Courts opens in Cogan
Luxury dining & champagne terraces
The long awaited opening of Courts Bar & Resteraunt is finally here! The venue's first night open to the public saw them catering to a large number of family and friends of the owner, bloggers, foodies, Instagramers and local residents. Eagerly anticipated customers made their way through the ample parking spaces and were greeted by the beautifully re-landscaped entrance gardens. Historic trees and shrubs (as well as the building) were well lit by designer lighting, enticing the customers in.
Upon entry, the front of house staff were polite and welcoming. The newly renovated interior was impressive with hues of pink juxtaposed against the historic multicoloured exposed brickwork. There were a number of different areas for diners on the ground floor and across different first floor levels. Top marks for use of space: it did not feel overcrowded or too sparse. Fresh paint, new carpets, comfortable seating and impressive lighting fixtures really set the scene for a classy dining experience.
The drinks menu catered for all, having a good selection of cocktails, bottles, shorts and wines. The price point of the drinks matched the atmosphere and the interior. Glasses of wine circa £4, Beers £5 and a standard cocktail costing upwards of £12. Drinks arrived promptly and were as requested, however the cocktail ordered tasted a little on the weak side. It was 'nice' but could have been stronger in flavour. That said, top marks for presentation. Good, clean glasses and lovely garnishing.
Food arrived promptly (both starters, mains and deserts). Referring back to the price point, which arguably was high, the quality did not meet expectations. When the cost of a main is £30, it would be expected that the food was prepared from scratch to order. Whilst it is impossible to prove, it seems impossible for a lamb shank to be cooked in 15-20 minutes. It was apparent that the only way the food could be served this fast, would be to heat it through, using a microwave. Similarly, the halloumi sticks appeared to be pre-prepared. They tasted artificial and were definitely not freshly fried. It is important to note however, that neither of these food points would be an issue provided the price was appropriate. Unfortunately, the price being relatively high, the market positioning of the restaurant and the food being as it was, meant that the standard expected was not met. Food sadly did not remain hot for the duration: most likely because the plates were lukewarm. Again, based on price point (and the ease of rectification) standards were not quite met.
In summary, Courts offers a good experience, better catered for drinking. It has a great atmosphere and is a welcomed addition to Cogan, Penarth and the surrounding area. The food either needs to be bought up to standard or the price lowered to reflect its quality.
