31 Southgate St, Gloucester GL1 1TP

About This Pub

Oh, Café René in Gloucester is one of those places that just sticks with you, isn't it? From what I've gathered from the buzz around it, the food is a real standout – proper, wholesome dishes like lamb curry and beef stew that are packed with flavour and come in portions that'll have you loosening your belt a notch. It's got that warm, welcoming feel with staff who go out of their way to make sure you're enjoying yourself, and the atmosphere is brilliant, what with the live music and all sorts of events that keep things lively. Whether it's catching a band or just soaking in the unique vibes from the stone well and decor, it's a spot that feels like a proper escape in the city centre. But, let's be honest, it's not perfect – there have been a few tales of food not quite hitting the mark, like a steak turning up undercooked and taking ages to sort out, which could put a dampener on things if you're hoping for a seamless meal. Still, with such a strong overall rating and glowing feedback, I'd say it's well worth a visit for anyone after a good laugh and a bite, just maybe keep expectations in check for peak times.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • The food is absolutely delicious and hearty – think generous portions of lamb curry or beef stew that really hit the spot.
  • The staff are so friendly and welcoming, always ready with a smile and attentive service that makes you feel right at home.
  • It's got a fantastic atmosphere with live music, DJ nights, and unique features like a stone well and cool ceiling that add real character.
  • They host loads of events, from poetry nights to festivals, making it a lively spot for a great night out in Gloucester.
Cons
  • There can be occasional slip-ups with food, like a steak not being cooked as asked, which might leave you waiting a bit longer.
  • Service might drag on busy evenings, as they focus on quality over speed, so it's not the place if you're in a rush.

Contact Information

31 Southgate St, Gloucester GL1 1TP
+441452309340
Pub
Closed

Opening Hours

Monday11:00 - 00:00
Tuesday (Today)11:00 - 00:00
Wednesday11:00 - 00:00
Thursday11:00 - 00:00
Friday11:00 - 02:30
Saturday11:00 - 03:00
Sunday11:00 - 00:00

Location

Recent Reviews

Wrote a review a few weeks ago and saying how nice it was, But after being really let down on Thursday night, My steak which was supposed to be M/W done came out rare, It then took ages to get 2nd time, My partner finished his meal, When I got my steak again chips over cooked and steak was really chewy, Couldn't eat the meal, Not happy.. So friends booked in for a meal here and we got invited and again was awful, A free pudding was offered as not been able to eat meal a chocolate brownie was chosen, Well it was burnt and very bland, A member of staff tried it and also said it wasn't good so we left very disappointed, When owner was informed he said nothing just walked away and have now decided will only use for drinking from now on as the food is no good.. So having come back because family and friends book here each time its still been bad. Tonight 14/7/22 we decided to try again but this was the worst the steak was awful, even the staff said they keep getting complaints from others about the food, Apparently Ryan and Nathan don't like being chefs and seriously don't want to be there said the staff, I feel so disappointed as wanted to be perfect instead I had to buy a sandwich from tesco next door, I will never recommend this place, Only things good about it are the selection of drinks and the two lovely staff Kat and Angelo, Very upset with tonight.. They said they would get bar manager to ring me today 15/7/22 and he didn't so even more disappointed.. Thought not been for a while and try again but it was still just as bad on 19/11/22 portions are smaller and put prices up, so thought won't have steak again as they can't get it right so had chicken, Leek, Ham pie well the puff pastry just evaporated I had 4 tiny bits of chicken 1 cube of ham and a small bit of Leek oh and 8 chips, my partner fish and chips he said weren't that good. Its a shame as used to be an amazing place to eat.. We don't eat here still but do like to go for drink here. Staff are always welcoming and friendly and now they have opened the bar out its so much bigger and easier to get to the bar.. Talking to one of the staff last night 02/02/2023 they welcoming any new suggestions. Did notice that they have a specials board in the restaurant which did look nice. Still recommend just for pleasant warm pub.. So went in last night 14/02/2023 and booked in the restaurant having had bad meals before was a bit weary of eating, but booked in as partners parents like it there.. Service was really good and when we all received our meals they were hot and really lovely.. 2 had ham eggs and chips and both were satisfied, 1 had fish and chips and again was happy. Having had a nice meal last week decided we would go back this week so last night 23/02/2023 we discovered that they don't know the meaning of consistency the mash on top fish pie was anaemic and the veg was not cooked so raw it squeaked in my mouth, Gammon was pink and tough, the steak that was ordered M/W was M/R but more rare than medium.. Safe to say we have called time on eating there which is a shame as used to be so good for food.. Well no longer chicken, leek pie. The menu is very limited and not that appealing. Boards seem to stay the same. Become pricey. They do a deal coupon but really not worth it..
SH
Sarah Harleyquinn
One of the best restaurants I’ve ever been to. Lovely staff, proper food, and an awesome atmosphere. They even have a little lift for food! If you come to Gloucester, this is definitely worth a visit.
RB
Robbi Betts
This place is wonderful. I tried the lamb curry and the beef stew - both were absolutely delicious, with generous portions that left us more than satisfied. The service was warm and welcoming throughout. It’s the kind of place where every nook has a story, from the stone well in the center to the wine bottle-lined ceiling - a perfect blend of rustic charm. Housed in a historic building, it has a cozy, character-rich atmosphere that makes the entire dining experience feel special and memorable.
KK
Krisper Kreme
We fell upon this restaurant today. I don’t review often! This place was too good not to. The food was so tasty and hot. I had Lamb curry. The ambience was just lovely and the very waitress was very friendly and attentive. We will definitely be revisiting to have some more of this gorgeous food.
VR
Victoria Randall
We came here today for the first time for my partners 25th birthday and WOW it did not disappoint. The food was incredible and was more than what we expected. Nice little seating area with a really cool ceiling. Staff are lovely and helpful and also very welcoming. We will definitely be coming again as we were extremely impressed.
TJ
Tia Jordan

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