The Pavilion Restaurant: An Informed Shopper's Guide

Why You Should Visit

• For Delicious Food: You'll find the food is generally highly praised. The breakfast, especially the eggs benedict with high-quality sourdough toast, is reportedly excellent. Shoppers have raved about the Monkfish Curry and steak salad. The cinnamon rolls with fresh berries are also recommended.
• Exceptional Coffee: The coffee is a consistent highlight, described as "really lovely" and "really great."
• A Combined Experience: The location offers a unique combination of a restaurant with a homewares and garden centre. This allows you to enjoy a meal and then browse for plants or other items.
• Excellent Service (Sometimes): While service can be inconsistent (see below), many reviewers highlight great service. One shopper praised a staff member, Joseph, for accommodating a last-minute seating. Another described helpful and friendly staff members across the garden centre, BBQ area, and restaurant, noting their knowledge and genuine interest.
• Garden Centre Delights: After your meal, you can explore the garden centre and purchase plants. You might find a "fabulous starter plant" at a good price.
• BBQ Expertise: The location has a BBQ section. Staff can offer assistance and information about BBQ setups, including delivery and setup guidance for items like the Weber BBQ. One shopper highlighted the courtesy and professionalism of the delivery service.
• Magical Atmosphere: The venue provides a delightful atmosphere year-round. In Christmas, the atmosphere is noted as magical.
• Glasshouse Experience: If you're lucky enough to get a table in the glasshouse, it's a memorable experience. One shopper was thankful for being seated there.

Why You Might Consider Alternatives

• Inconsistent Service: Be aware that service can be slow and chaotic. Some shoppers experienced long wait times for tables and drinks. There were issues with the booking system, with some people having their tables unavailable despite reservations. Some shoppers experienced uninterested servers and a lack of attention, such as not receiving drink orders promptly.
• Food Quality Concerns: There are instances of food arriving inedible, with one review citing undercooked bacon, a congealed yellow mass, and tastelessness.
• Pricey Food: The restaurant is considered pricey.
• Potential for Flies: Recent reviews indicate a problem with flies in the indoor areas, with bakeries being exposed.
• Limited Vegan Options: If you're vegan, you might find limited options. One review mentioned "nothing for me as vegan" and described the chips as inedible and the carrot cake as tasteless.
• Warm Environment: Be aware that the "under glass" section can be very warm. One shopper noted it was warm inside, but the indoor area was cool and tranquil.