Brog Maker - Cork

I would give a 5-star review if it weren't for a few issues. The food at this restaurant was fantastic, especially the sweet and sour chicken and chicken wings which I highly recommend. The service was quick in bringing out our food. However, we were seated at a half-circle table near the entrance and requested to move to another table for more privacy, but no one came back to confirm if we could switch. The service was okay overall, with no check back on our food and a long wait for our mains to be cleared (approximately 15 minutes). Sitting by the entrance next to the door in a secluded circle booth felt uncomfortable, as it seemed like we were on display while people waited to be seated. The constant door opening caused our food to go cold. The dim lighting and people standing over us made it difficult to see our food. The waiter offered us some money off the bill, and the manager even offered us some wine, which we declined as we don't drink (it turned out to be 0% beer and water on the receipt). However, no money was taken off the bill, and when I paid in cash, the manager didn't give me any change and put it in the tip jar without asking. I was disappointed and couldn't get their attention to get my change back. Even though it was only a few euros, around €4, the principle of not returning the change was frustrating after voicing our concerns. The restaurant had a good coeliac menu with great options, but the overall dining experience was lacking.

There was a noticeable lack of management on duty at this restaurant. The servers made flippant remarks and seemed untrained. Our order was incorrect and the staff did not apologize or show any concern. If I had been on my own, I would have left. The food was only of takeaway quality at best. Others at the table also expressed dissatisfaction with their experience. Overall, it was a very disappointing dining experience.

We had an amazing dining experience at this restaurant. We were impressed by the availability of a separate gluten-free menu, which made us feel comfortable dining there. The staff was also very friendly and attentive. We will definitely be returning when we visit Dublin again.

I have been to Mak a few times and I know what to expect. It’s not an authentic Asian restaurant as it’s set up for the public who have a fussy palette when it comes to strong flavours and avoid the uniqueness of genuine Chinese establishments. Overall, the restaurant and food is fine and the cost is reasonable. A few things to note are : 1. The yuk sung for 1 is very tasty but they only provide 2 small pieces of lettuce and the amount of meat sung served would need at least 4 soI ended up just eating the majority with a fork. 2. The har gow and shui mai are fine but overly powered by ginger. I would recommend end the chef to go to an authentic dim sum restaurant and try the equivalent. There is a focus on presentation rather than taste. 3. The scallops were delicious and very well cooked. 4. The crispy prawn starter was well cooked and full of taste. I would go back as I enjoy it here but for authenticity , I would add this to a lower priority if looking for authentic Dim Sum.

I dined at this restaurant last Wednesday, February 22nd. It was quiet when we were there and the staff was incredibly friendly and attentive. The only small issue was that I had noted on my online reservation that it was my daughter's birthday. It would have been a nice touch if a bun with a candle had arrived, as it would have made the night more memorable for her. Despite this, it is still a lovely place overall and I would recommend it.