Couple a meal at Maggie Jones with drinks at the Piano Bar for a special night out for two.

The Venue
Tucked away off the main drag, this is a restaurant you could easily walk past. However, it is well worth delving inside. The cosy, honest interior has nothing to prove; rustic old wooden beams decorate the ceiling and it’s crammed with tables. The clientele is a mix of young professionals and tourists and it seems to be a favourite for business lunches.

The Atmosphere
Maggie Jones has perfected the art of making a crowded venue feel warm and intimate. It’s absolutely ideal for anything from a family get-together to a romantic meal for two. Subdued lighting and dark wood give a warm, homely feeling and staff are friendly and welcoming. The downstairs area has a definite air of charm. Floorspace loses out to seating here and, rather than feeling cramped, this creates an enjoyable, buzzing atmosphere. Old fashioned agricultural machinery hanging from the walls manages to be quaintly charming (if a little ironic). There are some who may find this a little cheesy – the dried flowers, the scythes, the low ceiling - but the food will more than make up for that. Unfortunately the number of tables means that service can be a little hit and miss, but despite this the staff are never short of a smile which makes it rather more forgivable.

The Food
There’s a very British menu that doesn’t shy away from the meat and two veg approach while somehow managing to cater to vegetarians as well. While a set menu for more than 10 people is available for lunch and in the evening, dinner a la carte should not come to more that £40 per head including wine.

The idea is simple, classic English fare turned out to perfection. Meat pies, steaks and stews are served with delicious seasonal vegetables (which are ordered separately). The menu changes frequently and a constantly updated list of specials makes Maggie Jones a restaurant you can visit regularly. It is probably best to leave the diet at home and treat yourself to the rich and plentiful dishes. The lamb pie is a classic example of this. The pastry won’t do any favours to your waistline, but it is divinely crisp and covers a thick, robust and slightly peppery gravy with chunks of prime cut meat.

If you can manage a dessert will you see the chink in Maggie Jones’ armour. While the list of childhood classics like apple crumble and ice cream may get your mouth watering, the result is a little more school canteen than mum’s famous pudding. A real shame when everything else is carried off so well.

The Drink
A wide selection of good wines as well as bottled beers and soft drinks. House wines are very drinkable and reasonably priced. However a good range is also available for the buffs although this will, predictably, push the price up.

The Last Word
If you are willing to overlook the slightly glib quaintness you are in for a lovely evening of comforting food, wine and warmth. Ideal for a romantic dinner.

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