Riobello Restaurant - Bedford

This use to an old favorite restaurant of us many years ago before it changed the hands. we saw the alex polizzi TV program, but since then did not have the opportunity to visit. we have booked online. when we arrived, I tried to explain that we had reserved online, but the waitress did not seem disturbed, nor did she check. she wanted to tell us that the pizza oven didn't work so there were no pizzas or garlic bread etc. it was good to say before we came to our table and we appreciate it. the food was excellent and the chef came out a few times to check that everyone enjoys his meals, which was a very nice note. the waitresses were very pleasant, but seemed to have confidence in what they did. there were some confusion about our weeping mission, which was our fault. we were not offered when we arrived, and it was only after they came for our food order that we could ask for drinks. there was a pretty wait for our appetizers (tomatenbruschetta and mushroom bruschetta) and then the most important courses (tomatenwurst al forno and lasagne), but if that is what it takes to prepare the excellent food we enjoyed, then it is worth it. we also think that we are too familiar with restaurants that almost food of not particularly good quality. overall a very good experience and we will return. Perhaps the waitress could do with a little, but more workout to improve her confidence.

The restaurant used to be a bustling and charming spot with great service and food. However, since changing ownership, it has lost its charm. On a Saturday night at 8pm, there were only 8 guests in the restaurant. Our group of 6 arrived early for our reservation but had to wait a long time for drinks and for our orders to be taken. The food, when it finally arrived, was delicious but took an unacceptable amount of time. The waitress even asked if we wanted dessert before we had finished our mains. Despite the long wait, we were never informed of any delays. When we mentioned our disappointment to the manager, they simply blamed being short-staffed. Overall, we will not be returning to Riobellos or recommending it to others.

Riobello is conveniently located just south of the town center, across the main river bridge on St. Mary's Street. We made a reservation through OpenTable and upon arrival, we were greeted warmly and seated promptly. The staff was friendly and efficient, offering a diverse menu catering to meat and fish lovers, vegetarians, and those with gluten-free dietary restrictions. The food was presented beautifully and of high quality, arriving in a timely manner. Appetizers were served within 10 minutes of ordering, followed by pasta mains 30 minutes later. Prices were reasonable compared to other restaurants, though we found the wine selection slightly pricier. We arrived at 7:00 pm, when the restaurant was fairly empty, but as the evening progressed, it filled up with a lively atmosphere. With pleasant background music, we left around 9:30 pm feeling satisfied. If I ever find myself in Bedford again, I would definitely revisit Riobello and recommend it to others.

Table booked for 8.30pm, unfortunately we didn't get any food until after 10pm!! Service was definitely poor. No apology for delay was given, in fact, we were not even kept informed or offered any kind of courtesey beverage or similar. Food, when it did arrive, was of good standard. However the lack of service will definitely make me think twice before booking again.

Food tasty, service good, ambiance pleasant, chairs uncomfortable, overall overpriced by 10 to 15%. Most likely won't go again or recommend it. John Duffin