Bistro 21 - County Durham

We have dined at bistro many times. This time, the food was as good as ever but front of house standards seem to have slipped. Off-hand waiters and having to as... read more We have dined at bistro many times. This time, the food was as good as ever but front of house standards seem to have slipped. Off-hand waiters and having to ask for simple things like glasses for different wine. These things should be noticed and be acted upon automatically. I know that I am out of step with current thinking, but I do mourn the lack of a dress code. Jeans and sweaters? Really!! I think a little more attention to detail is required. We still had a good meal in spite of the above.

Service very slow and staff a tad pretentious. Not once did any member of staff give our table any service at all. When we asked for our bill we had to seek out... read more Service very slow and staff a tad pretentious. Not once did any member of staff give our table any service at all. When we asked for our bill we had to seek out a member of staff to come to take the payment as it sat there for ten minutes!! Usually when you ask for the bill it means you're ready to leave. This didn't reflect on the beautiful food served.

There is always a worry that the early evening set menu will consist of disappointing left overs and obviously cheaper cuts. Not here! Compares very well to the... read more There is always a worry that the early evening set menu will consist of disappointing left overs and obviously cheaper cuts. Not here! Compares very well to the best pre theatre dining in London. The pear and chicory salad and the ham and pease pudding terrine were delicious. The pork loin and the fish fillet were well cooked with rich and tasty sauces and plenty of vegetable accompaniment. The creme brulee, chocolate brownie with pistachio ice cream and the cheesecake did not disappoint. Special mention must go to the house red Cuvee by Georges Dubouef an enjoyable Beaujolais Villages as expected from this blender and excellent value at per bottle. Service was friendly and attentive without being intrusive. If you are visiting your son and daughter at the University and are looking for an evening meal I can recommend Bistro above Finbarrs and Oldfields. Don't be put off by the Tapas Bar exterior the interior is delightful! The three courses were more than ample for our rugby playing son.

I visited Bistro 21 on a Friday evening in September around 6:30pm. The restaurant looked charming from the outside, and we were met with friendly and polite st... read more I visited Bistro 21 on a Friday evening in September around 6:30pm. The restaurant looked charming from the outside, and we were met with friendly and polite staff as soon as we walked in. We took advantage of their early dining offer before 7pm, which was £16 for 2 courses or £19 for 3. The soufflé for starters was delicious, and the cod for the main course was also very tasty. I would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone seeking a lovely meal in Durham with a great atmosphere.

Before going to the restaurant, we had an excellent experience with the customer service regarding a voucher. The service during our meal was good overall, but... read more Before going to the restaurant, we had an excellent experience with the customer service regarding a voucher. The service during our meal was good overall, but the waitress did forget one of our drinks. We had Sunday lunch, which we would rate as average to good. The main course was a bit disappointing as we expected the vegetables to be served separately instead of all together on a large plate with a big Yorkshire pudding, 4 roast potatoes, and veggies alongside the meat. This was a bit overwhelming. The starters were good and the desserts were very good.