The Bistro is to be congratulated on its recent refurbishment. It now has a more welcoming, intimate feel. The menu is also to be lauded, as always employing a mix of original and classic combinations.
I was however very disapointed by the service. Starter and first course arrived in quick succession and we were asked whether we would need any more drinks as the bar was about to shut (Why does the bar need to shut?). Within a couple of minutes of the main course arriving the lights were raised dramatically. It’s difficult to conjure the effect of this in the light of day, but it is tantamount to ushering someone into a comfortable chair and then pointing a spotlight in their face and asking them to stand up and leave. This had a visible effect on the chap sitting at the table next to us – who, fortunately for him, had finished his food. He looked rather embarrassed and hurried away. At the same time (we are still just beginning our main course) a waitress appeared and asked if we would require a dessert, as the kitchen was closing. This clearly invites a “no”, so we declined. A colleague immediately appeared and started to spray disinfectant onto the recently vacated adjacent table. We get the strong message that these people ALL need to leave, all at the same time for some reason – money and reputation no object. And it’s not even 9pm yet!
Why would they deliberately harass people in this way? These sort of tactics have their place in a pub that is forcing people out of the door at closing time. In most restaurants the Maitre D’ takes full responsibility for his last customers – serving desserts, digestifs etc until they are ready to leave. In some establishments this is a matter of pride for the management - people leave with a smile and a cheery goodbye long after the kitchen has closed. We came to the Bistro for a treat and were were sent home early with indigestion!
Digby Trout is a chain of restaurants that are located in many of London's premier tourist attractions. They serve modern European cuisine and are open for lunch and dinner. Serving a variety of modern British dishes influenced by Continental flavours, Balcony Bistro is also part of this chain and can cater for private parties of up to 120 people and provides outside seating on the terrace.