Having chosen Santoros for our Christmas do our events organizer was tasked with booking a table. When she announced that everything was sorted and that our group of 9 ladies was booked in for 6.15 I queried this as I was certain that I had seen the opening time on the website as 6.30." No no" she replied its definitely booked for 6.15! Oh well must be my mistake, clearly I can't read.

On the evening in question we left work and descended on Yarm in our convoy of vehicles and met back up in a nearby pub. At 6.15 we left and walked along the high street to Santoros only to find it locked up and in darkness. Why? Because it doesn't open until 6.30 of course!

At this point we all looked rather silly in our Christmas finery with a Santa sack full of our secret Santa gifts waiting outside a closed restaurant. The evening wasn't going as planned!

We were a little worried when a rather friendly gentleman approached us and asked us what we were doing? However when our events organiser( who will talk to anyone!) explained the problem he cheerfully announced that he worked in the kitchen and would give someone a ring to let us in, which he duly did. Within a couple of minutes another gentleman arrived by car and opened up.

Drinks were ordered and whilst we looked over the menu choices apologies for the misunderstanding were made. When we had been shown to our table an older gentleman who I believe is the owner came over and again apologised, explaining that it was his mistake, he had taken the booking. As penance he agreed to play Santa and dish out our gifts. He was really lovely, as were the other staff members. The food was tasty and the service excellent. What could have been a ruined evening was turned around very quickly.

We all agreed that we would be happy to return again.

The service is very very good and fast. Does get very busy and quite noisy but a lot of atmosphere. The mussels are one to look out for also the sea bass. Good selection, and daily menu. Its been a long time since we last visited but will be back soon

had a drink and olives at the bar, a slow relaxed and friendly service from start to finish. We both enjoyed the starters and main course and would defiantly recommend.

Had one of the best steaks in my life here. Really good menu and 'home cooked' feel. Surprising how big the restaurant is.

Food is too expensive for what it is, service was shoddy and took ages, owners are arrogant, would not recommend