The Aqua Grand Cafe

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS They’re clever at Aqua. Each time I’ve been to their restaurant in Whiteladies Road I’ve loved the consistently good food and the ‘VIP’ service which, disappointingly for me, everyone seems to get; but now I’m impressed with how they maintain their high standards yet have the flexibility to adapt according to popular demand. Back in January this year, as an already well established and popular rendezvous, the venue underwent a tasteful refurbishment with a new identity as a smart French Brasserie offering an ‘haute cuisine’ menu. This was and still is very much welcomed by loyal and appreciative gastronomes but to the delight of many regular customers the management has now re-introduced some of the previous, less exotic, top choices. For example on a hot day a couple of weeks ago a friend and I wanted a quick lunch and managed to book a table under a large parasol on the sun-trap terrace; still in keeping with the French influence I chose Moules Mariniere as a starter; a generous portion of fresh, piping hot, plump mussels covering a divine ‘soup’ of white wine, cream, chopped onion, butter and herbs for just £9.00; for £8.50 my companion had pork belly bites in a sticky barbecue sauce; having pinched a couple of hers to try, when I come again I’m going to have a double portion. There’s a wide range of pizzas, salads, burgers and steaks and a terrific value set lunch at £17.50 which includes mains options of grilled seabass and the ever popular half rotisserie chicken marinated in lemon and herbs with fries. So depending on your mood or the time you have to spare you can have the best of both worlds – you can dine ‘haute cuisine’ or enjoy every day classics - clever – and all bloody delicious (‘scuse my French).

A wonderful evening spent here to celebrate 5 graduations! Extraordinarily well looked after by the fantastic Ellie and the rest of the team, nothing was too much for her despite being extremely busy, and her genuine interest and care are rare traits. Food was excellent, and Aqua were very accommodating to different dietary requirements.

One of the finest dining experiences we have had. We visited from the U.S. and enjoyed every aspect of the experience. For our anniversary we dined at a Michelin star restaurant, our experience at Aqua exceeded that restaurant. Every moment was exceptional, from reception, seating, service and quality of food! The only complaint is every item on the menu was appealing and it was very difficult to decide. The staff was exceptional, the food was even more exceptional and we would not hesitate to return. We would extend our deepest gratitude to everyone involved in our dining experience for ensuring every moment was absolutely perfect!

This is truly superb after the refurb & change of cuisine. The decor is good; front of house staff dress & behave as though it’s a five-star hotel. (I had coffee there. My mother who’s eaten there says it’s excellent and they coped v well with her requirements (Coeliac)). There’s pavement outdoor seating..Comfy chairs.. Can thoroughly recommend.