The Caird in Dundee City

Markets itself as a as a fairly well to do venue however it very much is not. We were a group of 11 for my fathers birthday. We had to order in advance which I imagined should have allowed for a smooth fast service, it wasn’t even close. The mains for whatever reason started coming out with the starters, we sent the mains back. Starters were mediocre. Mains arrived 50 minutes later having obviously sat under the hot lamps of the kitchen pass for the duration so were very much dry. When raised with the server they said they would report it to the kitchen… nothing was done. What was edible was eaten and we waited another 50 minutes for desserts which were also mediocre. We were in the restaurant for 2.5 hrs which is an obscene amount of time for a 3 course meal never mind one that’s be en ordered in advance. The price of the dishes was at the very high end for what they were. It wasn’t busy at all there were around 15 other customers soon no idea what took so long. The place lacks atmosphere. The decor is naff and the choice of furniture is poor for a restaurant, getting in and out of the chairs around the table is difficult and the servers a forced to either lean over you or hand you the plates. The place could do so much better.

Visited here on the 24th September 2022 for a birthday tea when we book we were told we couldn't have the Shackleton restaurant as some of the party wanted meals from the bar menu as plain eaters. When we arrived the bar was packed and understandably noisy. Nobody looked like they were ready to move on to accommodate our party so the staff who we can't fault said we could use the Shackleton restaurant. Thanks for that. But as for the food that was a let down edable yes but quality had gone down from 2 weeks previously when we were there for my grandsons birthday. The fish looked like it come out of a frozen birdseye box. And steak was flat not what expected. I know inflation but don't mind paying a little extra for quality

Going downhill in my estimation. Service was fine however we chose to sit outside and use the outside bar service. There was no lemon nor lime to go with drinks and server didn’t know what a lager tops was. Not her fault obviously but training is tantamount. We decided to go inside (hoping for some limes and lemons). I ordered a French Martini which was served up and I was disappointed there was no fresh raspberry finish. I asked for this but was advised they’d ran out 🤷‍♀️. Premium cocktails, premium gins with just ice doesn’t cut it for the price in my eyes. If you run out there was plenty of staff there to pop out to get more fruit. In my eyes the Caird has lost its attention to detail which is disappointing. Maybe it was just an off day but will be thinking twice about visiting in future.

Past the Caird to make a booking for a hour later , we asked the waitress if we could sit at the window , as place was empty . She said absolutely, we will see you in a hour . On our return the staff had no confirmation of any booking and politely suggested we could sit at window in restaurant as it was empty. It is a lovely dining room and the 2 staff were lovely , our dinner was look warm unfortunately. 2nd time here and won't be back

Visited on Saturday 30 July. Arrived at 7 p m and eventually got our starters at 7.50 p m. The young waitress, who was excellent, kept apologizing for the delay. According to a supervisor they had issues with the kitchen and a new chef who did not know the menu. We eventually got our mains about 9 p m - 2 were cold and 2 were not what was described on the menu. When we asked to speak to a manager we were informed that they were to busy. Management shirking responsibility. We did get a reduction on the final bill but it did not compensate for a ruined evening.

book caird for graduation celebration lunch on set menu at £39pp. after receiving menus & contemplating for 20 mins proceeded to give our order to waiter only to be told, no duck ( one of the mains on menu), the chicken could be provided with only boiled of chips & not mash as on menu? surprised that couldn’t mash a boiled potato. starters- soup, had to ask for a spoon after soup was served, waitress left. plus 1 starter ( black pudding stack) missing. by tune this was provided we had more or less finished starters. main- see comments at start. sweet- cheesecake ordered with cream, came with ice cream, took that long to get the cream we had almost finished. coffee- when asked for , advised machine broken. didn’t even offer or suggest even instant coffee. the actual quality of food was good, but at £39pp, i and the family expected better quality & standard of service. would i return or recommend to anyone- no.

Passing on Sunday afternoon and heard live music (brass type band) upstairs. Had not been in premises before so went in and looked around. No staff said anything so we went upstairs and say the band looked mostly youngsters and appeared practice. Never saw any alcohol being consumed so guessed it was mainly relatives who were watching. Left premises. Passed bye an hour later and heard music again. Decided to go in for a refreshment, downstairs, whilst listening to band. The decor of the place is lovely. It was almost empty, only 2 tables occupied. Approached the bar where 3 staff were preparing / serving drinks. Got a ‘Hi’ as this was being done. Got served and was pleasantly surprise to find pint of lager at very reasonable price. Asked if there was a Wi-Fi code to be told by waitress ‘don’t know’ then server said ‘staff only’. Consumed refreshments and my wife and I out on our jackets and were adjacent to the door when the waitress walked past us without saying a word ! Usually you get a ‘thanks’, ‘bye’or ‘enjoy the rest of your day’ but there was nothing. The area surrounding us was empty so it was obvious we were leaving. All in all, we were not surprised the place was almost empty. It looks beautiful, prices were great but the lack of interaction from the staff could well explain why. Such a pitty.

Heerlijk gegeten. Beetje leeg dus leek in eerste instantie minder goed. Wederom vriendelijk Le bediening hier in Schotland.

We have been to the Caird a few times and enjoyed it but this time was not great, where we were sat was quite dim and cold and the food wasnt to the same standard as usual, chicken dish was very dry and overcooked. While we were at our table two waiters were constantly moving tables and chairs around like it hadnt been set up for the booking they had and then to top it all after we left I realised out deposit hadnt been taken off our bill and I'm still trying to recover this days later.

First visit to this establishment and would not return in a hurry. We booked by phone but when we got there they had no knowledge of the booking. We were eventually shown to a table in Capone's restaurant. The service was average and the delivery of the food was unusual. One plate at a time spread over 5 minutes. The food itself was ok without being startling. One plus point for me was the music which was very much to my taste but not everyone. All in all not particularly impressed but maybe that's because we are of the older fraternity and I feel that this place lends itself to a younger clientele.

Went to The Caird on recommendations while visiting Dundee. We went in evening and were able to park close to the entrance. We had a booking and when we arrived the place looked closed . We walked past the bar and saw tables with other diners but no staff. A female staff member did appear and take our name and showed us to a table . We sat for a few minutes and took our drink order . Our drinks took a few minutes and then she took our food order No chat or recommended anything on the menu . We finished our drinks and waited for food and to order another drink . Starters didn't take too long and we had to call her back to order a drink . Our main dishwasher served quick enough too. 2 steak pies and fish and chip were delicious. We asked for our bill but would had ordered another drink if asked . Good food . 5 out of 5 Service 1 out of 5

Be very aware if you have a booking check before you go to ensure its valid .I booked over the phone as you normally do,when we arrived they had no record of our booking and were fully booked .The young man in Shackeltons could not have been nicer and offered to squeeze, us in elsewere an offer we declined we had chosen the restaurant as we are planning a big family occasion and we looking for a nice restaurant with a good menu it wont be the Caird.We use restaurants in Dundee and the Ferry Regularly and have never had this happen ,as someone who has spent most of my working life in hospitality i know incidents like this should never be allowed to happen cant understand why a member of staff would pretend to take a booking we can only guess .

I took my wife for lunch in the newly furbished garden area, food was excellent, outside staff were efficient and friendly. My reason for marking only a 3 was for the cocktail my wife had. We went upstairs for a cocktail after lunch and my wife had a Pina Colada which was very disappointing, even the cocktail barman said that was the recipe they had to follow and agreed with us. My wife left the cocktail but still had to pay for both. Now thats not good service. It left a sour taste after having such a lovely experience outside and also being shown around the theme bar.

We went to meet family for a long awaited meal! We had to change several times with covid 19 restrictions which they took in their stride and accommodated us making changes! The staff were very nice, they were all very attentive and great with the kids! The food was superb, freshly made and served up beautifully! It was a great visit and we are attending a concert in the Caird Hall and will be sure to call back in again before we go! Thank you for a superb meal and great service and very reason prices for a family of 6

We had a great day, we were made to feel welcome, the staff were friendly and made us feel safe especially with the Covid rules. The place was very clean, the food was great. The security guy was great, he was very helpful and put us at ease, we got tables inside until outside ones were available. All the Covid rules were adhered to. Thanks for making our first trip out after lockdown a good experience.

Visited with friends on a sunny Saturday. They have done a great job with the beer garden and especially with the TVs for the football. Bar service was quick and smooth and the staff were all really friendly, couldn't fault them at all. Food was...

Myself and a friend visited yesterday for the first time since restrictions were lifted. Unfortunately we didn’t have the best experience. We were only in for drinks but we waited 20 minutes for our drinks order to be taken, my friend had to go and...

In for lunch today with friends. Food was amazing all food was piping hot and tasted great. Would definitely go again. Service was perfect especially with the covid restrictions. Would totally recommend them for food.

Enjoyed a very nice afternoon tea at the Caird. Everything was delicious apart from the scones which were so hard and dry none of our party could eat them. Still good value and would return with the hope of improved scones.

I went here with some friends as we had an ItIson voucher for afternoon tea. It worked out at &20 each and was really good value and included a glass of Prosecco each! Would def go back and will be looking out for another deal.

It was my partner's birthday, so we decided to give Capone's, a recent extension to the existing Caird facility a try. We were not disappointed in any way. We were seated at a secluded table for two by a waitress who offered to take our...

For a start it is overpriced. Starters of mushroom bruschetta consisted of of mushrooms on a piece of bread. The macaroni was ok however the swordfish was dry and the belly of pork was an inedible lump of fat. Service was very slow and our...

Me and my friend went for cocktails at 172 the Caird they were excellent, tasted great and great value for money. Our waitress Megan was the great and very attentive service 10/10

Sam the mixologist you are a legend, beautiful bespoke drinks made and so warm and welcoming ... thank you!

Visited last week for retirement meal.Pre drinks had to go back to bar several times as drinks forgotten.Had to wait a long time for meal and then were told we had to hurry up as needed table again drinks mix up with meal.Pretty poor will...

We have visited the Caird for drinks before but this was our first visit for food. We were not disappointed. We were with friends and so ordered the sharing boards which were fantastic. The service and atmosphere was great too. We'll definitely be back x

Took my nan here for a little treat, I've never felt so bad for her. Food was cold when it arrived, drinks arrived at the end of the meal,staff where rude and not once did a waitress show face during the meal to ask how...

Whilst the bar is getting a lot better , the food has taken a major nose dive. Such a shame as it was top notch for a while. Lunches used to be stunning and great value, what happened???

Had a great time. Arrived at 1 pm and sat outside and had a 2 course lunch as part of the Gold master class cocktail session. Bar tender Rob aka Robson St Clair was absolutely fabulous with me and my friend and listened to all...

Been here lots of time for drinks but first time eating here. Wednesday night, not busy, sat in the lower level (former Piano Room) Waitress took the order & we asked for some water,.. 15mins - no water,.. food came out no water, 3 attempts,...

We went to the Caird as a gift voucher had been given to one of us for two people .. a two course deal plus glass of wine . Arrived at 5 pm and friendly reception was received and we were shown to our table....

Went in with friends for a cocktail, the atmosphere was lovely, we got a table by near the window giving us lovely views. A band came on which was great and added to the lovely atmosphere. Cocktails were all freshly prepared in front of you...

In Dundee for work and had a great meal in this lovely restaurant. Food was excellent, service was great and the building is incredible. Highly recommended.

staff please slow down. it's freezing in here. food is good so far but it's let down by the hustle. we are not in a pizza joint. I'm wearing my coat even though I've said I'm cold. hmn

The menu was not available online so my wife and I went not knowing what to expect.we were greeted by very polite staff and quite loud piano music.for me the menu was great everything I like and then some.For my wife it was a bit...

Stopped by for a quick drink before going to eat at a nearby restaurant. Welcome greeting as we entered. Friendly bar staff. Great choice of beer, wine and cocktails.

Lovely meal in nice surroundings. Good portion size (for me), on the smaller size. Also good value for money. Only downside was that the Lunch Menu inside differed slightly from the one displayed outside. Would recommend.

Good food, service and love the ambience of this restaurant, although a change/variety in 2/3 course lunches occasionally would be great for repeat customers.

Great layout, food was piping hot and delicious. Staff were friendly and helpful giving some suggestions from the menu.

Best risotto I've ever had. Seafood absolutely gorgeous great service also. Presentation excellent My husband had fish and chips which he thought were excellent

Really enjoyed dinner in fabulous surroundings. Very good service dinner well presented if any complaints side dish portions too big for one person, one between two more than enough. I have also been for lunch several times the set lunch is very good and excellent...

A party of 15 went for lunch on saturday afternoon. Nice place with nice atmosphere. Two course lunch menu 9,95 three course 12.95. Very good value. Service a wee bit slow but probably due to it being full. the only downside is the price of...

What a delightful place. We went for drinks only one Monday evening. It wasn't busy so we were able to fully appreciate the beautiful decor. Really classy place yet drinks are reasonably priced. Well worth a visit if you're looking for a nice relaxing ambience......

Had a meal here with friends lovely building had a drink in the bar first nicely decorated music was far too loud to have a conversation . Went upstairs for meal where a friendly waitress served us ordered wine however the white wine wasn't chilled...

A friend and I had a great evening at The Caird. It was my first visit, but certainly not my last. We had a drink at the bar prior to being shown to our table, which had a busy vibe/good atmosphere. The decor throughout is...

A super meal which was served quickly and pleasantly. We spotted the great-value lunch menu and shall definitely return to try it.

My wife and I decided to try 172 at the Caird this week for lunch and both opted for the fixed price 3 course menu as it had a choice of items that we both liked. The place was buzzing and had a nice atmosphere....

Second visit, I was disappointed with the quality of food my friend had to return the over cooked chicken and potato wedges and the customer service was highly disappointing. My first visit was a different experience.

Great atmosphere and a real buzz about the place and will return for drinks and lunch. Feel food is over priced £15 for 6 prawns a bit hefty esp when not big but then again "nobody had ever ordered prawns" according to our waitress -...

Went in for lunch on a Saturday in the bar and was amazed at how cheap the two course set menu was. Was very pleased with the quality of food we were served. Definitely going back to try the main Restaurant.

Please see the review that I have just submitted, the restaurant food & staff were Excellent and I would definatally recommend it

2 courses lunch menu excellent value.great food,great service.well worth a visit.don,t forget the cocktails.

Despite a fairly brisk service 50+ covers, my friend and I were greeted and shown to our table, fairly soon. .We were attended throughout by a bright young lass, who remained alert to any suggestion of service The fixed price menu was reasonably adventurous ,...

The other night we had booked the restaurant here for pre theatre dinner after hearing so many good things about it and having enjoyed drinks in the establishment already. To make sure we were in plenty time for our 7.30 night out, we booked our...

Fabulous new restaurant in Dundee. Decor, service, food first class well worth a visit. Their fixed lunch menu was under £9. Myself and husband took their al a carte menu. Hubby had chicken liver pate which I tried and would have to say best I...