AS my companion and I walked into the bustling bistro on one of Chester’s historic rows, the warm and inviting atmosphere instantly charmed us.
Having long walked past the Watergate Grill and salivated at the aromas wafting from the doorway, this was my first visit to the restaurant that has recently been enhanced by the addition of a new seafood menu and a new name, Oceans at Watergate Grill.
Our delightful waitress welcomed us with a smile and we were shown to a booth on the second floor.
Finding space for us wasn’t easy on a Friday night, as groups filled the tables but there was a relaxed vibe about the place and everyone seemed comfortable to speak at full volume without being conscious of their fellow diners listening in.
Settling down, we ordered a bottle of ice cold sauvignon blanc, a well deserved treat after a busy week.
Hoping to make the most of the extensive mains menu, my companion and I opted for light starters – a Greek salad and a winning prawn cocktail.
We had a choice from around the world – nachos, ribs and skins, bruschetta and even Thai fish cakes, however both salads were fresh and crisp and left us with the right amount of space to tackle what turned out to be a lip-smackingly good main course.
My companion, who isn’t the biggest meat lover, unusually opted for the rump steak, despite having a plethora of great veggie and pescatarian options in front of her.
New York-style burgers were offered alongside chilli con carne, vegetable penne, fried chicken and fajitas, as well as a great choice of steaks from the ranch.
After ordering, medium rare, she also chose a side sauce of Diane-style sauce that brilliantly brought out the flavours of the meat.
The steak was succulent and cooked to perfection – a meat lover’s dream if ever there was one.
I on the other hand was delivered a fish fiend’s fantasy, after choosing an Oceans Prince fish platter for one.
Grilled king prawns, New Zealand green lip mussels, a 4oz hake fillet and calamari were served on a bed of steaming hot fragrant rice and a side salad drizzled with caesar dressing.
Every mussel was big and delicious and every prawn juicy and cooked just right.
The hake, which has a tendency to be served dry if not cooked right, was grilled with precision, helping to bring out the true flavours of a fish rarely seen on menus.
Our delightful meal was finished off with a chocolate fondue that came with waffle pieces, strawberries, marshmallows, grapes and all manner of indulgent treats.
We were almost inclined to ask for a helping hand out of our seats when we asked for the bill, but a stroll home along Chester’s ancient rows helped us digest what was a thoroughly delightful meal and experience.
This bistro-come fish venue not only had the right atmosphere but the international food, flavours and charm to back it up. A must for families, friends and you folks who enjoy a world of flavours, at any time of the year.