This cafe was previously known as Rimini's which, despite some shortcomings, was a reasonably popular spot in Blackwood.
Under new ownership, it has been spruced up - but at a cost. The prices left me gobsmacked - $20 for a very mediocre salt and pepper squid when boutique hotels in the CBD offer better for at least $4 cheaper! The same applies to other meals - this isn't a restaurant yet it charges like one.
A lukewarm latte cost $4 and provided about four gulps - I kid you not. I hope the owners read this and smarten up their act. Otherwise the diminishing clientele that seem to now frequent Montagna's will continue to decline.

Quite simply appalling. I hate being critical but as the prices have risen here, the quality of dishes has slumped. It's production line fare that would not be sold in a canteen. Don't believe me? Try it and see.

Approximate cost: $15

This is a new takeaway establishment in Blackwood - and quite a surprise. If you've had your fill of Hungry Jack's and McDonalds and want a lamb or beef burger with a nice kick, then this place meets all the requirement. Perhaps the only impediment are the prices - but I didn't mind paying extra for a better-than-average burger.

Approximate cost: $11

A bit embarrassing giving five stars for each category - but this fruit and vegetable outlet surpasses anything I have experienced in the Hills and southern suburbs.
First and foremost, the quality is first-rate - none of the chemically tinged stuff you get at the mainstream supermarkets that turns black or goes mushy after one day.
As well, the staff are always obliging - whether on the checkout or the hardworking guys out the back.
Take a bow...

Plenty of variety, conveniently placed but...
Without going into specifics, I have had cause in the past to query prices on items or the availability of a product and been greeted with disdain from supervisors and the manager.
Both men - one of them called Gareth - had an aloof, dismissive nature. I hope that was a one-off and not symptomatic of the attitude of their head staff in the store.

We have had experiences with several different tyre companies over the years with varying degrees of satisfaction in terms of service and price. Tyrepower at Brighton was recommended to us and, while a little out of the way (we live at Blackwood), we were suitably impressed.
We came with various quotes on specific brands and they were better than others. Also worth mentioning are the guys who work there: very obliging and polite. They seem to take great pride in their work. One fellow, in particular, Aaron, couldn't have been more helpful.
Well done to you all.

Mediocre all-round - from the service staff and repairs to the point-of-sale sales reps who overtly push for sales without the slightest concern about you.

Over-rated and rude - I'll tell you why from the most recent incident. My daughter had arranged to meet the duty manager to discuss arrangements to hold an engagement party on the outside veranda. She had been told the Duck Inn could do this and provide drinks and dishes etc at various prices - so the meeting was designed to sort all these things out.
On arriving, my daughter told a member of the bar staff that she had an appointment and was informed "someone will be with you shortly".
After waiting 15 minutes, she inquired again and was told the duty manager was "tied up" but would be around shortly.
After 25 minutes, my daughter left - and so did the chance the Duck had of getting any business from us.
Ordinary, to say the least...

I confess that I went to Entotai amid some trepidation, given the critical review listed above. However I was pleasantly surprised - not the least because of the quality and quantity of the serves at very competitive prices.
There is another Thai takeaway/restaurant nearby which cannot match Entotai in any of these areas.
I was impressed.

Approximate cost: $8.90

Poorly designed, extortionate prices and officious staff. Oh, how the CBD desperately needs pubs with old-fashioned values and service - without all the yuppy bullshit.

Approximate cost: $18