Ribs 'n' Bibs Lincoln Review

Ribs 'n' Bibs, The Strait, Lincoln

Cuisine - American

Price - Medium/High - Ribs 'n' Bibs doesn't have the largest variety on the menu in the world but with the plates they post, you'll be expecting to part with at least ten pounds. The cheapest dish they serve up is the pulled pork bun which is tagged up at an average £10.95. On the high end of the scale, the specials often pose up just over the twenty pound figure but on the set menu, the dearest is the dinner known only as Vitamin P being £23.95 (you do almost get every cut of pig possible though). When it comes down to the beverage sector, the simplistic soft drinks start at a measly £1.75 and a bottled beer or cider begins at £3.60. They host a wide array of divine cocktails as well as some traditional US draft beers. During the week days R'n'B show some spectacular deals like meaty Monday's and Sweet Tuesdays giving customers unique deals to cash in on for dining out on a work night making your routine that extra bit special. 

Service - 8.5/10 - The service at R'n'B was unnassailable to say the least, from the moment of approaching the welcome bar to the final step onto the cobblestoned street, the staff had it nailed. Prior to going, I had a table pre booked which I arrived ten minutes early to, however the friendly team already had it ready for me and my fellow diner to seat at. The specials menu was thoroughly explained to us as well as an in depth, relaxed conversation about the cocktails, it was almost as though we'd known the waitress for a long time and were just having a general natter. After having our drinks and food order taken our divine treats flew to our tables; the refreshments were almost instant and the food took little over fifteen minutes. Not only that but the waitress adjusted the meals to our preference, so I was rather fussy and had the pork bun minus the bun but it was to no objection from the staff. Everything was spot on and every request we had was completed, they even granted us with a humorous bib and wet wipes for our messy, meaty meals. 

Atmosphere - 8/10 - Again, faultless. The noise levels were absolutely on point and at no moment did I feel like I was being drowned in the sound of a hustling diner. A chilled background music blessed the speakers at a gentle decibel, enough to relax me as a diner but again not too loud that it overpowers the natural vibe. Everyone was chirpy and buzzing off the excitement of chewing down on some specially cooked meat masterpieces, meaning it was a mellow environment to be in. An overall ambience that was a pleasure to be around and I certainly wouldn't grumble at going back.

Decor/Theme - 8/10 - U S A, U S A. Cut through the brickwork in this place and the mortar will just ooze red, white and blue. America from wall to wall with pop art of some of the USA's most famous stars, super heroes and cult classics which just scream you know which state makes it big time. A roped fairy light dresses some of the more basic elements in the establishment and bring that extra bit of cute enlightenment to gaze into whilst nibbling on your rib bone. Some other North American staples I noted were the tin gas and oil signs that were posted up on the surroundings as well as the cannibalistic animal horns, boosting up the overall honour of being in a carnivorous environment. I'd have love to seen some movie props in the place such as a mock gas pump or some glitzy Hollywood Boulevard memorabilia but apart from that it's brilliant. As of tables and chairs, the place has been set out perfectly with a comfortable manoeuvrable area. I loved the beer bottle crates which held the condiments, however it would have been ideal to have seen the house sauces which they sell for sale available for tasting. A running theme of ribs and bibs galore ran through the place as they actually sell their own merchandise including t-shirts, aprons and mugs which is a phenomenal marketing idea as well as business brand recognition.

Presentation - 7/10 - Well how many ways can you present pulled pork, sweet potato fries and a serving of slaw and make it come across as picturesque? The plate was clean, crisp and compact yet had a bursting colour from a few of the flavour elements. My sweet potatoes came across fanciful and plump with their decent size and crusted seasoning, not forgetting to mention the sharp purple of red onion which cuts through the porks dullness. I have to mention that the mountain of meat is normally served in a prominent white roll, so the image below doesn't do the dish full justice, however the presentation is still of mediocre standard and didn't put me off at anytime. The organised sectors on the plate made it easy on what you were eating, allowing diners to combine flavours as they wanted and the large oval plate left room to mop up any excess juices left over from the succulent pork shoulder. Simplistic, effective and probably the most efficient way to deliver such a messy looking meat. I'd say it was certainly a image enough to wet ones appetite.

Food/Value for Money - 8/10 - To impress a BBQ pulled pork professional like myself (I wish) would take something pretty spectacular and R'n'B definitely did that. For starters, my first bite into my decadently crisp and sweet fries was magnificent; the outer skin was ruffled and salty which broke straight into the fluffy inner which held a steamy hot temperature along with a sublime seasoning. The freshness of the cooking from the food was a class above with no part of my meal being luke warm, the piping hot meat just shows that care and consideration has been given to every customers plate choosing and that no shortcuts are being taken in the kitchen. My slaw had the ultimate ratio of mayonnaise to vegetables and I'm not normally one for it but this side was an exception; perfect crunch, proportion and a decent taste which complimented the rich pork. As of the pickled red onions and pork, they left me craving more even though my stomach was bulging through my shirt; a tangy, sweetness from the purple strings married the tender, smokiness of the shredded pork to a point of heavenliness. Mouthwateringly amazing meat that I could eat a pigs worth of. Portions for price left not only my pocket smiling but also my stomach as for only £10.95 I had some phenomenal food with the heartiest of portions. It's totally worth starving yourself all day to chow down on some of R'n'B's caveman size plates but even if you were full the prestigious flavours leave you dreaming of meat in your food coma.

Overall - 8/10 - Ever since I selected Lincoln University as my university of choice, I have been craving to take my culinary tour on a trip to the cities most notorious smokehouse and I can say with great certainty that it didn't disappoint. With a reputation bigger than Steep Hill itself, R'n'B and all its brand recognition has a lot to live up to and no wonder why every customer that steps through the door leaves hours later with a glistening glow on their face. Second to none service, affordable meat platters and some unique cocktails and beers, what is not to love? Any foodie or carnivore should jump in and gnaw their way through some of the most flavoursome plates to grace the modern bbq, sampling tender chunks of your ultimate meats. If you're feeling up to it and are into the whole Man vs Food universe then Ribs and Bibs offer a food challenge as well, either putting you on the wall of fame or shame depending on whether you can conquer the feast that lies on the day; yet another unique and loveable charm toting up alongside the companies special branded sauces and memorabilia. Situated on the left of The Strait leading up to the cathedral, R'n'B doesn't come across as nothing special and rather petite but the miniature meat mecca really is hidden gem and I recommend it to anyone. Join in on the banter and grab yourself a rib bib, get messy, get saucy, get meaty, I'm done hundred percent going to be returning sooner rather than later.

http://www.ribsnbibs.co.uk

Zak's Norwich Review

Zak's, The Street, Poringland, Norwich

Cuisine - American 

Price Range - Low/High - As an all American diner Zak's really prides itself on it's US classic's and it's gut busting burgers. When browsing at the menu it's obvious that the beef patties and beef dogs are the real pride in the USP department. The cheapest complete meals that you can chomp your jaw on are the hotdogs which are only a feeble £8.95 and include a hearty dog with a variety of toppings and a side of potatoes. On the expensive plates, it's obviously the steaks again as they posted up a heafty fourteen ounce prime ribeye at £18.45. For sharing or for one single hungry, belly buster they showcase an ultimate meal; a heart stopping meat combo containing literally every meat on the menu and two sides, be warned though as the bill will burn your pocket just above the £30 mark. Quenching your thirst at Zak's is a lip wetting treasure because you can get any refreshing pint of beer or cider for an average of £3.60 and soft drinks are £1.85 for a regular or £2.25 for a large. 

Service - 7/10 - First impression and it was clear to see that they were busy on a Saturday night, so we were told their would be a possible twenty minute wait on a table by our genuinely friendly hostess. Menus already in hand, being blindly read through we were appointed to a table within a quick ten minutes where we continued to browse on what would boost our dinner time diets. When it came down to taking our order the waitress' were faultless because nothing was too much; they adjusted the meals to our requirements by changing the side orders and even ask how we wanted a burger cooked which is a basic, yet rare occasion in today's eateries. Orders placed and it was time to wait but before we knew it the onion ring starter flew to our table from out of the kitchen and they were fresh, hot and luscious to the eye. Within another perfect time we had our mains infront of us but there was a slight mix it up it has to be said. My fellow diners requested a specific side order but the meal seemed to have a completely different one but after quickly addressing the issue the waitress fix the problem. At no point was anything too much to ask for and I was somewhat impressed with the patients and persistance to make the customers time a enjoyable one. 

Atmosphere - 7.5/10 - A slight buzz loomed the atmospheric surroundings and at no point did I feel uncomfortable at all. Even the background music which was an upbeat, post war, American playlist slotted in nicely to set a cheerful tone when I was eating my grub. Even though there was some minuscule issues with the servicing, the staff remained calm and looked as though they had full control of every situation at all times. Some restaurants suffer on Saturday nights because of the weekend busy boom but credit has to be given because the Zak's crew nailed it. As soon as you walk through the door you can get a gentle whiff of the grill working meat which is always welcoming and makes hunger screaming that little bit extra. 

Decor/Theme - 8/10 - American, oh so American. Everything about the establishment from the moment you walk in just screams the U S of A, even in the entrance hall they have a life size traffic light. It's big, in your face and nails their style to a pinpoint. Pillars and walls were plastered in collectible sports cards, it had a hanging basketball net and also behind the bar they trophied some genuine American football helmets which all fitted the theme perfectly, not forgetting the vintage car grills hung up. My favourite piece of property was by far the Mobil gas pump which was placed neatly in the corner next to dining table, it was larger than life, quirky but had every element you recite when you say born in the USA. The booths and tables could have had more of an authentic American diner feel but the plain Jane table set up didn't take to much away from the rocking status. Even the beverages on offer were nostalgic being burly U.S ales by the bottle and stereotypical buds on tap. Neon coke signs and tin metal number plates will certainly make you want to do the jailhouse rock. 

Presentation - 6.5/10 - I think I need a bigger plate chef. The already large, oval plate was absolutely brimming, for starters the sweet fries were jumping the brim and starting to flop on the table then the corn was seemedly dumped on top if the colesaw. My chicken didn't exactly yell appealing either because to be honest it was hard to tell looking at how it was placed which part of the bird it really was not forgetting to mention the bacon strips that just laid on top if it. I'd like to have seen bubbling golden batter piercing the eye, partnered with a small side order of fries so you actually get a decent idea of what's going on. Finally the bones from the chick proved to be a certain annoyance because after I tore off the meat they were lifelessly getting in the way on the plate, in the end I had to put them on a side plate because knowing me I'd have scooped one into my gullet.

Food/Value For Money - 7/10 - Give a man a healthy meal and you can feed him for the night, but give the man a hearty, mountain high meal and you can feed him for the weekend. A key factor that really saved Zak's food was that they were oh so generous with the portion size. At £12.95 I settled myself a pile up of food, all be it not the most expensive to create but a tasteworthy meal to say the least. My plate contained a farms worth of sweet potato fries, half a deep fried chicken, a couple of bacon strips, an ice cream scoop of coleslaw, corn and a tidy little side salad to balance the health element. The plate had both positives and negatives but overall it was definitely on a level playing field with other US dining imitators. Firstly my chicken, the bird sunk my heart from the moment I saw it and at my initial bite it didn't change much either. The batter was dry, hard and so paper thin that you could see the bones beneath in some place and the flesh of the chicken wasn't great as well. Don't get me wrong it was seasoned well and the meat was prominant in some places but I felt the need to douce the dryness with condiments, it was extremely taste killing how overcooked the bird was. On the other hand you had the fries which took up most of the plate and they were spot on. Decadently bubbly, crisp and sweet with a lengthy, fluffy pop beneath the skin that I could indulge on for hours. The bacon again was to die for; unhealthy, had a solid, crunchy snap to it and the saltiness just kept me craving more of that piggy American breakfast goodness, I'm such a huge fan of strips rather than the classic back bacon. To summarise it I'd say the meal was mediocre if not a little bit below par but the portion size really brought it to a new ball game leaving me to score only averagely. 

Overall - 7/10 - Zak's stations three restaurant/diner retreats around Norwich and has a sterling reputation for being one of the cities fine business developments serving up burgers and shakes for many of years. Pretty much faultless service, fast food and a great Stars and Stripes experience can be had at Zak's because of the rare props they do have on show, you could literally spend hours looking around spotting different signs and counting the quirky quotes plastered on the all American tin billboards. When it comes down to food, it's the burgers and hotdogs you should really be having; Zak's has built itself on the pride of it's patties for so many years and the creativeness of the combinations on the menu can leave you pondering for hours on end and let us not forget the meal sizes. Mountains of food at an affordable price, it's a great place to take the family for a welcoming bite to eat and not forgetting to mention if you're hungry some US comfort food loving. Don't expect fine dining and luxurious food just throw on a bib, get messy and leave with waddling belly without breaking the bank. There's obviously always room for improvements but it's a true place for tummy topping food and in'n'out style meal, enjoy and eat on. 

http://www.zaks.uk.com

TGI Friday's Norwich Review

TGI Friday's, Riverside, Norwich

Cuisine - American Bar & Restaurant

Price Range - Medium/High - On the menu the price ranges from the lowest being a £8.99 which is a spicy pasta dish and a Caesar salad, a few other items pose around the £10 mark which are burgers. An average for a meal will set you back about £14 like the chicken and faijitas but the high end of the plates are peaking at £21.49 being a sixteen ounce steak. Drinks in TGI's can be expensive if you opt for the alcoholic side with 330ml bottles of beer emptying your pocket at £3.99 a punt and pint sized ciders being £4.39; cocktails are obviously costly depending on your choice. Finally the soft drinks settle at £2.69 and are of unlimited refills, proving a real bargain if you're a thirsty person. 

Service - 8/10 - The service within TGI's was overall, pretty much faultless. From the moment me and my party stepped in the moment we left, we were looked after brilliantly by the waitress who chased down all our needs; throughout the meal the young lady was chirpy, smiling and enthusiastic about her job, leaving us as comfortable customers. When it came down to the delivery speed of food and drink, again faultless as it was all out and ready for chowing on in unassailable time. The staff do make you feel extremely welcome and the fact that one waitress looks after one table makes it that extra bit more personal. An element I did notice was that ninety percent of the waitress were female. My final point is how I noticed a few ladies were walking round making balloons for people, upon which they then got to keep. A negative I did find, also reflecting on the food quality, was how they didn't ask one of our party how he wanted his burger cooked, this showing not the best attention to deal or food quality. 

Atmosphere - 9/10 - Being a massive worldwide brand, TGI's has a high end reputation to live up to, so I didn't expect no cuts in the atmosphere department. The place seemed alive at all times as the murmur of customers buzzed, the background music played out and the multiple flat screen tv's ran out clips of a variety of videos which also links with it's US diner theme. Within my hour and a bit visit the staff must have had a birthday celebration boom as they had to deliver, what sounded like a ritual chant. Each customer who had a birthday had their table approached by multiple members with a dessert, then proceeding to sing a birthday celebration song/chant which can be heard throughout the diner; this is quite an awesome touch which adds to the overall experience. 

Decor/Theme - 8.5/10 - In a few words I'd describe this eatery as glittery, glamourous and in your face American. Most of the things you associate with the modern Hollywood lifestyle you can find here alongside the charm of the world famous New York diners. It's as though the creators of TGI Fridays took the best of the west coast and mixed it with the east to create a restaurant shaped love child. The bijou booths scattered around the building settle nicely alongside the bolstering bright lights that replicate those you see round dressing room mirrors, also the open kitchen and rounded middle bar are real positive USP's. Customers can even sit around the bar on cute stools to share cocktails if you didn't fancy sampling some of the food on offer. My two favourite things in the restaurant were firstly the TGI/Jack Daniels Harley that's in the window and secondly the fact that nearly every spirit you can think of is placed above the bar on show, leaving me admiring the huge selection of liquor.

Food Presentation - 7.5/10 - Upon reflection of the look of my plate, presentation wise it's neat. The meal had been delicately sectioned in a trio, dividing the protein, carb and veg into seperate areas with the sauce placed in its own little pot. An aspect that could be improved is if the sauce pot was much bigger as I would argue that it was far too little for the amount of grub I had to dip into it. As for the prawns, the fact that the fantail was left on marries well with the attraction element and often makes the fish look more genuine. The dish served it's purpose properly being the perfect size for the meal, my chips looked rustic with the slight skin on which I enjoyed but the veg was thrown together on a side of the plate, not giving off any fanciful feeling at all. 

Food/Value for Money - 6.5/10 - Disappointing overall, my meal walloped the wallet at a £14.99 price tag and consisted of mainly frozen produce. I opted for the jack Daniels cajun battered shrimp from the menu which, when it arrived, had a total of eleven battered fantail prawns, a jack Daniels bbq dip, skin on fries and a small portion of vegetables. First of all the veg was cooked nicely as they still had a bite to them, however it was few and far between as I had minimal greenery on the plate. The fries were flavoursome with a potatoey, crisp, rustic skin on them, not to mention the seasoning was decent and their was a pleantiful amount to get through; my main concern here though was that the chips did tend to get cold quick. Moving into the prawns and they were about average to sum them up; the batter was bubbly and crisp with an acute spicy flavour but the actually fish itself was lacking somewhat. The prawns flesh was plump and tart but it just didn't pack the cajun punch I craved from the menu, also the fish flavour really wasn't their, however you cannot argue with the quantity as eleven prawns tops up the tummy tightly. Finally onto the sauce which was one of my favourite items from my meal, it was delicious. With a hint of smokey bbq flavour concocting beside the sweet JD taste, this sauce just works perfectly when anything is dunked into it; the whiskey flavour was subtle yet noticed and also it contained small pieces providing texture, overall giving off a sweet, tangy taste that tantalised the taste buds. Everything but the sauce could be bought elsewhere cheaper in my opinion but the portion size was filling. 

Overall - 7.5/10 - As far as restaurants go, this place is more of a tourist attraction than a exclusive eatery as TGI's itself holds a big brand reputation worldwide. Many people will know that the franchise only normally establishes restaurants in larger cities, as it grew out of New York City, so it's a unique experience to Norwich to get such a place. If I ever recommended anybody to go to TGI Friday's it would be for the atmosphere and service as after my visit these were the things that made me want to go back. With friendly staff that make each customer feel special and a shibaz, showbiz American theme, the place has a shining persona, attracting people who pass by. Sadly the food and value really let the hype down because not only can you find the meals at any other "American" restaurant, you can also find them a lot cheaper also; more than anything here you are paying for the brand as the food doesn't take incredible skill to cook and replicates any high street diner out there. I'd like to mention that they do offer a wide range of decadent cocktails here and the variety in drinks is second to none, these are something I certainly come back to shuffle through. TGI's is one of those places you visit to say you've been, just don't expect nothing out of the average food wise, not to mention the prices are too high for the quality; portion wise, you'll leave full. 

https://m.tgifridays.co.uk

Mambo Jambo Norwich Review

Mambo Jambo, Norwich, Lower Goat Lane

Cuisine - TexMex

Price Range - Low/Medium - Mambo Jambo offers food in either a lunch menu or main menu, depending obviously on the time of day. The lunch menu runs through to late and offers a range of plates from a small £5.50 to £9.95, where as the main menu deliver meals from £8.75 which is the deluxe burger to the priciest being the fillet steak at £17.95. All main menu items come with a choice of side from wedges, rice and fries. Soft drinks vary, along with the alcoholic beverages as they offer a wide selection of beers, wines and cocktails. Water jugs are free of charge.

Service - 8/10 - Upon our visit we were greeted by a gentleman, who pointed us in the direction of a choice of two tables, which were both set, ready for our choice of preference. The ladies who served us throughout our stay were friendly, smiley and were unfaultable. They had no concern's with us just sharing a free jug of water and mainted attentative through out, making sure we had everything we needed and were happy with our food. Meals came out in good time with a very little wait at all which was impressive and much to my parties satisfaction. 

Atmosphere - 8/10 - Although the restaurant was quiet as it was a mid afternoon meal, it still grasped a feel good atmosphere. The mellow jazz music  that was playing gave a chilled out vibe and kept well within the theme, also keeping me entertained. Not to mention it wasn't too loud and didn't interfere with conversation amongst my group. The waitress' didn't push you to make a decision and at no point did I feel unwelcome. 

Decor/Theme - 9/10 - I love the theme and decor within Mambo's as it captures a real jazzy feel, giving you a taste of Mississippi America with a hint of Mexico.  The old retro, beaten up metal advertisements show off the side of the American feel to the restaurant where as the painted newts and vintage chalk boards make you think Mexican, hitting the theme of TexMex perfectly. With the jazz and soul music playing and the scattered neon lights just adding an input, you can't help but appreciate the effort that has gone in to create this authenticity. One thing I really love is the way they use traditional Mexican cocktails such as multi flavoured Margherita's as a unique selling point. Tables and chairs are set out perfectly and at no point do you feel like you are cramped amongst other diners even though the establishment is small. 

Food Presentation - 8/10 - Faultless to be precise. My food was presented neatly and overall sustained a fanciful look. It was appealing to the eye however it wasn't over the top outstanding. The ways of presenting the food could have been modernised or made slightly different as it just stood amongst a solid white oval plate, I feel that restaurants now should be trying to be unique or adventurous to stand out from fellow restauranteurs. Overall I was pleased though as it looked good, was appealing and finally they pulled off what could have been messy as there are only few ways you can make a quesadilla and fries look decent. 

Food/Value for Money - 8/10 - Most impressive as the portion size for the price you pay is outstanding. My meal was a mixture of the lunch menu with a side of large fries which totalled a price of £10.45 but still packed a flavourful punch that would fill you up for the next 48 hours. One thing Mambo's is known for is the killer portions as they don't tend to hold back, with half plate of the side of your choice next to the main you choose, no matter what, you will be leaving with buttons popping off your trousers. Not only do you get a lot, the flavour is still fantastic as my pulled pork quesadilla was juicy, tender and mouth watering, leaving me wanting more although I was full. A slight disappointment was the fact that the fries were cooked from frozen meaning they lacked flavour and seasoning, however you can't argue because of the portion size and cheap price. 

Overall Score - 8/10 - Mambo Jambo's is a little TexMex gem hidden in the back streets of Norwich's city centre. A place I would advise you visit if you are hungry, a lover of TexMex food or just needing somewhere for a quick bite out whilst shopping. The restaurant is suitable for any occasion and has a really welcoming, fun, atmosphere, giving off a friendly vibe to all customers that visit. The menu has a variety for anybody's fancy from spicy to fishy and will satisfy your taste buds, leaving you full for a week. One thing that is lacking is that the menu may need some slight modernisation with an addition of new southern sides e.g. sweet potato fries, corn bread and boston beans rather than sticking to the known fries, wedges etc. Also the use of frozen produce isn't great but is balanced through portion and price. Overall it's a fair, great experience and will leave you satisfied, my only advise if you visit is to be hungry! 

http://www.mambojamborestaurant.co.uk

Dray Yard Norwich Review

Dray Yard, Exchange Street, Norwich

Cuisine - American Smokehouse/BBQ 

Price Range - Low/Medium - Prices for food vary on the menu, depending on if you just fancy a snack like sandwich or a combo plate with a mixture of flavours. The cheaper side is at a low of £6 for a pulled pork sandwich without a side, where as the more expensive meals hit £21.50 for a full rack of ribs with fries and an additional side of your choice. Soft drinks are average at £2.10 for a coke where as beer is a bit more pricey with Brooklyn Larger on tap for £4.50 a pint. Others beers and specialist ales are available at a slightly cheaper price tag.

Service - 9/10 - Fantastic service, the waiter and waitress that looked after our table were excellent. They were cheerful, attentive and made sure we enjoyed our visit. One of the main things that I liked is the fact that they let one of our party try some of the Brooklyn Larger before he bought some as he was unsure whether he'd like it, this shows great consideration for the customer. All our food was out in good time and it wasn't no trouble when we asked for extra condiments. Overall you couldn't fault the service and I thought they done a superb job.

Atmosphere - 8.5/10 - If you want a relaxed, chilled out meal, without being in an overcrowded environment then Dray Yard is your place. At no point in my meal did I feel uneasy or unwelcomed and I could just sit back and enjoy the chilled out atmosphere. The background music was perfect, it didn't interfere with conversation and set a nice mood around the place adding more to the natural noise of the surroundings. You could tell by looking at other diners and even the staff that the relaxed atmosphere was a mutual feeling amongst everyone which I appreciated highly. Finally I would just like to mention how the slight whiffs of the smoker working and subtle hints of the BBQ sauce add to the excitement of waiting for your meal, this was a real pleasant suprise for me and made me a lot hungrier. 

Decor/Theme - 7/10 - The whole theme and decor wasn't something that was overwhelming as it was plain, neat yet had a sharp finish. Within the establishment it possessed some on going patterns with the rustic metal oil industry sign and the metal pig that sits in  the restaurant window sill; but it seems as though they are still adding and building towards a final decor. I like how all the chairs and tables matched, the kitchen was open and also the daily specials board, which was easily visible to every diner. Finally the bar was somewhat small but done it's job perfectly and also the menus were nice with a rustic feel which had an American feel to them as well. 

Presentation - 7/10 - This is the only area that I feel has much room for improvement as I feel it doesn't do the meal much justice overall. I felt my plate was too large for the amount of food which was on it and also it was all so central, leaving a large rim of empty plate, much like a bowl. To many people my plate wouldn't look as though their was much food but it was extremely filling, it's just the plate was too big. Perhaps if they cut the plate size down or resorted to a themed presentation then the meal would look more fanciful but bare in mind that there are only so many ways you could present pulled pork, sausage, corn bread and fries without it looking like a hot mess so they done well in that aspect.

Food/Value For Money - 9/10 - My meal I decided on after a long decision was a combo plate of pulled pork, Texas hot links (smoked sausage), corn bread and sweet potato fries priced at a £16.50. At this price tag you'd expect a decent quality meal, full of flavour and I can certainly say this didn't disappoint. The Texas hot links had a crisp outer skin, yet maintained a beautifully brittle inner maintaining great smokey flavour, it's easy to say it's one of the most flavoursome sausages I've tasted to date. My pulled pork melted in my mouth, was extremely moist and so tender; very delicious, anyone could make more room for it no matter how full you are. It's easily noticeable that great time and care has been put into making this unique pieces of meat. The sweet potato fries were chunky, cooked well and had a fluffy, feather like inner, they really complimented the savoury taste of the corn bread. With homemade condiments on the table the restaurant really excelled themselves with great quality of homemade food, justifying each price tag, creating unique flavours that you won't find anywhere else in Norwich. 

Overall - 8.5/10 - Reasoning behind this is because I absolutely love the authenticity of Dray Yard overall, offering Norwich a unique American smokehouse experience that is rare to a city like ours. A key factor they use above many imitators of American BBQ is the fact that they actually smoke all the meat they have for many hours in an imported smoker. It's not often you get to see one of these in action or taste food from it as it's an unpopular cooking method in the UK. Not only that but Dray Yard offers great customer service, fantastic atmosphere and sources it's goods from local butchers and dairies which supports county business'. The only ways this place could get better is if they added more items to the menu such as vegetables like collard greens, pickles and fried tomato, also I'd like to see more of a theme as it has great potential to be a real success. However saying this the food contains really good flavour and is something I would assure you to try. I would highly recommend this place to anyone I know and I'd say get in whilst you still can as I see it's popularity growing in the coming months. A fantastic meal, I shall definitely be returning in the near future.

http://www.drayyardsmokehouse.co.uk

Ed's Easy Diner Norwich Review

Ed's Easy Diner, Norwich, Chapelfield

Cuisine - American Diner

Price Range - Low/Medium - The food at Ed's varied all being at a low price range, going from around £5-£7 for a burger or hotdog. However the catch is if you want fries or a side they are an optional extra by which you have to purchase by themselves. They do offer a combo where you get fries, onion rings and coleslaw with your main piece for around £10. Soft Drinks were £2.50 for unlimited refills. Nothing here was overly expensive in all though.

Service - 8/10 - Extremely fast service of the food, quickly appointed a table and the waiters/waitress couldn't do no more than they had done. Overall second to none service however the only negative I could pick out was when we were wavered a sign up card during our wait, this was for a free shake but still unnecessary. Perhaps leave it for when we had the bill. 

Atmosphere - 9/10 - An amazing atmosphere about the place, it really put me in a good mood due to the certain buzz about the place. The music just topped it all off with the 60's era flying from wall to wall. No matter what age or where you are from Ed's makes you feel like a 1960's American.

Decor/Theme - 10/10 - This is a little American dining escape to the 60's in the middle of Norwich. A real throwback feel with all the authentic decor and feel of a true American diner. Probably the best decor I've seen in a while and everything just compliments each other, fantastic. A couple of things I feel in love with was the neon lights, the dining booths and also the personal juke boxes on each table that actually worked for a 20p charity donation. 

Food Presentation - 6/10 - I was somewhat disappointed when I saw my food arrive on a large white plate, for some reason to add to the authenticity of the place I thought they would serve food up in baskets. Also the large white plate just felt slightly empty and useless, serving the fries up on the plate would have been better and could have saved unnecessary clutter on the table.

Food/Value For Money - 7.5/10 - Reasoning behind this is due to the fact that the food was at a decent quality but yet again had a cheap feel to it. Overall I know it's a diner so you can't expect the best quality food so it is what you pay for and expect. None the less I still really enjoyed my meal and thought that the unlimited refill drinks were a bargain if you're thirsty. I did really like the numerous different takes on fries and also glad they have the modern favourite in sweet potato fries.

Overall Score - 8/10 - Absolutely brilliant, unique atmosphere, there's no other American diner experience close to this one around Norwich. Good music, great service, fantastic decor, the only thing lacking was food quality and a larger variety on the menu as it was mainly a choice between five different burgers or hotdogs. If you want a blast from the past or just fancy a quick, fun, dining experience whilst out shopping, drop in as you won't be disappointed. It's a sure bet that I'll be returning in the near future for a bite of that 60's American dining experience. 

http://www.edseasydiner.com/location/norwich.php

Coast To Coast Norwich Review

Coast To Coast, Norwich, Riverside

Cuisine - American Bar & Restaurant

Price Range - Medium - Food varied from medium to a high price range depending on what you had. Burgers etc. were around the £10 where as steaks and ribs were more pricey hitting £20 and over. However I did find drinks extremely expensive with pints being £4+. A bottle of Jeremiah weed cost £6.25 where as you could pick one up in Tesco for £2... Unjustifiable.

Service - 7/10 - Great Service from the waiter, however we had to wait a while for a seat which was a negative. This was a new restaurant so I've let them off a bit.

Atmosphere - 8/10 - The place had a real great vibe and buzz about it which I really enjoy, this added a massive positive for me, some people may not enjoy the noise though. 

Decor/Theme - 8/10 - I thought the decor was fabulous, giving it an authentic American feel, you can see a lot of time and effort has been taken to give it that feel.

Food Presentation - 9/10 - Beautifully presented food with a neat spread across the serving board. The plate wasn't overflowing with activity giving room for condiments and being able to easily eat without disturbing flavours. I really liked the modern feel with the chips in the bucket and the serving board.

Food/Value for Money - 6/10 - Food wasn't that great a quality and tasted slightly commercial. I did enjoy my meal but couldn't see how it was worth the £12 price tag. My meal was the stateside sliders with sweet potato chips as pictured. The chips were delicious and a breath of fresh air from the normal fries but unfortunately the sliders were average and didn't have a wow factor about them.

Overall Score - 7/10 - Worth a visit but don't expect nothing too special, the food is really lacking something and just doesn't really have much difference from other American restaurants like Frankie and Benny's or Zak's.

http://www.c2crestaurants.com/restaurant/norwich