Portuguese · Southampton
Portuguese grilled chicken done properly, in a room big enough that a pram isn't a problem and a bit of toddler noise disappears into the general buzz. There's a kids' menu and high chairs, and the staff are the sort who find you a table when you walk in without booking and bring out a candle if someone's having a birthday. Portions are enormous — one parent ordered a side of coleslaw and got "a cereal sized bowl" — so small children can happily share. The piri-piri chicken, the ribs and the salmon with punched potatoes all get raved about, and Thursday's bottomless ribs deal is genuinely good value at £24.99. It gets busy on match days and popular dishes like the Portuguese sausage sell out, so book ahead if you're coming at a peak time.
A little something creative for your next meal out. Filled with colouring, simple drawing prompts for cute animals, origami and conversation starters designed to bring more play, laughter and connection to the table. 3 free printable packs for toddlers, preschoolers and primary-aged children.
A well-loved Southampton tea room with a 4.5-star rating and a relaxed, unfussy feel that suits a family stop.
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