I’VE been going to the Mill of Mundurno for donkey’s years and over time it has changed in many ways.
Yesteryear, when my sister and I toddled along with mum and dad for a Sunday lunch, I remember it being more Little Chef-esque than its current incarnation.
Sure, it’s still just off a major dual carriageway and yes, it’s more likely to attract those looking for a simple feed rather than a swanky dinner, but there’s no denying a lot of effort has gone into making the Mill a bit more up-market.
When I recall my childhood ventures to the pub/restaurant, I remember my dad grumbling at having to go to the till to place our order, having scribbled it on a piece of paper, slightly thinner than Andrex.
And – in all fairness – the food wasn’t exactly world-beating ... or even mum’s-cooking-beating.
But on my most recent visit a much more pleasant surprise was in store.
Joined by my wife and our son, Hellboy, we settled down for dinner and within moments were asked for our orders.
I went for the chicken Makhani curry with naan, rice and chips (£7.99) while my wife picked the vegetable lasagne (£6.99) with a side of onion rings £1.65).
We chose chicken nuggets, chips and peas (£3.99) for the demon child from the kids’ menu which had a pretty decent selection, as did the standard menu.
I really enjoyed my dish and the sauce was just right – spicy but it won’t burn your lips off.
There was plenty of chicken pieces and even the rice was really tasty.
My wife’s vegetable lasagne was a really good-size portion with thick, melted cheese over the top and quite a strong sauce which complemented the overall dish.
I don’t normally go for dessert but the caramel apple crumble (£3.75) sounded too good to ignore – and it was!
Served roasting hot with warmed custard it was probably the best part of the whole experience and I can highly recommend it.
My wife pushed the boat out and had vanilla ice cream with chocolate fudge sauce (£2.99) which was fine – although my son ate most of it.
The bill came to just £31.41 and considering the size of the dishes it was an absolute bargain – although I have to say the service was a bit on the slow side.
Things have definitely changed at the Mill of Mundurno – there’s still some room for improvement but overall it’s well worth a look.