If you ever find yourself craving a good old stick to your ribs breakfast in the middle of the night, get yourself over to the Polo Bar. Open 24 hours, this tiny cafe serves inexpensive local fare in a lively, friendly environment.

The Venue
Décor at Polo Bar is eclectic and bright with large ornate gold chandeliers, mirrors, and walls covered in dark green tiles, random photographs and newspaper clippings from the ‘50s and ‘60s. There is no real colour scheme or style but it all seems to go well together. You can sit and one of the large comfy red booths or at a smaller table. If you’re in a hurry there’s a takeaway window so you can grab and go. If you’re planning on staying a while, though, a word of warning – the café doesn’t have any toilet facilities.

The Atmosphere
A fun mood is set with classic Italian songs and other ‘50s and ‘60s music playing in the background. The staff are personable and aim to please. Clientele are locals, tourists and just about anyone looking for a quick and filling meal. With its central location and 24 hour food service, Polo Bar must be very popular when the pubs and bars in the area are closing.

The Food
The menu at Polo Bar is made up of traditional British favourites but is a bit limited. Adding a few more items such as salads, more sandwiches, and other mains dishes would be an improvement and offer the customers more variety. A hearty breakfast option is the meaty (£8.30) which consists of tender and juicy steak and a fried egg, roasted tomato, homemade chips, and thick bread and butter. This is a great option for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

A vegetarian choice is the cheddar cheese omelette (£4.45) that comes served with chips and coleslaw. The omelette is well cooked and is oozing with tons of melted cheese. Chips are crispy and fresh, while the homemade coleslaw is crunchy and refreshing. For dessert try the golden syrup sponge pudding (£2.95), served warm, which is sweet, moist and satisfying. For apple lovers Grandma’s apple pie (£2.95) is a must. You get a thick slice of warm homemade apple pie bursting with fresh thinly sliced apples and raisins. Add custard for 65p more and you have yourself a winner.

The Drink
A variety of hot and cold drinks are offered at Polo Bar. The cloudy lemonade (£1.10) is homemade, fresh, sweet and a little tart, with bits of lemon. If you’re feeling a little nostalgic, try the Pepsi float with vanilla ice cream for £1.95. The only thing you won’t find is alcohol as Polo Bar, despite the bar in its name, doesn’t serve any.

The Last Word
The Polo Bar is a great little place where you can have a quick meal any time of day – or night.

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