Monkfish in Mothballs (February 21) by Audrey Simpson has left us wondering about her justification for the vitriolic and damaging content of the report.

Leone's on that wet Monday evening was not full. Many tables were available but your critic gravitated towards the table of her choice, dismissing guidance from the staff.

She dictated the tone of the evening by, on several occasions, arrogantly dismissing the waitress and manager while making extravagant gestures at note making.

With reference to cork being in the wine and the fantasy of the waitress' "disappearance", the gentleman was asked to taste the wine and there was no complaint then, so it does seem very unfair to make a major incident over this matter.

Had there been a complaint, it would have been immediately addressed.

I always thought food critics should choose a completely varied menu to give an overall assessment. In this case, we had three fish dishes, so how can an overall opinion have been gained?

Leone's has secured an excellent reputation for its food, service and opulent decor, which was not to Ms Simpson's taste.

Perhaps she does not recognise quality when she sees it. We have received so many accolades from patrons offering support and pledging their continued patronage.

Unfortunately, potential new customers could take Ms Simpson's rantings as an impartial account of what to expect in this restaurant.

We take enormous pride in making our customers welcome in a comfortable environment while offering them value for money. This may not be Ms Simpson's taste but I can assure you we have many discerning, regular customers who enjoy what Leone's offers.

We appreciate all the support we have received and assure all our customers of our best attention at all times.

-Andrew Emmanuel, proprietor and creator of Leone's, Hove