The Midland Hotel

I’ve started dropping in for coffee lately. It’s a nice little place, and the coffee is very good, freshly ground, with decaf options and mochas too. I also tried the scampi and chips once. It came quickly and tasted good. The coffee area is fairly small and separate from the pub and dining spaces, though I’m sure people could spill over if it got too busy.

We enjoyed the outdoor seating, even though it’s right beside a busy main road. The food and value have slipped since it changed hands a couple of years ago, I think. The menu used to be really good and great value, but the quality and cost aren’t what they were. Portions are disappointing for the price. I paid £14 for a crispy cauliflower salad that was mostly iceberg lettuce. The kids’ menu was worse: the “garlic bread strips” starter was one small slice, costing an extra 99p on top of the menu price. The kids’ sausage and mash arrived without the gravy it was meant to come with. When we asked for it, it came far too hot for my granddaughter to enjoy with her meal. These are simple things that could easily be sorted.

The manager’s always welcoming and friendly. They noticed I was breastfeeding and brought me a glass of water. They also put the train on for our toddler every time, which she loves. The coffee and food are ace.

On a seriously hot Sunday, the staff were still warm and friendly. I had the best burger I’ve eaten in 50 years, succulent, juicy and chargrilled. The Sunday lunch was great too, with gorgeous carved beef, turkey and pork, plus lush gravy and an extra gravy boat. Really good value for money.