Being a Cestrian I don’t know why I haven’t been to the Cheshire Cat in Christleton, a Vintage Inn. I went here for a “ladies who lunch” meal in October while back home, with two of my friends the lovely Lisette (Liz) and Elisabeth and their two babies who were both approx 6 months.

The first thing to say is that they could not have been more accommodating and family friendly. They gave us a table with plenty of space around for the high chairs and buggies etc. We were annoying for the staff as we were trying to order etc while also trying to tend to and feed two babies who proceeded to trash the general table area with their food and other paraphernalia. And then there’s us three catching up, laughing and generally being loud. The staff couldn’t have been nicer. We went for the lunch set menu which is currently three courses for £13.49, although the menu had been updated since we were there.

We all went for the battered mushrooms for starter. They were a tad greasy, but still tasted good. I love, love, love mushrooms. I have a bit of a problem. It came with a blue cheese dip. This was lapped up by Elisabeth but Liz and I aren’t fans of blue cheese and so I can’t comment on it. I did think that the presentation in the lettuce leaf was a tad random and 90s.

I had bangers and mash for main with some onion rings. Apologies that I almost polished the lot off at lightning speed and forgot to take a photie of the dish as it was served. But you can see by how I have practically scraped the plate as I went that it was good. Lovely gravy. A simple dish done really well.

The other ladies both had the pizetta which was demolished and I heard good things from them both. Although Liz being her normal verging on veggie self picked off all the bacon which I popped in a napkin and brought home for the mutt.

We all had the berry Eton mess for desert. Loved all round. I think this is the perfect kind of pudding for this place. It is simple and rustic but always tastes amazing.

It is hearty basic pub grub and doesn’t pretend to be anything else. We didn’t come here looking for fine dining and we had a lovely time and left full and happy. I am normally one to steer well clear of chain pub food as it’s generally awful and I have to say I was impressed with the quality of the food here. Therefore, I have to say if you are looking for a relaxed family lunch out I would recommend.

Foodie xx