Bistro 21 - Durham

Have gone to bistro 21 and have never had a poor meal. The food is outstanding and good value especially the set menu which gives you several choices if all courses.

Before going to the restaurant, we had an excellent experience with the customer service regarding a voucher. The service during our meal was good overall, but the waitress did forget one of our drinks. We had Sunday lunch, which we would rate as average to good. The main course was a bit disappointing as we expected the vegetables to be served separately instead of all together on a large plate with a big Yorkshire pudding, 4 roast potatoes, and veggies alongside the meat. This was a bit overwhelming. The starters were good and the desserts were very good.

I visited Bistro 21 on a Friday evening in September around 6:30pm. The restaurant looked charming from the outside, and we were met with friendly and polite staff as soon as we walked in. We took advantage of their early dining offer before 7pm, which was £16 for 2 courses or £19 for 3. The soufflé for starters was delicious, and the cod for the main course was also very tasty. I would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone seeking a lovely meal in Durham with a great atmosphere.

I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the early evening set menu at this restaurant. The dishes were comparable to the best pre-theater dining in London. The pear and chicory salad, ham and pease pudding terrine, pork loin, fish fillet, and various desserts were all delicious. The wine, Cuvee 21 by Georges Dubouef, was a great value at £16 per bottle. The service was friendly and attentive. I highly recommend Bistro 21 for a meal when visiting your son and daughter at the University. Don't be deterred by the Tapas Bar exterior, as the interior is lovely. The three courses were more than satisfying, even for our rugby playing son.

We have dined at bistro many times. This time, the food was as good as ever but front of house standards seem to have slipped. Off-hand waiters and having to ask for simple things like glasses for different wine. These things should be noticed and be acted upon automatically. I know that I am out of step with current thinking, but I do mourn the lack of a dress code. Jeans and sweaters? Really!! I think a little more attention to detail is required. We still had a good meal in spite of the above.