I had a work function here recently, where we had drinks and dinner. There was a group of about 15 of us so that might in some way excuse the service, but given that it was a Monday night and otherwise rather quiet, I think not. We started with drinks in the downstairs part of the venue and were left pretty much to our own devices with glasses and wine bottles.

Dinner was on the middle level - I'm not sure whether the waitress was having a bad day, but it was almost a slight imposition to ask questions and have our orders taken. Once we'd ordered, food took a fair while to arrive. To be fair, it was delicious, but I was starving by the time it got there. Considering there was only one other table of diners, I thought it was a little slow. Value wasn't fabulous either.

I love the concept of The Villager, but I don't think the reality works as well as it should. The kitchen is downstairs so servers have to carry food and drinks up and down the stairs, which does make things slower and can be difficult when in large groups. It's pretty expensive for what you get, but the quality is there.

Approximate cost: $28

The Villager has a fantastic location in the heart of the CBD, and was conveniently accessible from the North Quay ferry terminal. The venue itself has a great vibe, and they are open all day, from the morning when you can get coffees and breakfast, right through to the evening where they become more of a pub/bar. I had a meal here around 9-10 months ago and I remember it having a great menu, and the salt and pepper calamari was delish.

I returned last week earlier in the morning to grab a coffee after we'd been at the markets. I have to be honest, the coffee was far from the best I've had - it was bitter and weak. But I can't fault the service and it's really nice being able to sit outside and people watch along George St.

Would be happy to go back again, however. I know the food is good and sometimes you just have an unlucky experience with a coffee, so I'm willing to give them the benefit of the doubt.

Approximate cost: $20