ThE VILLA, 13 ArbuThnoTT pL, STonEhAVEn

1 Location

Tucked up a side street, not far from the town centre.

2 First impressions

At first we weren’t sure we had the right place as it looks just like someone’s house. Inside it feels just like a family home, too – three cosy rooms with low ceilings and clean, bright decor. And there are nice tables in the back garden for sunny days.

3 service

Excellent, cheery welcome, great personal service with personality and warmth.

4 menu

So many homemade, delicious-sounding options we found it hard to choose. Light snacks, soup, a lovely selection of sandwiches and baked potatoes; excellent lunches – beef stroganoff, sausage casserole, fish, mince and tatties and many more. The pensioners’ portions, kids’ menu and daily specials board all seemed to be very popular. The cafe is licensed.

5 taste

Just like being at your auntie’s – generous portions of fresh, homemade loveliness. We tried the flavoursome soup, steak & cheese and tuna paninis served with salad and crisps, and homebaked lasagne. All very nice indeed. And we couldn’t resist the sticky toffee pud, apple and blackberry crumble with creamy custard and a Malteser tiffin just for good measure!

6 ambience

Friendly, comfortable, relaxing and warm atmosphere – if your favourite armchair was a cafe, this would be it!

7 price

Great value at under £40 for three filling meals plus treats.

8 something special

The traditional trolley gloriously laden with cakes and traybakes wheeled between the rooms so you can choose at your table.

9 toilet

Hidden in the back of the restaurant, super clean and fragrant from the vase of fresh flowers.

10 verdict

Lovely, homely place with great food. 16/20