The Bell Inn Hotel, Stilton

"Lunch on Friday 12th April"

As a result of there being a reception in the restaurant on this day, we booked a table in the bar. The service upon arrival was very good and we ordered our food at 1pm. We all ordered from the small plates' menu, but after a full hour we had not received anything, whilst other, larger groups seemed to be getting theirs within 20 minutes or so. When we asked why we were being ignored, we were told that it was because we were having both hot and cold food and that required more than one cooking station. Rather a pathetic excuse, showing that whoever was running the kitchen had no idea of how to call out orders to be delivered together. A work experience trainee could have done better. We cancelled part of our order, as two of us had to be away and on the road by 14:30, and called for the bill. When it came, the Bar Manager was full of apologies and did give us a discount, which was generous of her, but ultimately there is a training issue her for the kitchen staff. We like it at the Bell normally and it was our first choice for our daughter's wedding 16 years ago, so this experience was a one-off and hopefully, will not be repeated.

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