The Kilbroney Bar And Restaurant

While spending the night in Rostrevor, my husband and I found ourselves at the only restaurant open on a Monday night. Initially, we were not expecting much, especially after a demanding 12-mile hike to get there. However, to our delight, the meal turned out to be fantastic and surpassed our expectations. We were left wishing the restaurant would be open the next day so we could dine there again. The service and food were both outstanding!

I was in town for a couple days break from Belfast. Have been to Rostrevor many times and usually eat in the excellent Rostrevor Inn but sadly they were not open this Monday. So I tried the Kilbroney Inn. As soon as I walked in, I knew it wasn't going to be a great experience. No greeting; told the bar staff (older woman that I'd like to get a meal. She couldn't have cared less. I followed up by asking for a menu, then took a seat and had a good 15 minute wait before anyone bothered with me. The lackluster service continued up to the moment I took myself back to the bar and asked for the bill, then waited until the slightly more helpful waitress came to deal with it. The whole vibe was unfriendly, like I was disturbing the staff in the middle of something far more important. I watched two other tables, clearly tourists, get much the de treatment...Maybe the place is better if you're a local but there was certainly no charm for the rest of us. The menu has the usual fare...actually, almost identical to the Rostrevor Inn's. (The physical menu has about as much appeal as a phone book; some money spent on a designer qouldnt go amiss! I got a burger and skinny chips. It was not inedible, especially if (like me you knew you didn't have any more appealing option nearby! But it wasn't good either Burger overcooked and tasteless; chips with a slight film of grease. I had planned to stay for a couple of pints before heading back to my room, but honestly, the whole thing was an uncomfortable experience.

Had a fabulous meal yesterday evening. The staff were very helpful. A great find in Rostrevor. Karen Gary Grace and Noah.

Started well with decent wine and starters. Spring rolls, chicken wings and prawn cocktail. Then it went downhill. I ordered a Thai Green curry with rice and naan bread. What I got was Chinese chicken curry with ciabatta! I informed the waitress who offered to change the dish. My company had already started their main so I said I 'd keep what I ordered but was not happy with it. After the meal, although only 4 other tables were still in use, no one offered a dessert menu nor another drink. Waitress eventually came to clear table and asked if everything was ok. I asked for the bill. Was appalled to see the curry being charged for even though I 'd made clear it was NOT Thai curry. Upon paying at the bar, a pleasant barman asked same. I repeated what I 'd told the waitress and was asked if I 'd like to speak to the manager. I refused as I did not want a fuss. But I did expect as a gesture of goodwill, they would have at least knocked something off the 70 quid bill without confrontation! Won 't be back. The one star is for the wine.

We enjoyed two tasty meals at this restaurant. The atmosphere was pleasant and lively, and our waitress, Angela, was exceptional in taking care of our needs during both visits. This was especially appreciated as I had my 84-year-old mother with me.