Restaurant · Stafford
Big group birthdays seem to be this place's speciality, and that tells you a lot about how they handle a table with children at it — staff who make a fuss of a birthday boy, check in often without hovering, and get food out fast when someone's patience is thinning. It's a cosy, warm room rather than a hard-surfaced echo chamber, with high chairs, a kids' menu, buggy access and free parking outside. The smokehouse platters are the thing to order if you're sharing and unsure — a spread of meats and sides between two — and the mac and cheese topped with brisket has real fans among smaller diners. Cheesecake and the surprise doughnut at the end tend to get mentioned. Portions and prices sit at proper-meal-out level, and it fills up at weekends, so book.
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.
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