Restaurant REVIEW

IKEA RESTAURANT, EDINBURGH

1 Location Just off the city bypass at Straiton junction, the canteen-style eating area is on the upper floor of the sprawling home furnishings superstore.

2 First impressions Unashamedly cheap and cheerful dining for busy shoppers. The decor is clean, simple, functional and unfussy. The play area keeps the wee ones happy.

3 service Depending on the time of day queues can be a bit slow, but our wait is just a couple of minutes. Efficient service with a smile. Unfortunately, there is a queue to pay and then we have to fill up our drinks from the dispensers, so the food isn’t as hot as it should be by the time we sit down to eat.

4 ambience The store might be a mecca for shoppers on a mission to create dream interiors, but there’s a relaxed vibe as families enjoy a break from the candles-and-shelves-buying frenzy.

5 menu Whether you’re looking for a cheap breakfast – amazing value from just £1 – a light lunch or a main meal, there’s a good selection. We’ve come for the famed Swedish meatballs, creamy gravy, mash and veg, with a dollop of sweet Lingonberry jam. For kids, the fish and chips, goujons or pasta are the perfect portion size.

6 taste The delicious meatball mains live up to expectations, perfect with the creamy gravy and sweet jam. The fish and chips is crispy and light. Desserts and cakes are dreamy – the saucer-sized strawberry tart, chocolatey Daim pie and cheescake all tick the flavour boxes. And the strawberry jelly goes down well with the children.

7 something special Sign up for a family card and you get discounts on meals and drinks and free tea or coffee.

8 price Around a fiver for a freshly-made meal with a drink. Just £1.75 for kids’ meals. Good value for money.

9 Toilets Clean and tidy.

10 verdict Not fancy but great value for a shopping day pitstop – whether or not you need a new frying pan! 15/20