I was really looking forward to dining here with my family, both as an early Christmas treat. Based not only on online reviews but recommendations from friends and colleagues too, the Copper Kitchen seemed a cut above the wealth of rival establishments in the area.
Plus points first; the waiting staff were mostly friendly and the decor cosy. The pork belly was wonderfully tender with little fat and the mash and veg complimented it well. As for dessert, the crumble was plentiful with fruit and the custard fine and creamy.
I am struggling now to find further positives because the overall experience wasn't one to remember favourably.
The staff, though largely polite and helpful, seemed unfamiliar with the situation regarding the festive ordering. One admitted that they were new and didn't understand how it all worked and there seemed general confusion as to what items were valid, when, and to whom. Despite advance ordering three two-course festive meals they disputed this when it came to payment and in the end charged separately for one starter.
There was also a long wait for condiments as our food started to get cold. Why salt and pepper isn't already present on the tables is a mystery.
The starter was served with the main against our wishes, so either there was a breakdown in comms with the kitchen or they simply didn't listen.
From a hygiene and health perspective it was a concern to notice later in the evening that the bottle the tap water was served in had spots of black mould on the seal, some of which were evident within the water. And lastly, the ladies toilet had no soap or hand towels.
I note that other negative comments have been met with an unnecessarily indignant tone, as if the restaurant is above such feedback. Sometimes complacency can creep in when the large percentage of reviews are generally four or five stars, which can cause the business to respond aggressively to those who raise constructive issues.
It's never wise to publicly accuse previous customers of lying so I sincerely hope that the owners take this review on board in a more professional manner, and instead resolve to ensure others don't have a similar experience because these problems are easily rectifiable.
It's been a hard enough few years for the hospitality industry, and with numerous restaurants to choose from within walking distance of the Copper Kitchen, alienating customers is not a sound policy.
This isn't a budget restaurant and I expected more from one that places itself in a bistro category with prices to match. When I am effectively overcharged as well, regardless of the quality of the aforementioned pork belly, it does leave something of a bad taste in the mouth.
RESPONSE TO COPPER KITCHEN?s COMMENTS; I have no idea what you are referring to with regards ?multiple reviews? as I have placed just one here - so it appears you have a tendency to accuse your customers of lying, simply because you have difficulty handling negative feedback.
My review was considered and a generous 2 stars under the circumstances - be grateful for that.
In terms of raising issues at the time, they were, so why did you not come and talk to us yourself instead of hiding away somewhere out of sight? As it is your staff ruined what should have been a pleasant family experience - yet you seem to care more about getting five star reviews than maintaining high standards.
You can never be sure who you are serving in your restaurant and I resent the tone you have adopted.
If any ?hurt ? is done to your reputation perhaps you should look a little closer to home, keep the complacency and lies in check and maybe some customer service training wouldn?t go amiss. After 11 years in the business I?d expect far higher standards from you and your staff.
Parking: Some spaces a short walk away which will require payment during daytime. Some are free after 6pm.
December 2024 by Krish Bryant
Ordered from Festive menu for a family meal and asked if I could add a starter to it as it has 2 to 3 courses. The waitress said that?s fine so I ordered a starter that was also available on the main menu. Was told if it?s not on the main menu they wouldn?t be able to accommodate because they have to order the ingredients. I asked for it to be bought before the main. They obviously ask the questions and don?t listen to the answers. The starter came with the main ?. So had to rush to eat that and did not get to enjoy it one bit!! All she could say was sorry!! They kept asking if we had finished when we had not. Even saw them taking a plate away from the couple next to us to be told they had not finished!!
When the bill was presented at the end they charged the full price for the starter!!! When I said it was supposed to be part of the festive menu,I was told I should have pre-ordered it!!! That is not what they said when I ordered it earlier!! Food was ok not great and service was appalling. Will not be returning.
Actually in response to the restaurant, that is a complete lie the waitress asked if I wanted it before and I made I clear I wanted it before the main! Also I had asked her about having the starter on as part of the festive menu and she said yes otherwise I would not have ordered it!
I will not be recommending your restaurant to others.
December 2024 by Lloyd Waddup
Four of us went for a birthday meal.
Never been before so was really looking forward to it.
Really disappointing!.
The steaks that we wanted weren't available, only ones available were of course, the most expensive!.
Starters (bbq chicken thighs) was tastless.
Then had to wait for over 30 minutes for our mains.
Steak was the worst I've had anywhere.
Sadly very disappointing and won't return.
September 2024 by Shan T (Shan)
Compliments to the chef! The lamb shoulder was our absolute favourite. As well as incredible food in this quant restaurant, our waitress Mia was not only friendly and warm but you can see also takes great pride in her job - showing a deep knowledge of the menu and she was spot on! Would highly recommend this place - deserving of 5 stars.
September 2024 by Cheryl Kao
Lovely neighborhood restaurant! The owner who is also the chef was very friendly and accommodated all of our dietary restrictions. The sea bass and rib eye were really tasty. Would definitely come back again!
September 2024 by Suzie Stokes
Loved it! We booked late because parking is not the best we were a bit late for our booking, everyone was lovely about this and put us at ease immediately. The lovely waitresses were very attentive but not pushy, and the owner even came and had a chat to us just before we left, as we were the last to leave.
Dietary restrictions: I am gluten-free and my partner has a nut allergy, the staff were very helpful pointing out what could be done gluten-free and what could not.
Parking: Parking is available on the street but is limited, there is ample parking in the multistorey by I Sainsbury?s, only you need to ensure that you take the right exit from the car park towards the High Street otherwise you will get completely turned around and get lost like we did.
September 2024 by Navin Mal
Really enjoyable visit, great food and excellent service! Would definitely visit again when in Bicester.
September 2024 by Chaandni Devgon
We popped in for dinner before driving back to London after a shopping excursion! The team were amazing and so friendly and the food was amazing and the service was with a smile! Seabass was sensation and the linguine is probably one of that I have eaten! Thank you so much! We will be back again soon hopefully!
September 2024 by Arron Kang
My girlfriend loves the duck confit with the Argentinian Malbec! I always get the filet steak and mushrooms. it?s divine and cooked to perfection don?t sleep on this place!
August 2024 by Victoria Smith
Lovely place
Kid-friendliness: Visisted with our two boys aged 10 and 12 made to feel very welcome
July 2024 by Hrundl Gamer
The food at Copper Kitchen is always very good. The staff are welcoming and the restaurant looks clean and well organised.
Since the restaurant opened, the seating area has expanded, which is testament to Copper Kitchen's success. This is either the best or joint-best (nod to Denis) restaurant in Bicester.
June 2024 by Amanda Altman
We really enjoyed our dinner here. The steak was a bit over cooked but still tasty. The fries were delicious. Very enjoyable. We also had a vegan friend who was able to get the pasta dairy free which was really nice.
