you phone are not very friendly . The scallops were cold and a little disappointed for the price we paid .
Kaggy45 . 2017-08-23
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The restaurant is set in a lovely location, out door area very relaxing to sit in, downstairs we had cocktails in the bar nice contemporary area, upstairs for the restaurant, the food was very good we were a party of 8, all the food came out together, the service was very good.
em2309 . 2017-08-22
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have been previously but many years ago. my husband booked a table for my birthday including our children 8, 14,16. we arrived early and noticed how the place has expanded over the years they have a lower seating area to enjoy the location. which is very relaxing next to the lake. we where shown to our table which was opposite the bar upstairs,and it was the table there. we where given the drinks menu and menu. some one took our drinks order, then they never returned to the table again other tables where then seated and their orders we taken for both drinks and food. even though we where placed by the bar it was difficult to caught anyone attention to get them to take our food order. finally someone different came and took food order. we all ordered starters and a main course. the starters were ok nothing special,compared to other italians l have been too. for the main course i ordered veal with a cream and mushroom sauce. the plate was covered in sauce to the extend that you couldnt really taste the veal, it was more sauce that you could taste. you also had to add extra to make a complete meal for both veal and the t steak my husband had. my husband ordered potatoes with onion and bacon and green beans with cheese. my husband steak was tough, even though it was supposely medium raw. he struggled to cut it. i ordered salad and homemade chips to go with the veal. to me the chips were not homemade they were more like frozen roast potatoes that had been put in the fryer. they dont have a children menu so my daughter ordered an adult meal, being spaghettie carbonara. though she felt unwell during dinner so couldnt eat it all. so when asked if if could be boxed up to take it home they looked as us in disgust, stating it could any be wrapped in tinfoil. and when they had done that they just throw it on the table. but to me when you are pay for an adult meal that a child cant eat fully you should be allowed to take the rest of it home without that sort of reaction. definitely disappointed, to the point we didnt even look at the pudding menu. definitely wont be returning. to me they seemed more interested in the 2 large parties that were there.
moink37 . 2017-08-16
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Tuvimos una cena compañeros de equipo. Realmente impresionados con las instalaciones del restaurante y su ubicación. La comida era muy buena, aunque bastante cara. 8 libras por un plato muy pequeño es demasiado caro. Tuve la mozzarella a la parrilla a la griglia. Principal era un filete con salsa de 8 onzas, increíble calidad y uso de tamaño razonable. Postre de nuevo casi 6 libras por una pequeña porción. Realmente creo que los restaurantes de este nivel debe proporcionar grandes porciones todo su menú. Volveré, ya que es un lugar fantástico, sólo algunas partes mejorarse para merecen cinco estrellas.
Pedro L . 2017-08-03
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Bueno era excepcional. Frescos y sabrosos. Todos los 4 de nosotros tuvimos 3 campos y disfruté de todos los aspectos de la comida. 100. 00 por pareja incluye vino y cócteles. Vale la pena cada céntimo! El servicio fue fabuloso. Mejor comida en un largo tiempo.
miss60queen . 2017-08-02
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I have visited this restaurant on many occasions for different celebrations and it has never failed to deliver exceptional service and outstanding food, coupled with beautiful views it makes this a must. You will not be disappointed in anyway. Superb!!!
MSTtransport . 2017-01-08
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Having had in the past, some very nice meals here - my recent visit on 26-11-2016 was very disappointing. The Italian food was an English attempt that lacked real Italian authenticity, I have created better in my own kitchen. Not only was my meal very disappointing, but the aloof staff only contributed to my discomfort, together with the bill.
Rachel R . 2016-11-28
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My partner made a booking Monday evening for the following day. On arrival we entered the downstairs which was well decorated and met by staff who provided a warm welcome and cocktails that were excellent, particularly the martini expresso.After cocktails we headed upstairs to the restaurant, which is much larger than expected. We were seated with a smile and my coat hung. After perusing the menu we ordered food and a bottle of wine, which was excellent; it's just a pity the poor young lad couldn't open the bottle and need to be rescued by another staff member. We didn't hold it against him, but perhaps some corkscrew training is needed!The food arrived and was really very good indeed. I chose the swordfish, my partner the pasta. The swordfish was of a signiclficant size and very well cooked indeed, it can be easy to overcook making it a little tough, but it just fell apart, and the sauce it was in was delicious....As was the pasta, I couldn't help but try some!The only picky criticism was that there was a little too much dressing on the salad we chose to go with our meal.We shared desert and left feeling well fed.The lady waiting our table was friendly, smiled and was available without being intrusive.Thanks to the man at the table behind for singing along to the music - I hope your date was impressed, I tried not to giggle too much, but good effort Definitely one to revisit in the better weather to enjoy the views.
MightyMouser . 2016-11-14
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Lovely setting and nice building. We had heard so much about this restaurant before we came, so we were very excited to eventually make a visit. The bar is the whole of the downstairs, and that had quite a nice atmosphere. I found the restaurant a little stark, although we all commented on how comfortable the seats were. We were welcomed by a very nice gentleman in Italian and shown to our table. The pleasantries ended there. The waiting on staff were surly. Perhaps their English was not too good, although all the orders were delivered accurately. 'Drinks?' was the first encounter, followed by 'Food' and a little later ',make some space'. No smiling at all. We shared starters which were all lovely, but we all failed to finish our main courses. Some were too rich (largely the seafood options) and the steaks were nothing special. We didn't have any desserts. I did look at the dessert menu and thought that it let the restaurant down really. Only predictable, uninspiring choices. That wasn't the main reason for declining dessert though. We were celebrating a birthday and rang ahead to see if we could order a cake or candle in a dessert etc, but we were told that they didn't do that, but we could bring our own cake. I am sure that lots of people would like that, but business wise it didn't seem to make a lot of sense. Credit to the restaurant for bringing out the cake and getting everyone to sing along and a candle. And to Marks and Spencer for the cake!It's certainly not a bad place, but perhaps we expected too much. I would certainly urge them to consider a little staff training.
sheds . 2016-09-06
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Four of us went for a three course meal. Every dish was delicious. Also had 2 bottles of prosecco rosé. It worked out at just over £50 per head. Scallops Thermidor, prawns, steak, risotto, salmon. All beautiful! Bargain. I'll definitely go back.
Nayno73 . 2016-08-26
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A fantastic location on the edge of the village. Very popular so book well ahead - at least two to three weeks is recommended. Excellent food and friendly service.
Murray C . 2016-08-04
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We had lunch here today, the waiters were very attentive, the food was very good, the atmosphere was convivial and the décor was very modern and in excellent taste. Wewere taken there by our family who had visited more than once. We shall return!
555Helen555 . 2016-07-27
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Visited for lunch on a Tuesday, arrived early so had a drink downstairs first. Staff are excellent. Varied comprehensive menu. Couldn't fault it enjoyed our meal, but there is just something I can't put my finger on, I think it's the decor, it's a bit severe a lot of black, however, my husband loved it and wants to go back.
Anna D . 2016-01-05
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We went to this tiny village, 35 minutes from Birmingham, for a friends birthday party. This really is a gem of a place as it's only 10 minutes from junction 11 of the M42 but I'd honestly never heard of it before.We started with a cocktail/mocktail and a glass of chianti in the downstairs bar and then went upstairs to one of the two dining areas for our meals. The starters were larger than expected and the mains were frankly huge. We had bruschetta, mushrooms and a mixed vegetable grill to start followed by the mushroom risotto and chicken stuffed with brie as our mains. Not one of us actually finished our main course and there was definitely no room left for desserts. The cost of this feast was £30/head including drinks so it was very good value for money.The staff were really friendly and overall, we had a fantastic night out.
Manjit S . 2015-12-17
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After having a good meal on Thursday evening with friends decided to take my partner for Sunday Lunch and I wasn't disappointed. It was again a very friendly atmosphere, good service and the food was very enjoyable. (See photo's below)
CHRIS B . 2015-12-13
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My husband and I visited San Giovanni for our wedding anniversary on October 16th, we had heard amazing reports of excellent food but quite prices and have cycled past the lovely building many times.We ordered bread, which was not specialty bread but just normal bread and we were charged for it. Our starter arrived that quickly it arrived before the wine and before we had chance to even start the bread. Both our starters were bland and not really that warm. Our main course was again delivered to out table in record time. We both had steak, the steak itself was good meat but the bland thick sauce with a skin on it was over powering, again this was not hot and the plate was cold.The was a slice of pate on the top which was bland and obviously was not homemade. The vegetables were swimming in oil and not really nice and agin not hot.It felt like everything was prepared and not cooked for us.All of this happened within 50 minutes of arriving!! We came for a nice meal which we could spend time together, we were rushed and left very disappointed and home really early. Not worth it at all!!My husband contacted Guisppe the owner a few days after and was very apologetic and offered a free bottle of wine on return......why would we return?I don't normally complain and did not wan to ruin my wedding anniversary meal but maybe I should of!Maybe an offer of let us try again for you? Or a refund? But a free bottle of wine?
J0AndyR . 2015-11-08
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Beautiful building with lake to the side, pond and fountain in front and spacious car park, where it was safe to leave a car overnight as they lock the gates.The large balcony offered lovely views of the countryside and lake, which would be great for pre dinner drinks on a nice night..It is a very spacious place with a nice bar area for pre dinner drinks. The staff were attentive a ready to offer advice on the menu choices. The food was really good with plenty of choice, including a special menu with a wide choice of fish dishes. A little pricey but you get what you pay for!All in all great experience, we will be back!
nigel j . 2015-10-04
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My wife and I went with friends. The food is 1st class no dought about it. If anything just a little pricey.service is good as well.I would go there again but it couldn't be a regular thing due to the price.
Darren W . 2015-10-02
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Went with family and friends (party of 6) for lunch on Saturday 15th August 2015 for my 60th birthday. Had a great time in a fantastic atmosphere. Staff couldn't do enough for us and the food was amazing. Will go again - when have saved up some money !! Although in saying that, given the quality and service it was great value for money
Garrett_family15 . 2015-09-01
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Had meant to visit here for a long time and finally I did. The restaurant itself is set in a beautiful building set on the edge of a lake which adds to a nice atmosphere. The food was reasonably priced and very good with a wide range to suit everyone. Certainly recommend to anyone who likes Italian.
IanD9 . 2015-06-30
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Brilliant. We brought friends with us from Shropshire, and they have gone away with details so that they can meet family based in Nottingham and Derby at the restaurant. All of us had a fabulous meal, great food, wine and excellent service. The staff are very attentive and polite.Lovely setting, especially when the weather is nice for alfresco dining. We have moved to the area only recently and this is by far the best restaurant. Tonia D
Tonia D . 2014-09-17
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Having visited San Giovanni's on Saturday 13t Sepember 2014, have to say that it was not as good as the previous times visited. Location fabulous and waiting staff very attentive, however food and presentation was not as nice as previous visits. We had a starter of mixed olives, bread and olive oil/balsamic vinegar, however before we had finished this our main course arrived. I felt that we were being rushed through rather than being good service. Asked for a house rose and was charged £22.00 for this along with £3.50 for water. We were given the dessert menus and asked what we wanted. I asked waitress to give us time as we had only just finished our main menu, however she hovered around the table until we made a decision. As previously said we felt as though we were being rushed through. Will not rush back.
AnonymousLeicester . 2014-09-16
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Have eaten here on numerous occasions over the years without complaint. food is of the highest standards. wine is fantastic. very helpful and polite although a lot of the waiters don't speak great English. Not the cheapest but you get what you pay for.
Cobra003 . 2014-06-07
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First time the the above when entering was asked if we had booked and said yes we were then taken up to out table, The waiter came and we ordered we all had steak which was lovely its a place that everything else is extra, Veg, potatoes ect I had the Saute potatoes they were lovely the meal was fine but we felt rushed we sat down at 19.30 and had our 3 course by 9.30 and out by 10 the place was busy i wanted to go there for as long time, i am glad I did but will not return I like to be made a fuss off I wasnt.
bobalong2011 . 2014-05-28
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273 Opinions
I visited the restaurant on Saturday 25th Feb as part of a large group (50+people). Now I understand that 50 people arriving at the same time is a bit of a nightmare but, as I understand it, Marco was given all of our menu choices in advance. Anyway, we arrived at 7pm and received our starter at 8.20pm. This wasn't a huge issue as we were enjoying the company of our friends, however as the night went on it meant that some had finished their meals and others hadn't even had their mains, some never got them and left. The waitresses did their best to calm the waters and generally the mood was OK despite the obvious problems. The food when it did arrive was acceptable, but I had expected slightly better than acceptable to be honest. We asked for parmesan and was told there wasnt any tonight. Some on our table didn't eat their mains as they said it was bland and left before their deserts. As I say, I get 50 people is a bit of a logistical nightmare but surely the restaurant should have been prepared for that? All in all I would advise not to visit if you're in a large group.
1541 Opinions
Gosh very sad to say my Sea Bass Alla Napoletana was quite bland now this could be that I've just spent a month in Napoli itself and so very used to much more vibrant flavours but it was disappointing 😞 My husband however enjoyed his burger very much 🤗
1529 Opinions
We were greeted on entering the premises, and shown to our table. The service was great, and the food was excellent
226 Opinions
Dolce Cafe may not serve Italian fare, but it's a charming spot with a varied menu, and a variety of tempting cakes. The atmosphere is cozy, and the staff are friendly. If you have a sweet tooth and enjoy a relaxed cafe setting, this place is worth a visit.