The Orangery in North Ayrshire

Tiffin afternoon tea.Excellant selection of savoury and sweet.Bao bun and up of soup where amazing .We couldn’t manage to eat the cakes so took them home.Service was efficient,friendly and helpful even though the restaurant was very busy.

We’ve been using the main restaurant at the Seamill Hydro Hotel for over twenty five years. To be honest,it’s always been variable and unpredictable in quality. The staff,by contrast,have always been excellent . The previous owners,the Sweemey’s’ invested significantly in the hotel, including what they renamed the ‘Orangery’ restaurant . They are to be congratulated in doing so. Sadly, they sold the hotel to what I believe is called the RAD group and I’m afraid the drop off in quality is striking . Last night we had dinner in The Orangery with a friend and to say it was a major disappointment would be an understatement. This is the third time we’ve eaten there since the takeover . On the first two occasions the food was just about passable despite city centre price points . However we persevered hoping that it was simply down to takeover teething problems, but last night’s dinner was simply atrocious . One of the starters came without ingredients specified on the menu, Another had what seemed like last week’s bread with the pate . My cod was hopelessly overcooked and gave the impression of lying under a heat lamp for too long. No attempt was made to present the food in anything approaching an appetising manner. I’m not suggesting it should be fine dining , but this was closer to work’s canteen level. When I complained to the restaurant manager, Stephen , he uttered a less than believable apology and gave the impression of going through the motions with an irksome customer . He was utterly indifferent . So,after twenty five years I won’t be back and neither will my friend and we both live locally. Sorry the Sweeney’s have moved on. They are missed already.

Beautiful sea views from restaurant. Good brunch menu and the pancakes were delicous. Staff friendly and polite and service was ok. I will certainly return as it is now one of the few restaurants which does not allow dogs! That is a big plus point for many people who have allergies.

There were some good points: - the view from the window over the sea - the relaxed and unhurried ambience of the place which put our guests at ease. But - Waiting staff evaporated even before we’d received all our food - We had to chase up part of the order twice. The first time we were told it was because they were cooking it from fresh and the second time they admitted they’d forgotten to pass through the order! - The sandwiches were cold and dry - obviously pre-prepared. The scones also didn’t taste the freshest and the offering of top layer cakes was so uninspiring that most got left. - No one came, either to check we were happy or to offer to refresh our teapots.

The food was great. My husband especially liked his seafood dish. He said it was very fresh. We had a big party and the servers were very efficient and friendly

Food was lovely and nicely presented. The restaurant felt cold and draughty. But it was the service that really let this place down. We had to ask for menus we had to ask for drinks. One drink took more than 30 minutes to arrive and only after I reminded them I was still waiting. It was busy but the staff really weren’t being attentive at all. Very disappointed.

Part of a DBB deal. The menu was almost the same as the main menu, pretty much the only difference was the supplements for the more expensive meals, understandably. I had the Brie followed by the steak pie then the crumble tart. My wife had Cullen Skink, salmon then meringue and fruit. Portions are very large and neither of us finished our mains. Maybe because we wanted to leave room for dessert. Our server was Rachel, she was amazing. Loved interacting with all her diners and we had a great to and fro conversation with her. The restaurant was quiet so she was able to squeeze it in between serving and clearing duties.

Had a lovely dinner, the langoustine tails were amazing. Really friendly and attentive waiters, service and food was perfect.

Came here for lunch with my friend. Used to live here and previously loved the orangery. It’s just not what it used to be, but this particular Sunday I felt that it had just stopped trying. My friend wanted truffle and Parmesan fries and I had asked for Parmesan topped vegetable and they didn’t have any Parmesan which is utterly ridiculous considering you could go out and purchase this in the village! as I said clear they’re not even bothering!

Food was delicious but poor, poor service really let this visit down. 35-40 minute wait from ordering drinks til they arrived, our first drinks arrived literally as our mains were arriving. One of the pints was flat. My plate was quite literally thrown across the table at me by the wait staff. We then had to request a dessert menu, no one asked if we would like one. No one checked on us during our desserts. Was then a further 30 mins before we could get any staff to get us the bill. The wait for the card machine was so long we ended up walking up to the bar to pay. Again no one checked in on our experience or even asked if we enjoyed our meal. On our way out we requested to speak to duty manager, who did apologise for the plate being flung at me but otherwise was largely ineffectual, blamed the issues on “new staff” and “training issues” but didn’t offer any real solution - eg promise of more training! The awful service really took the shine off the quality of the food; we were left wishing we’d gone elsewhere. Poor show, Seamill, and, judging by other comments, we aren’t the only patrons who’ve been dissatisfied with service!

Gave the hotel the opportunity to respond to my comments about the food and service before writing this review. Unfortunately the response was less than satisfactory. We were guests of friends for lunch and didn’t complain too much about the food whilst we were eating . However, drinks ordered took their time in arriving with non alcoholic Prosecco being delivered even later. Poached Salmon came with green New potatoes, braised shoulder of lamb didn’t come in slices as expected but in the form of pulled meat in a round pile with not a hint of Lamb flavour. Sticky toffee pudding wasn’t served with honeycomb ice cream but plain ice cream with puff candy on the side. Service with a smile it was not and food, which if it had been acceptable, would not have had an overpriced comment. If you do eat here, make sure you make all of your complaints at the time and back up with photographs. Extremely disappointing, and for some reason the hotel appears to think we will be returning soon. There are far better eating places than this around.

The food was absolutely stunning in this restaurant. The haggis croquets and Bon Bon’s are amongst the best I have ever tasted. The steak and sausage pie melted in your mouth and the chicken with peppercorn was so juicy! The portions were a good size and great value for money. The waitress was also very friendly. I would highly recommend

Came for dinner whilst staying at the hotel. Food itself was fine, generous portions although the fish was a bit greasy and there were some items missing from one of the plates (quickly rectified when brought to staff’s attention). What really let things down was the service. Unfortunately very slow, which would appear to be due to lack of staff. One waitress serving 8 large tables is not great for customers or the staff member, could tell she was constantly rushed off her feet. This seems to be an ongoing issue, having looked at other reviews. Despite this our waitress, Sarah, was very pleasant and should be commended for her efforts.

Been coming here for years but poor experience this evening. Service painfully slow but clearly understaffed. Children’s menu has nothing vegetarian on it which is a change and not what you would expect in any establishment. Food was ok but nothing special considering the price. Also the music was really off putting, rock/ heavy metal again a change in the wrong direction from the more mellow tunes that used to play and not in keeping with the ambience.

Very very slow service.. pricy .. the main course battered fish portion size way too small.. deserts first class.. coffee top notch

Visited on Friday 26th January 2024 for afternoon tea for 3 people Arrived 5 minutes early and proceeded to wait to be taken to our table. Bit of a wait as there seemed to be a mix up as to where we were sitting. Ordered the afternoon tea for 3 Tea / coffee arrived then sandwiches etc… No teaspoons or milk or sugar / sweeteners on the table so had to request. At NO time did anyone ask if everything was okay or did we need anything, service was VERY poor considering the reputation of the establishment. VERY DISAPPOINTING and unfortunately won’t be returning

Got married at the hotel. States to celebrate our 5th anniversary. Took my grandparents and dinner was first class. Service was fast brilliant. Think best we had had since we have been going. Food was delicious, plates nice and hot as always. Grandparents really enjoyed it too.

Main Course was good value. Childrens Cheesburger came without cheese and after asking for cheese came back overcooked. Service needs to improve. No condiments offered. Once food was delivered no one returned to ask if everything was okay or a desert was required or any further drinks.

Decided to give it another go but sadly the place has not improved since my last visit last year, greasy battered fish and chips they were over salted while my mum's mussels were not open in their shells some were cracked open, not a good sign as shell fish in their shells should not be closed after cooking then served neither should they be cracked open!. never be back place is still as dirty totally disappointed in a place that used to have such high standard.

Food was very good indeed, draft beer options very limited, however wine choice was good, service from staff was very good also. Had two young kids who the loved to interact with. No hassles at all as we were in a large group. Very attentive also. Thankyou and well done.

Absolute shocking service. Arrived on time and ordered 3 cocktails and a g&t. Served starters before cocktail arrived. Returned them to kitchen - cocktails arrived after 30 mins. Starters arrived later - obviously left cold or partially kept warm in a microwave Rest of the meal was average at best. Avoid at all costs - final bill for 4 was close to £200 for 3

Lovely meal. Nice venue. Fabulous cocktails! Thanks so much. Thoroughly enjoyed the visit. Will be back.

Very pleasant afternoon gym swim and lunch, would highly recommend and very good value for money!!!!

Drinks weren’t served before dinner, and our server didn’t check in on us at all to check the food was good. We weren’t checked in on when we finished our drinks, and we had to chase to pay the bill. Was really looking forward to the meal but left disappointed. Shame because the food was really good.

Booked for 9 of us to celebrate my parent's 60th Wedding Anniversary. The service and welcome we got from all the staff in The Orangery was perfect. With 3 generations of family to please we were made to feel at ease even with a last minute change of tables. The meal was a relaxed affair and we enjoyed the calm attention to detail in the service that we received and all the food. Lovely presentation all the way through lunch. I had the seafood linguine - a 1st for me as I've never eaten mussels and clams before but it was delicious. My son had the sausage linguine and he said it was the best he'd ever eaten. Generous portion sizes too which kept my son really happy! Other meals included 3 pork schitzels, 2 cheeseburgers, a vegan burger and a fish and chips. Desserts were top notch in terms of presentation - loved the apple parfait and everyone else enjoyed chocmint sundaes, lemon tart, sticky toffee pud and ice cream. Thanks to the Chef for making good a cake that my daughter had baked - it had slipped on the journey from Yorkshire so the icing was a bit of a mess. All in all a great meal from start to finish. Thanks.

My wife and I have been at the Orangery on a number of occasions. Last time approximately 4/5 weeks ago,. Ont hat occasion wee thoit was good value for money and recommended thr restaurant to a number of our friends. However today we were very disappointed. Not in the food itself but in the quantity. Both main course meals were approximately 1/3 smaller than on our last visit.I read recently that the hotel had heenan sold. This this reflection of the new regime. If so we will not be back

We had a lovely dinner and couldn't fault the food at all and great value. The only negatives: We were told after an hour and fifteen minutes that they needed the table in 45 minutes. Not nice feel rushed! The other one was the dessert was forgotten about and we have to remind the staff however the waiter was very apologetic and removed it from the bill.

Staff were fantastic from start to finish. Helped me organise a surprise to be served up to my wife before our meal. The food was outstanding. Lovely atmosphere and fantastic view.

The gluten free options were varied with the pork fillet being top notch , the ribeye steak was cooked to medium it was juicy . Desserts gluten free sticky toffee pudding and the apple parfait both were excitingly delicious

Food and beverage lovely. Staff very friendly. Relaxing atmosphere after a busy day. Very comfortable surroundings.

Excellent lunch today with great food superb view and cheerful attentive staff a lovely experience can’t wait to return . The lamb curry was particularly memorable

I couldn’t fault the food everything was served hot and beautifully presented . Will definitely be back soon

Mum decided to go to the Hydro to get lunch after giving it a miss for a while the last time the cutlery was dirty with wipe marks and finger prints one of the staff having to clean them again, I was shocked at how things have gotten so bad the Orangery it has lost it's once great standard that it once was in there for years getting fish and chips that as a regular in there, the meals were not great the lasagne was like mush also a bit salty mum got her mussels one of the she said tasted a bit strange thinking it was off the rest of them seemed ok she said, trying to get someone to give us the bill as they were walking around in a daze so went over to the bar I saw serving trays being reused they were dirty also thick dust gathering at cables at the monitor screen also over head at the where the drinks were was dust that was falling from sphere walls design it could fall into someone's drink!, mum was paying by cash the card machine was dirty as well. won't be back for a long time until things improve!

I have been coming here for years and it gets better each time! Staff are friendly and food is amazing! Would really recommend seamill hydro to everyone! Amazing views and grounds to explore!

I always love going to the Orangery. The staff and service they deliver is out of this world. The kitchen never disappoint their seasonal specials are always a delight. Everyone must go here at least once.

We had the swim and lunch package which was fabulous! All staff between the spa, reception and restaurant was outstanding! We got a prime table at the window with stunning views and the food and coffee was unreal! Thank you for a lovely visit!

Had dinner here, including gluten free option which was excellent. Staff efficient and friendly. Amazing views of Arran. Only downside was that it was a bit pricey.

We asked for a window seat and got it which is always nice as it is in such a beautiful position. Staff were lovely, very friendly and one young lady answered my query on ingredients swiftly, I didn`t get her name but she had pink...

I met my sisters for lunch there yesterday and because my sisters were going to be a little late, I had decided I'd have a starter while I waited and we would all have mains together. Unfortunately, I sat for 25 minutes trying to get...

Accomodation was lovely, we did request two rooms together which we didnt get but otherwise fine. Waited long time for cocktails, but they were delicious when arrived

Celebrating the Wife's Birthday. Booked and seated promptly. Meals came minus the sides. Which came as we were finishing our course. Sat with empty plates for half an hour waiting for another drink and order our sweets. Meanwhile our server was heavily engaged in a...

Lovely location and restaurant. Both ordered full breakfast which was amazing, quality food, large portion and hot. Sadly service lacking, shown to table and had to wait sometime for waitress (never smiled looked sullen as if she didn't want to be there) to appear and...

Stayed here for our 5th wedding anniversary, food and service amazing as usual. Top quality stay throughout. A true gem on the Ayrshire coast!

Plenty of young well attired serving staff but limited sign of manager control. Table and bar clearance poor. Food arrived before drinks. Had to ask for drinks. Additional round of drinks and sweets took nearly 30 mins.

Vegan menu is not just an afterthought. Great fine dining experienced but plant based! I would thoroughly recommend!!

Food was incredible and staff amazing can’t fault seamill at all it is always so welcoming and we know when we visit what to expect time and time again

Visited for afternoon tea for an 89th birthday treat. Service was excellent. Food was lovely. Setting perfect. Couldn’t have been better. Left with boxes of treats to enjoy later.

Four of us visited this restaurant for lunch, on a lovely sunny day and it was lovely. The views are spectacular and the decor in the restaurant was contemporary and attractive. We were seated quickly and the service was friendly and efficient. We all had...

We are staying at Seamill Hydro and this is their resident restaurant. Class A food and service across the board. Will be back.

Our meal was delicious. The staff were very friendly. Seamill is one of the most beautiful settings for a celebration.

June 16th, something of a shambles really, having booked a week in advance, (with a confirmation received), we were on-route and 25 minutes before our reservation we received an e-mail advising that our booked slot had been put back! Putting this aside the food was...

3 course evening dinner, fast and friendly service. Food very well presented. Recommend the affogato

We all had a lovely meal on a lovely sunny evening. Special mention to Sarah who looked after us , what a lovely young girl. We look forward to our next visit.

BLT and chorizo club sandwiches were delicious. Truffle and parmesan fries were heavenly! Great service from Selina. Beautiful view from our window seat

Excellent food and service. Great scenery. Afternoon tea was really nice. Good selection of sandwiches and cakes.

Beautiful setting overlooking the sea. Ordered drinks, ice-cream and scones. Service was fine at first, but had to chase up our tea, milk and crockery after a mishap with the first order. All fine in the end and we didn't mind waiting with a lovely...

Awesome breakfast view with waffles and sunshine lovely service a treat for a Sunday after the most amazing Pilates class

We have been coming to this hotel for the past few years and have never been disappointed with the orangery. From the moment you are shown to your table you just feel you’re going to have a fabulous time. The quality of choice in this...

As regular residents of this fabulous hotel, we travelled just to stop off for coffee, cake and a walk along the beach front. All of which were just perfect. As always, we were welcomed by lovely, helpful, professional staff. Highly recommended 😍

Brilliant afternoon tea service. Service and food was wonderful and the beautiful views just made it even better

If you’re looking for a slimmed down afternoon tea or are planning to have another meal at home around 5.30pm then this is the place to go. My daughter and I visited yesterday and I wish I had taken some photos as the afternoon tea...

Poor service from barman in orangery (12.30 08.04.23) Firstly we arrived and they couldn’t find our booking as there had been an error. This was fine as staff found us a seat. We were then left sitting for 20mins before my partner asked someone for...

Was really looking forward to my Mushroom and Leak Pie , not a bowl of mushroom soup with a very thin top layer of pastry

Fantastic relaxing weekend great food and service great we really enjoyed the pool and sauna Loved the beach so handy

Had a lovely time at your beautiful hotel, food was delicious and staff were very nice. The view is amazing and one of my favourite places to visit as I love to sit and admire the beauty. Will be back soon!

Service was actually shocking. We were shown a table then had to wait. We had to ask for our own menus. Then at EVERY stage of our 3 course meal, we had to wait for our plates to be cleared. The food was nice. But...

Beautiful hotel, room was spacious, clean and comfortable. Food superb, staff nice and friendly. Would recommend

Beautiful meal, with beautiful views, easy to book a table brilliant service in a lovely calm atmosphere very friendly servers.can't wait to come back, ❤️

Had lunch and dinner in The Orangery, both visits were lovely, food was warm and tasty and staff welcoming and friendly.

Very good meal and service Fish catch of the day was possibility best fish dish I’ve had. Food was first class

We celebrate the birthday for my son. He likes the hotel and food here so much. Will definitely visit again and recommend

Loved the whole experience. The review asked for staff names for who was exceptional but as staff don't wear name tags that was difficult. Great accommodation, food glorious and sea views to die for - when the mist lifted🙌

Amazing food and views over the sea, perfect for a couples night away! Would definitely come back! Thanks!

Had a brilliant visit to the hotel and restaurant for the first time. Food and service was great and the views ( before it gets dark!) are amazing. Can’t wait to go back!

Every part of our meal was served beautifully and was absolutely delicious. The service was quick, friendly and efficient.

Nice setting, good service and food, overnight stay great to watch sun setting in the evening over Arran

Great atmosphere, beautiful hotel, food excellent, wine superb . Great views . Staff are so friendly . The restaurants are so clean and tidy

Gorgeous good and great service. Seafood salad was to die for. Waiter was just lovely . No complaints

Amazing service in the Orangery. We were here to discuss our wedding details and had a fab experience.

Seamill Hydro is a great find if you want to spend an afternoon enjoying good food, good service and lovely scenery.

Brilliant will definitely be back! Lovely food and service, amazing view and atmosphere. Carrot orange and basil soup was great!

Really good menu cost and quality. Best meal I have had recently. Roast beef excellent as was gammon. Nice selection of dessert

Amazing meal, food, drinks & service!! Stayed at the hotel for dinner, bed & breakfast! Dinner was amazing & the service from Gemma in the orangery was great! Will definitely be back!

Visited with my Mum. We both had flat iron steak. I asked to substitute my chips for the house salad. They were happy to do so and the salad was delicious. Service was excellent too.

We had a very pleasant swim in the spa followed by lunch in the orangarie, staff were attentive and friendly

Food was cooked to perfection absolutely delicious. Varied choice on menu - all very reasonably priced for a la carte .

We received swim lunch vouchers as presents and had a lovely relaxing day. Every member of staff we encountered was friendly and keen to help. Lunch in the Orangery was excellent. Really good day out. Very happy to recommend.

Menu online is completely different to whats offered in restaurant, restaurant manager was less than helpful and unprofessional

The staff are always friendly and welcoming from the minute you arrive. The choice of food and drinks available is fantastic. The food is always amazing - we've been coming here regularly for 7 years now and yet to find something that isn't delicious. We'll...

Great venue and atmosphere. Delighted with quality of food and view out to the sea. Clean restaurant

A fantastic break away, coupled with a lovely dinner in the orangery. Amy was a very attentive host, nothing was a bother at all. We even requested crayons for your daughter which they hunted high and low for to provide. Food was delicious and portion...

Got great food and service despite the busy atmosphere. The fact that it was busy did not affect our experience.

We love coming here and always have an excellent experience. John, our server, was so friendly and knowledgeable. The food was excellent and prepared quickly. There was lots of choice available. We will be back again!

Great meal and service only spoiled by parents who could not control boisterous children and spoil every one else’s night , shame as that might put us off coming back to a great hotel .

We thoroughly enjoyed our visit and highly recommend the hotel. Food and accommodation - excellent! A very relaxing break.

I was staying at the hotel and gave this restaurant a try. Amazing service and food. Special thanks to the waiter John who made the experience for me .

Wonderful atmosphere and staff in this restaurant. Good food choices as well. Fish choices were excellent.

Enjoy a delicious meal that is full of flavour and expertly cooked and presented by professional staff who are aware of the customer’s needs

Dined out with my hubby and his mum and everything from arrival, treatment, food , seating, it was just perfect.

Staff were great, food was excellent. Had a lovely evening with a superb sunset as we finished dinner sitting by the window.