Duttons is tucked away in Godstall Lane in Chester, where the other more designer café bars exist. You feel you are in France or Italy as the tables are filled outside and you can hear a lively buzz of conversations, as people are inspired into good spirits as they enjoy their meal.
It is more formal than Alfresco but there is a relaxed and friendly atmosphere where you can sit back and let the helpful staff rush around after you. During lunch hours, Duttons caters for all people from the businessmen on a lunch break, shoppers with lots of bags to couples and families. The lay-out is very appealing with dark wooden floors and stylish furniture including comfy leather armchairs.
The menu is superb, especially for a light snack in the afternoon. Although a toasted pannini, bloomer bread sandwich or a deli wrap may cost as much as £6 each, they are served with a wide range of quality fillings and presented with finesse. However although portion sizes are not to be grumbled at, there is a fine line between not overpowering a dish with flavour and not adding enough. The roast lamb was supposed to be served with gooseberry chutney but it was as if whoever prepared the dish looked into an empty jar and instead of opening a new one or saying there was none left they spent several minutes urgently scraping the remains from the sides with a knife and thinking the wafer thin layer was enough to make the customer satisfied. On the other hand the duck wrap served with fresh salad and fries was extremely tasty and hopefully that is the standard they usually reach. Overall it was a fine experience and it is recommended as a great lunch time eating spot. Chris Hammer
|
|
