As part of our birthday treat my friend booked a pre-theatre set menu meal at Arbutus. When we arrived the staff were friendly and welcoming, they offered to talk our coats to the cloakroom, which we declined but hindsight we may have used this service as we had very little room at our table.

The table we were offered was very closely placed between two couples trying to enjoy a romantic evening. We found it very difficult to hear our own conversation as everyone else has to speak very loudly to hear their partners.

We were left for a considerable amount of time before anyone came to take our order and when they did they were not as friendly towards us compared to the service other diners were receiving. When our wine finally arrived they had given us a caraffe rather than a bottle as requested. Our veggie starter and main courses were okay, but nothing amazing. However when it came to order the cheese cake (which is what we were really looking forward too!) they had run out and the alternative options were very poor. We ended up with poached pear, toffee ice cream sprinkled with burnt sesame seeds. I also received my dessert 20 minutes after my friend.

No attempt was made to explore my reasons for refusing to pay the service charge. It felt like this restaurant wasn't bothered about our experience and we left feeling very annoyed about the service which we received at Arbutus and will definitely not be returning.

One to avoid…