It is important to remember that for every bad review there are probably lots of satisfied customers. These reviews are the comments of individual visitors to Information Britain and have not been authenticated by us. They should not be taken as the views of Crawbar Ltd - publishers of this web site.

Reviews of Bistro 21, Durham

Best rates for a Local Hotel

Review by Nadine Thomson on 2nd May, 2007

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I ate here when visiting Durham for a weekend in April. Overall it was a very disappointing experience. Service was ok but not terrific. The food here is below average for the price. Starters of oysters and salmon spring rolls were nice but not special.I had a main of confit of duck which was dry and bland. My partner's steak ordered rare, came medium and the meat was of very average quality. The bill for 2 courses and 1 bottle of average price wine was over £120. I would expect to pay this for exceptional food but not for the very average fare we were served. We had a better meal in one of local restaurants in Durham the next day for under half the price.

Date visited: 13/04/07

Review by Peter Stephenson on 21st November, 2006

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As a first time visitor I found the food excellent however the much vaunted service, whilst semi - efficient (no bread set on the table) did not rate the 10% service charge "added" to the bill. Given the performance I would say that 5% would have been adequate. If eating there again I will ask that service charge is not appended as a "disgressionary" payment to the tab. The thought of an arguement over a few quid took the edge of a well cooked meal.

Date visited: 17/11/06

Review by John Hancill on 26th March, 2006

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A dining room which was pleasing to look at but over-crowded with tables, to the point where waiters juggled trays of food over the top of sitting diners. It didn't help that my table was right in front of the entrance which was constantly passed, and kicked, by waiters and diners alike. Food and wine was of a good quality and variety, but I didn't appreciate the 'discretionary' 10% added to the bill, particularly after being rushed through starters and main in 30 mins,with the whole 'evening out' lasting under two hours. We felt like there was no option but to leave much quicker than we had anticipated. I have no problem in offering 15% to 20% gratuity for good or excellent service,

Date visited: 25th March 2006

Review by scott moore on 4th March, 2006

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what a cool place to go and eat. i say this i enjoyed my meal. i used to work here for a bit

Date visited: 11/2/1983

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