Fairlawns, Aldridge

With its sprawling grounds and attention to detail, many happy couples regularly splash out on a celebration there after tying the knot.

Indeed, that was the reason I first visited the hotel in Little Aston Road last month, and left very impressed by the organisation and setting on the day.

But even following that, I had still never considered it as somewhere to go out for a meal.

But if my experience on Thursday night was anything to go by, it seems to be one of the borough's hidden gems.

My dining partner, my son and I visited there early in the evening when it was already bustling with guests and visitors who had obviously just come to enjoy a nice meal.

The scene was set with smart tables, light classical music and there was a relaxed atmosphere.

Restaurant manager Allia Abu Khalil was cheery and helpful while his staff were curteous and well-presented.

The menu has a host of choices as well as a range of set menus.

Chef Neil Atkins took over the running of the kitchen eight months ago and has revamped the menu to give it a modern feel which offers something for everyone.

The Fairlawns selection featured two courses with coffee at a fixed price of £19.99 or three courses and coffee for £24.99, from Monday to Friday.

The helping was plentiful and of excellent value for a starter and the chilli in the coconut sauce gave the dish just enough spice.

For my main course I chose corn fed chicken with saffron potatoes, which was again absolutely gorgeous. The chicken was tasty and the meat was excellent quality.

The potatoes had just the right hint of saffron and were cooked to perfection. They proved to be a delicious accompaniment to the meal.

My dining partner opted for a main of rump steak, which he ordered medium rare. This was accompanied by a helping of fondant potato and a peppercorn sauce. This is definitely a dish I would have next time I visit after hearing him rave about it.

Happily, ordering medium rare in this restaurant means you get medium rare, unlike a lot of other British restaurants.

He said the meat was also tender, juicy and brilliant quality and the peppercorn sauce complemented the dish but did not take it over.

Both of our meals were served with a helping of seasonal vegetables in butter which were fresh and tasty.

The Fairlawns Hotel and Spa does not have a children's menu, but the chef was happy to conjure up a dish of chicken pasta in a cheese and tomato sauce for my youngster, which he thoroughly enjoyed.

I was so full afterwards that I just had a latte, but my partner opted for a sumptous dessert of white, dark and milk choclate which looked divine, and didn't spend much time on his plate.

My son enjoyed a chocolate brownie with strawberry ice cream and chocolate sauce, another special order, which he ate with gusto. His two-course meal came to £10.

All of the food we ordered was beautifully presented, which really made you feel like you were having a treat.

Drinks are quite expensive, with a gin and tonic costing £4, and a glass of water £2.

Other menus include the seasonal speciality menu, which is £27.50 for two courses and coffee from Monday to Friday, and £34.50 for three courses and coffee.

Whether you have more exotic tastes, fancy a gastronomic delight or want something more simple, the menu is fantastic.

At a bill of £60 The Fairlawns Hotel and Spa is not the cheapest place to eat but as they say, you only get what you pay for.

ADDRESS

The Fairlawns Hotel and Spa, Little Aston Road, Aldridge

Tel: 01922 455122

By Fiona McCartney