I last ate here in 1992 when it was my 21st - parents treated me to a meal out and it was fantastic . In 15 years it had not changed. We decided to take advantage of the 30 year break, DBB offer and invite two of our closest friends along. It did not disappoint.

Our room was superb, huge bed and lovely furnishings(the only niggle was the sound of the A19 carriageway which runs along side it) but once you have had an excellent meal, followed by a few wines finished off with huge measures of brandy in goldfish bowl goblets then you hardly notice!! The reception area was as wacky as I remember with bric-a-brac everywhere and lovely comfy sofas. I was, slightly disappointed that the excellent main restaurant with palm trees and crystal chandeliers (where we ate 15 years previously) appeared to be shut so we weren't put in there to eat. We ate in thedownstairs bistro which was nice too, lighting was just right, not too bright and not too dark and very cosy. The dining room we ate breakfast in was very airy and bright. Breakfasts are delicious with a fantasic choice of cooked dishes, not just the usual English. You could choose from smoked haddock, salmon, mushroom dishes - you name it.

The staff and owners (Tom McCoy) were exceptionally friendly and the evening meal was simply one of the best meals I have had. Our friends who are very much into their food and drink and eat out quite alot also were very impressed, so much so they they returned shortly after with some relatives.

I would definately return to the Tontine, it still takes some beating even though there is a vast amount of competition out there. For staff to make guests feel special and like part of the family goes a very long way in my opinion and is more important than the quality of the food, even though that is imperative as well.

Stayed for just the one night. Arrived to such a welcome, tea in china cups (which didnt match) home made biscuits and wait for it... rare beef for the dogs! Judith who I think runs the place was just fabulous. The layout of the hotel is think Vivienne Westwood then make it just a tad crazier and you are then close.

We were told that the resident ghost was on holiday in Darlington and that we wouldnt be bothered that evening!!!! Tom Mccoy met with us for a while early evening which was fascinating. Learning the history of the house, the residents who had stayed etc... he even helped with choosing a decent bottle of wine from their extensive list.

The food was just delicous. Grilled prawns with a salsa and green chilli sauce followed by fillet of beef and finish off a fantastic irish whiskey cheesecake. Coffee was taken in the lounge by the roaring open fire. Perfect.

The room decor is just out of this world. Not what you would expect at all - you have to look beyond! A glass of sherry waiting for you when you return to your room.... nice deep baths and goodies in the bathroom.

Slept well.

Breakfast was delightful - loads of choice with especially welcoming freshly squeezed orange juice.

Would recommend to anyone visitning the NY Moors - great place to stay.

I haven't stayed here .. but there are great deals acommodation and restaurant deals for their 30th year in business .......

30 YEAR BIRTHDAY OFFER
we have been here that long

3 Course Dinner
with bed and English breakfast for 2
on Thursday, Friday or Sundays.

for £165 (inc. VAT)
(Please note extras, drinks and coffees are
NOT included in the above price and some supplements will apply to market price dishes.)



I last went to McCoys at the Cleveland Tontine 15 years or so ago ..... and went again recently with my wife, sister and brother-in-law.

I love my food, my wife appreciates food and service, while my sister likes ambiance and the food and service, while my brother in law APPRECIATES everything and is from LA where he has been Maître de at many very good restaurants...

We were all BLOWN AWAY by the quality of the food, the service and the whole experience.

Champagne to start .. fresh Irish oysters all round..... Hot foie Gras with Madeira, French Black Pudding with pickled pear, remoulade beetroot and horseradish sauce, Seafood pancake with Thermidor sauce and Herb rolled Tuna with smoked salmon and crab roll for starters - we all tasted each other's of course!

Mains included Wild Mishroom Risotto .. Scallops with rocket and parsley puree with chilli, lemon and coriander butter .... Pan fried halibut with tomato and clam broth and Venison with rolled venison shank, savoy cabbage and spiced redcurrant sauce.....

puddings (2) were shared again ... warm plum sponge and custard .. and warm chocolate tart with coffee anglais and coffee and walnut ice cream .. coffee and biscotti's upstairs in the lounge afterwards with our drinks.

£170.00 without tip or service ... FIVE STARS