Colbert

As a local, I’ve been to Colbert a few times, always hoping it will finally live up to its reputation. Unfortunately, yesterday was no different. The whole experience feels transactional rather than welcoming. The host is consistently unapproachable. Unfriendly, unsmiling, and setting the tone for the rest of the visit. Most of the waiting staff (with the exception of a lovely Black lady) looked bored and disengaged. Our table wasn’t cleaned properly between dishes, and no napkins were offered with dessert. Are guests meant to wipe their mouths on the tablecloth? Service was inexplicably slow, especially given the restaurant was half empty. We were seated by the window, where a strong draught made the temperature genuinely unpleasant. The waiter shrugged and said there was nothing he could do. The crowd is mixed: from people quietly enjoying their dinner, to entitled families who shout their way through the meal as if they're in their living room. We were unlucky enough to be next to the latter. The food is hit or miss. The beetroot salad was forgettable: small and lacking flavour. The steak entrecôte was fine but unremarkable, and the fries were burnt and overcooked. The banana split was the only thing that genuinely impressed. Every time I return, I hope the experience will have improved. It never does.