The Artful Dodger in Torbay

Came away bitterly disappointed. This was to be a 'milestone ' birthday treat. We were looking forward to a beautiful afternoon tea with a table covered with a crisp, white tablecloth, laidened with delicious teatime treats overlooking Torbay. The experience was nothing like we had hoped for. No one to meet and greet us upon arrival. We were initially ignored then directed, not shown, to a cracked brown formica table 'set' for us with two paper napkins, knives and forks and two glass tumblers, in a corner, away from the main dining area and the window. Eventually, we were approached by Heidi, whom we assumed to be restaurant manager. We asked to be reseated and a table was cleared for us. We were served a pot of tea for two and awaited our food. An hour later, we were still waiting. During that time we witnessed several disgruntled customers complaining. Although there were three waiters present, we did not receive any service or attention from them. After an hour, Heidi reappeared and was very apologetic. She offered us a complimentary glass of Prosecco. Our booking had been for 3pm. By now it was 4.30. The food arrived and like the tea table, was nothing like we were led to expect. The sandwiches were not as described on the menu. Some of the fillings were spread so thinly that they were difficult to identify. The pastries were missing. The cakes were not the patisserie style fancies shown in the promotional pictures, but more like traybakes cut into different sized chunks and didn't seem particularly fresh. Our teapot was refreshed and we were given new cups and "saucers", which turned out to be side plates. Heidi did try to make us comfortable, but by that time, all hope of enjoying our afternoon was lost. We did ask a waiter for a box to take our cakes away but were told "We don't do boxes" and we're directed to a pile of paper napkins and told to help ourselves. The three saving graces are; At £25, it wasn't the most expensive afternoon tea. I would have paid more for a first class experience. Heidi did her best to keep customers happy, with what appeared to be very little support from her colleagues. Whatever the Imperial are paying her, it's not enough. The one thing that the hotel did deliver on was the magnificent view, but I give the Imperial no credit for that whatsoever. Lastly, I sent an email to the Imperial later that day, and to add insult to injury, now, almost a week later, have had no response. NB. Pictured - what the Imperial's advertising led us to expect. NOT what we got !

Returned after a couple of years to fine a beatifully refurbished bistro overlooking Torbay (ok it was misty) with a extensive menu. My confit duck leg was the best meal I've had for years and the seafood platter was equally good.

Love this the food was so good!!! The only bad part is it took 30 minutes to get my food

the food is hot, filling and arrives very quickly, even when dinning room is full. service is 100% attentive. the range of food is very good

Excellent coffee and service. Please commend the staff for their care and service to an elderly customer. They were always caring and considerate. It was a joy to visit whilst i was on holiday in Torquay.