Todd Sloane in Epping Forest

A friend and I went for a meal last Monday 30th January. We arrived at 8.15pm and our order was taken very quickly, but not one thing was right. Both my friend and I ordered the vegetable and pasta soup, which on a positive note was delicious. However, my friend did not receive his at the same time. He waited patiently, then after ten minutes asked where it was. The waiter apologised, admitting he had forgotten. I had finished mine by then as my friend had asked me not to wait for him. For the main course, my friend ordered the vegan spaghetti bolognaise and I ordered pizza. My friend said his meal was tasteless and could have been hotter, and my pizza was barely warm, so I sent it back. I was promptly told that nothing could be done as the kitchen was closed (at 10 past 9?) so I mentioned that surely he still had access to a microwave. He commented that they don’t usually put pizzas in the microwave (Erm - I wanted it warmed up) but he did. For too long, though, as it was tough and inedible, so left it. We also asked for a jug of water. Along came a small jug despite there being two of us, and two dirty glasses, so we asked for two clean ones, which were then provided and should have been provided in the first place. Back to the jug, it was clearly a jug for one and not enough water for a whole glass each. For dessert, I ordered tiramisu and my friend ordered cheesecake, both of which were fine, but we had expected dessert spoons to eat with, not teaspoons… We had a 25% off voucher, which was why we chose Prezzo, but we will not be choosing the Buckhurst Hill branch again. The staff seemed in a rush to get rid of the customers who were left, so we didn’t order coffee, nor did we leave a tip, nor will we be returning, despite not being charged for the pizza I didn’t actually get to eat. Appalling service from a well-known and reputable chain.

We had the pleasure of being served by Tess during our visit, and she was absolutely fantastic. Incredibly accommodating and attentive, Tess made sure we had everything we needed without ever being overbearing. She struck the perfect balance between friendly and professional, making us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. A truly great host—she definitely added to the overall experience. Highly recommend!

Typical Cafe Nero - good coffee and pastries.

Pore. Couldn’t even get a Kebab roll right. Wrong meet very basic salad and naan bread swimming in sauce.

Proper pub, great food (amazing chunky chips and dippy eggs) and a really genuinely friendly and cheerful staff. Would certainly recommend for lunch and a pint.