Barnsdale Lodge Dining - Rutland

My husband I decided to treat ourselves to a saturday night meal at this lovely local hotel restaurant.We did pre book rather than just leave it to chance,which was probably wise as when we arrived there was a wedding party next door.On arrival we were shown to the restaurant decided to have a drink first in the adjacent bar as we were early for our 6.30pm reservation.The barman was very friendly helpful. A gentleman who we presume was in charge of the restaurant then appeared said he was showing us to the table,before walking off (no offer to carry the drinks or check if we were following him).The wedding had obviously put them under pressure as less than half the tables were set for dinner (the remainder already laid out for breakfast).We were given menus then very quickly expected to place our order.The whole evening felt as if we were being rushed through there was a distinct froideur in the atmosphere,with our gentleman serving us being quite curt aloof.On a positive note the food was absolutely delicious there was an excellent choice of reasonably priced wine (for a hotel).Purely on a personal level,I also strongly disagree with restaurants who automatically put a 10% service charge on the bill not because I wouldn't normally tip,but I feel the customer should decide.As we left the restaurant,the gentleman who had served us was at the desk,but didn't even look up nor wish us Good evening,which was disappointing. We would go back again,but hope next time it will be a warmer welcome

After a long drive we decided to rest up here and have dinner. We weren’t very hungry and breakfast was included next morning. Drank local ale from Grainstore Brewery whilst waiting for dinner time. Selection of wine was vast and we had large glass of rose each. We then ordered 2 nibbles, home made hummus and roasted garlic pardon peppers. Both lovely. Chose 2 starters, bacon and black pudding salad and cheese soufflé. Both delicious. Ending our dinner with raspberry macaroon and local cheese. Fantastic staff making our experience all more enjoyable.

We returned for the first time since we got married here in May 2021, for a romantic Valentine’s Day meal. The venue is perfectly intimate, all the staff but particularly Liz, Connie Warren are super friendly and welcoming, and we have never been disappointed with the food here, which is always super tasty! We had carrot coriander soup, and Chateaubriand Steak for two tonight which was unbelievable! I really wanted pudding but was way too stuffed! We are already planning our next visit!

Many years since eating here but environment and service still delightful on a cold February night Menus choice was limited and quite basic. Probably fine for hotel guests eating there but not worth travelling in from elsewhere in Rutland. Chosen food was ok but also pretty basic in presentation and flavour. Suspect this might be about the general shortages of chefs right now. However the annoyance was the cost for an uninspiring evening overall. Would have preferred the honest and cheap pie specials they used to run in January and February in the past.

Superb lunch today in the garden room. Food was first rate and the desserts sumptuous...particularly the Vegan/ gluten free berry cheesecake. The pepper sauce with our steaks was exceptional.Despite atrocious weather the room feels bright,warm and sunny.All the staff were welcoming and helpful.Coffee in the lounge was relaxing.A good start for us all after lockdown!