Missing something - review added on Sat 10th May 2003

I have been going to Bells Diner for over 12 years and always tell friends how good it is.I went earlier this week and was disappointed - the dishes seemed overpriced and generally pretentious - too fussy and not enough of it. For someone with a generally small appetite, I didn't hesitate to have desert as I was by no means full at that stage - not my usual situation. The service was SLOW - over an hour to get the first course and over half an hour at the end before we had to find the waiter to ask for the bill - it was never offered (neither was coffee!). I hope they take note of this and return to the usual high standards that I have experienced over the years every time I've eaten there.

Overall:	4
Food:	4
Service:	4
Ambiance:	8

---

Ideas above their station - review added on Mon 19th Jun 2006

The menu was interesting and adventurous, but unfortunately the food did not live up to the promise. The main dish was bland and the vegetables overcooked.Strange combinations of food that I can see are interesting ideas, but should never make it onto the menu.Avoid the 'foam', which is unfortunately spread throughout the menu. It is no surprise I have never seen it on any other menu.

Overall:	4
Food:	4
Service:	8
Ambiance:	8

---

Just a glitch - review added on Tue 24th Apr 2007

I've just read a review from someone who obviously went to Bell's on a rare bad hair day! We've always been very lucky - attentive service, imaginative food, a wonderfully knowledgeable and enthusiastic sommelier. The menu dégustation is a snip, and unlike most such offerings, the wines suggested are very carefully chosen to match the food and not poured in millilitres! Some of the dishes are exotic and may not be to everyone's taste but they are always interesting and the flavours based on traditional dishes.

Overall:	10
Food:	10
Service:	10
Ambiance:	10

Recommended Dishes: Sea bass

---

Best in Bristol - review added on Wed 9th May 2007

I've been going to Bell's for six or seven years now and have yet to be disappointed. The menu is largely progressive but leavened with a few bistro classics as well, so there's always the option of magnificent "comfort food"if you don't feel too adventurous. The service is friendly and competent without being overbearing. The wine list is extensive and reasonably priced. The whole outfit is just really, really good.If you've ever heard of the Fat Duck (where, incidentally, foam may be found on the menu, with reference to the complete muppet earlier) then think of Bell's as Bristol's equivalent. I genuinely preferred the tasting menu at Bell's as being a bit more meal-ish than the succession of playthings I got at the Duck. Just check their menu out, book a table and enjoy!

Overall:	10
Food:	10
Service:	8
Ambiance:	8

Recommended Dishes: Cote de Bouef, Braised Pig's Cheek with Squid, Banana Souffle

---