Conversation a challenge, but food makes up for it
Steak & Ale Shop 6, Chartwell Centre, 15 Chartwell Drive, uMhlanga Call: 031 561 7234 Open: Monday to Sunday: 10.30am to10pm IT HAD been a hectic morning trying to do some DIY plumbing, only to find the fittings I had paid a small fortune for did not fit. I was in need on some comfort food and a beer.
A group of friends had arranged to meet for lunch, so off I went to the Steak & Ale. On the grapevine I had heard the steaks were good.
The others were already seated at a table inside. There is also a terrace that looks out over Chartwell Drive.
I liked the relaxed ambience of the place, it is comfortable and unfussy, but not the place for an intimate conversation for love birds. There is a fair amount of noise from the road and buzz from the patrons.
But I could imagine sitting on the veranda on a balmy summer evening, enjoying a beer and watching the passing parade.
Our waitress was cheerful and efficient and I soon had my beer (Hansa draft R20).
From my chair I could see into the fridges where some impressive chunks of meat were on display.
Our crowd does not do frills, so everyone was happy to order their mains.
Three chose the 200g sirlion, served with a fried egg and a choice of chips or salad (R80).
One of the more adventurous souls ordered the Bookmaker’s steak roll, which consisted of a ciabatta roll with basil pesto, cheddar cheese, prego sauce, sliced sirlion, red onion marmalade, rocket and balsamic reduction, served with chips or salad (R89).
I chose the Steak & Ale burger, made up of 200g of homemade beef patty, topped with streaky bacon and cheddar cheese with chips (R89).
It did not take long for the meals to arrive, and judging by the lull in conversation and serious attention to the food, diners were happy. All three who had the steak, egg and chips were happy with their choices. All importantly they said the steak was good.
The friend who chose the steak roll also made approving noises when I asked him how he was enjoying the meal. Ratings (out of five) Food Service Ambience
I was equally content with mine. The beef patty was juicy, the bacon tasty and the chips were good.
In the latter stages of our meal a construction crew started their machinery outside and that made conversation a bit of a challenge.
One of our party went to the gents and reported back that there were only urinals for the men. There is a sign on the door saying those needing “additional requirements” could get the key from management.
This is a fun pub and sports bartype venue. I went back a few days later for a beer in the late afternoon and the place was buzzing. I must try the steak at some stage, so another visit is on the cards.