One of the best things about our move into a new flat and new area is being able to discover our favourite local foodie spots. Good Friday, with the sun beaming into the flat and no balcony to sit out on, we had to find somewhere to sit outside and enjoy a coffee. The Orange Tree bar and grill on the outskirts of Newcastle Under Lyme, is a stone’s throw from where we are and so we decided to try it out.
“The Orange Tree Bar and Grill is housed in a fusion between a Georgian listed building and a contemporary, architect designed, glass extension combining the best of old and new.” Extensive menus, from breakfast to evening, as well as seperate gluten free and allergen menus available in person, or if like me, you research before going, they are all online too. There is seating to fit every mood, including a luxurious booth in the Wardle Room for private parties. The outside seating, although right up to the carpark made for the perfect suntrap to people watch.
Originally only nipping out for a coffee in the sun, our friendly waiter offered the lunch menus and after having a browse, Jim and I decided to get something light as it was nearly lunch time. I ordered a house salad, asking for no onions and my dressing on the side, and some sweet pot wedges, which unfortunately had been deep fried with a batter that contained herbs and spices, not explained on the menu but is made aware in the allergen menu so, lucky Jim, got to eat them and said how nice they were. My salad, although simple, was delicious and for those without intolerances, Jim ordered jerk chicken off the small plates and was very pleased with his. I must admit I had a little food envy, this often happens, mainly as his choice of dish from a menu is so easy and carefree. The latte’s we finished with were also very good, however they only serve cow’s milk but as long as you’re not lactose free this isn’t a problem.
The Orange Tree is definitely on our list to revisit, possibly in the evening to try more of their menu, to dine inside and take it the gorgeous decor and ambience, completely different I imagine from 11am in the outside seating area… and of course there is a cocktail menu that will also need checking out. The staff made us feel very welcome, were polite, chatty and attentive. My changes to my order were noted and adhered too making the whole experience one I would recommend.
a blog by devaney 