Great restaurant trip nothing like critic’s

I READ with interest your restaurant critic’s review of the restaurant Number 44, newly opened in Belfast’s Hill Street (Weekend, July 14), particularly so as my wife and I were seated a few tables from him on that day.

Like him, we were most impressed by the premises and quality of the food. We were, however, astonished by his comments regarding the proprietor’s poor welcome and service.

When we arrived, he met us at the front door with a very warm welcome and proceeded to take us through, asking us to select whatever table we liked.

He then gave us menus and asked if we would like something to drink immediately, or should he come back in a few moments when we had a chance to settle and peruse the menus.

He then came back and explained the menu, answering any queries before taking our order.

We then had a most relaxed lunch, with the proprietor occasionally inquiring if everything was satisfactory (which it was). He even went into great detail of how he locally sourced the ingredients for one dish which we had enjoyed. The pace of the lunch was perfect, although your critic thought it was too slow for a lunchtime.

I suggest he informs the restaurant of the time he has available and orders accordingly, although beautiful, freshly cooked food does take a bit of time.

Failing that, a visit to the Golden Arches might be more appropriate.

ALAN CAMPBELL By email