Patio Andaluz

We were first introduced to this restaurant by John and Jean who live down the road from us.

Patio Andaluz was built in 1973. A couple of years ago it was completely rebuilt from the ground up. Amazingly when you are inside it does look as though the demolition never happened.

We have never been there when it was not full especially on those nights when they have the flamenco show. The audience is almost 100% British although the food is almost 80% Spanish most of which is cooked on a traditional wood oven.

We are always reluctant to recommend restaurants to people because the minute you do, someone goes there and has a bad night. Either the chef has changed or he is off that night. In the case of Patio Andaluz though, we can honestly say that the food has been good every time we have been there. There is always plenty of it and the prices are very reasonable.

Last night, between us we sampled the ham and cheese platter, the prawns and the fried baby squid as a starter - all of which were excellent. For main courses we tried the steaks, the veal and the rabbit in garlic which again all gained the thumbs up. For desserts we mainly went for the refreshing lemon or orange ice creams which are served in a scooped out fruit. Andrew had a chocolate ice cream bomb which he declared delicious.

So another great night and another place where we would be confident to take any guests.

PS I must thank one of my neighours Michael. It was he who recommended the rabbit in garlic. I'm glad he did because it was very good.