Oh, where do I start? Côte used to be one of my go-to recommendations, a dependable French-inspired chain that delivered quality and value every single time. They once served one of the best steak tartares around, fabulous calamari, a great crab starter, and their steak frites was tender, tasty, and amazing value at under £13.We hadn’t been for a while and, hearing about branches closing, decided to go back “one last time”, just in case Brighton was next. I wish we hadn’t. Honestly, I’d have helped them close the doors myself after that meal. It brought a tear to my eye. Côte is now a shadow of its former self, and the new owners should hang their heads in shame.The service was poor, mains brought before starters (how does that even happen?), and the menu has been stripped of many of the classics that made Côte what it was. The “frites” are now just thick chips, the steak was overcooked, tough and gristly, and the once-great sourdough baguette has been replaced with a sad, part-baked version which was terrible. Even the butter, once full of those delicious French salt crystals, has lost any hint of salt.To be fair, the roast Chicken was very good, and the house Cahors Malbec was excellent. But the wine list is now slimmed down with very little choice, and they were even out of Meteor IPA.Based on this visit, the writing is on the wall. These new owners, who also run Burger King and Taco Bell franchises, clearly have no understanding of what made Côte special. RIP Côte. I loved you in your prime, but it’s time to die with dignity.
Claim your business profile now and gain access to all features and respond to customer reviews.
French-inspired dining.
Join us in one of our restaurants across the UK or enjoy luxury delivered, with Côte at Home.