If you are a regular Spy reader you are in for a treat. In 2007, we wrote about the sublime delights of Sophie's in Exmouth. You can read the original review here. We recently heard from another correspondent who has been able to update us with startling new developments.

What a disappointment! A great location and a stylish venue overlooking the harbour. Service? What service? Surly and incompetent staff seem to be the speciality.

My wife and I went to The Barn recently for a celebratory birthday dinner. I must say that we were more than a little disappointed. The starters were fine, you cannot really go too wrong with deep fried brie. Both main courses were more than a little disappointing.

Its late morning in the Lanes in Brighton and we need a quick drink and snack. Ah, Bella Italia, “Cooked Breakfast, Pastries & Coffee, available now”, just the ticket and only four other customers.

A sad disappointment

We visited this restaurant based on the channel 4 big map recommendation. Very disappointed. Upon ordering the wine, they did not allow you to taste or serve you, just leave to self serve!

The worldwide economic downturn looks to be a terrible thing for many, and if it has affected you, you have my sympathy. However, it is not all bad news, because all those pretentious, overpriced restaurants, who rely on a fancy address, snobbery and customers' fear of embarrassment to - frankly - rob them, will go to the wall.

This restaurant advertises itself as Fine Food prepared by Italians and served by Italians. It is anything but. Despite the exorbitant prices charged for a restaurant in this area, it is simply not worth it.

The Angel Hotel is ideally situated on the main street in the picturesque town of Llandeilo. At the rear of this inviting pub is the Capel Bach Bistro which is in the oldest part of the building dating back to the 1700’s.

Impressive decor, but what is going on in this faux American diner? Sadly, as predicted, The Lazy Dog Diner is now closed.