East Ocean - Carte

Chiquito

➤ Nacton Road, Ipswich, United Kingdom

Carte • Full • Brunch • Mexican • Breakfast

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"The food was served generously and piping hot, and it arrived in a timely manner. Our waitress, Kai, was outstanding—she was friendly, knowledgeable about the menu, and genuinely seemed to care about our dining experience. She even managed to persuade my wife to try a side of spicy baby potatoes, which was quite amusing since she typically avoids anything spicy. I had a good laugh at that! Overall, the staff was quick and attentive, providing the kind of service every restaurant should aspire to. Other chains could certainly benefit from sending their staff to the same training as these folks. Thank you all for a lovely evening!"

Aqua Eight

➤ 8 Lion Street Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 1DQ, IP1 1EL, United Kingdom

Carte • Beer • Wine • Thai • Asian

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"The lunch menu is priced at £15.50 for 3 courses with a glass of wine, which is great value. We had a nice lunch on Tuesday, but were not happy when the waiter started clearing the table while one of us was still eating. The table next to us also had the same problem and their bill was reduced as a result. Perhaps the waiter needs to improve their customer service skills, as we have never encountered this issue before. However, this won't deter us from returning soon, as the food is always excellent."

ASK Italian

➤ 23 Grafton Way, City Centre, Ipswich, IP11AX, IP1 1AX, Berkhamsted, United Kingdom

Carte • Pizza • Pasta • Italian • Gluten Free

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"Our 20 yr old student son was visiting Ipswich as part of an upcoming placement. He had to stay in a hotel for two nights on his own and eat out for dinner as nothing available in the hotel. He went to ASK at around 6.30pm and asked for a table … he was told they ‘already had too many’ despite all the empty tables and him being on his own. Very offhand and rude and made him feel very uncomfortable. On phoning afterwards we were told they were short staffed and having a difficult day. Nice of them to take it out on a young man on his own. Shameful behaviour! The reality is he was one person, it was early doors, and all he wanted was a warm meal after a long day. He wouldn’t have been taking a table up all night and making demands on the staff. If you happen to find yourself in a similar situation save yourself the trouble and just go to Prezzo. Or just go to Prezzo in any event."

Ararat

➤ 18 Norwich Road, IP1 2ET, Ipswich, United Kingdom

Carte • Halal • Turkish • Barbecue • European

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"Could have gone so much better! I ordered one of the BBQ plates but as I don’t eat lamb and can’t even stand the flavour, I’d ask to take it of my plate, the lady said no problem and that they’d instead give chicken xishe on its place… when my plate arrives all looked delicious as the starters were delicious too. But when I tried the meat it all tasted like lamb and I’d know this because I can’t take its flavour). I told the lady serving our table and didn’t even request to replace anything but she comes back saying that the chef says it’s impossible that the meat tasted like lamb rude). Sure not taking the risk at that restaurant again.. not to mention that the table servant kept taking star out of the table when we had not even finished with the starters or anything yet.."

Ocean Fish Platter

➤ 43 Upper Brook St, Ipswich IP4 1DU, United Kingdom

Carte • Fish • Wine • Steak • Coffee

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"For my main course, I had the halibut steak with baby potatoes, and it was outstanding! The fish was cooked to perfection, with a delicate sear and tender, fresh meat. The chef truly excelled with this dish! The baby potatoes were soft but had enough firmness to hold their shape, and the dressing on the plate was just right for enhancing the flavor. I also decided to try an oyster for the first time. The staff were very helpful in explaining how to eat it. Following a friend's advice, I added some lemon juice and Tabasco sauce, along with a few drops of shallot vinaigrette. Instead of swallowing it right away, I let the oyster sit on my tongue for a moment to savor the flavor, and I was pleasantly surprised. I've heard oysters can be hit or miss, but this one was definitely a hit—even for a picky eater like me! The white wine I chose was a nice complement to the meal, with subtle fruity notes that were not overpowering, pairing well with the various fish dishes. If you appreciate high-quality, fresh food cooked to perfection, this is the place for you! I’d rate it a perfect 10/10 and have already recommended it to friends. A big thank you to the staff for a delicious meal and a delightful evening! For vegetarians, I noticed a few options on the menu, and the restaurant is spacious enough to accommodate larger groups, making it kid-friendly as well."