Chambers Stafford, Stafford
If you are looking for salvation from the hoards of Christmas shoppers and frantic bargain hunting, Chambers Stafford could be just what the doctor ordered, writes Shaun Lintern.
If you are looking for salvation from the hoards of Christmas shoppers and frantic bargain hunting, Chambers Stafford could be just what the doctor ordered,
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Stress at this time of year can reach manic levels but this homely restaurant/pub offers a great chance to not only relax in a great atmosphere, but to enjoy real fine dining at the same time.
If you are prepared to pay the higher-than-average prices you will be rewarded with high-quality food and a menu that is well worth the extra.
Added to that is the excellent surroundings following the major refurbishment of the restaurant and pub which was taken over by new owners in July this year.
Chambers is located in an historic Grade II building overlooking St Mary's Church and just a moments stroll from the centre of town.
Inside, visitors will find a high quality environment which feels instantly inviting and relaxing.
The owners have successfully merged a modern high-quality wood and glass decor with a traditional pub-style bar giving a brilliant sense of style to the old building.
The venue offers a great place to sit and enjoy a drink and a complimentary newspaper in front of one of the two roaring log fires. Or you can pull up a chair and enjoy the great food.
Food is offered throughout the day, from light bites including a Spanish omelette and side salad, priced at £6.50, or a crispy duck leg with salad, chorizo, noodles and plum sauce at £8.95.
It also offers a luncheon club served until 6pm with a range of wraps and flat breads from £6.95 and sandwiches with prices staring at £4.95 and going up to £5.75.
But the main attraction of Chambers Stafford is the evening menu which is truly inspired and includes a range of local produce. Starters include soup at £3.50, chicken and bacon terrine for £5.50, and even a Charcuterie board to share at £11.95.
The main meals offered include a roast fillet of belly pork, £13.95, braised shank of Derbyshire lamb, £14.95, and Staffordshire sausages and creamed mashed potato at £9.50.
My choice was the 8oz sirloin steak, with peppercorn sauce, grilled mushroom, tomato and 'proper chips' at a hefty £16.95. As it was all freshly cooked, the food was not rapidly served but with the nice surroundings time passed quickly and in fact the wait, which was not too long, added to the experience.
Once served, the pleasure really began. The steak was cooked perfectly and really did melt in your mouth. It was succulent, tasty and everything a quality steak should be.
One nice addition was the serving of the peppercorn sauce in a small jug meaning the diner could make the choice of how much or how little they wanted. Chambers is expert at these little details.
The 'proper chips' were indeed proper and added a wonderful homemade feel to the meal. They were plentiful and not greasy but perfectly crisp and tasty.
For those visitors to the Chambers not interested in food, the venue offers a great range of tipples to suit all tastes.
It has a fine variety of hand pulled cask ales, beers wines and spirits to help drown out the Christmas blues. Current ales include Abbot ale, IPA, Chambers gold, Purple Moose, Tom Dick & Hardys, Olde Trip and XX mild.
With the log fire, the gorgeous surroundings and the helpful staff, a meal at Chambers really was an enjoyable experience.
Although Christmas is about giving to others, Chambers Stafford is about treating yourself and is highly recommended.
ADDRESS
Chambers Stafford: Victoria Square, Stafford St16 2AQ
Telephone: 01785 241752
