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Having entered the Sunday Lunch market on Sunday 7th October, it was always going to be sooner rather than later that I sampled Newcastle Benfield’s offering. After two successful weeks by all accounts, I decided today (Sunday 21st October) was the day.
Having sampled various Sunday Lunches over the years, this was the first time I had visited a football club for a Sunday roast.
Thankfully my wife was happy to try the experience and so as a precaution we called at 10-30 to book a table for 12-30. Upon arriving we easily parked and were greeted by fellow supporter Jimmy Kidd and his family who were already tucking in. The remainder of the clubhouse was relatively quiet but it was still early and certainly there were many more people in by the time we left. Booking is therefore recommended if turning up later (lunches run from 12-3) but walk ins (and even local deliveries) are definitely certainly accommodated.
I sensed my wife was slightly judgmental before arriving as she has experienced Northern League football clubs (reluctantly!) with me over the years. Sunday lunch is as far away from a match on a Saturday afternoon as possible and very quickly her reaction changed and she was very impressed. The tables were attractively covered and offered the dining experience you would get anywhere else. Music in the background was also at a level where it added to the atmosphere without being a distraction.
After ordering drinks (pint of lager for me and a pint of coke for her – £5 total), we were quickly directed to a table to ponder our lunch choice. I went for the lamb (£1 extra) and my wife went for the beef. The order was taken very quickly by one of the waitresses and within 15 minutes delivered to our table.
Both meals were cooked to perfection and fresh veg was provided in a separate bowl. More gravy was readily offered and mint sauce was provided for us upon request. The quality was excellent and it was very clear that this was home made with the Yorkshire pudding being a very good size indeed!
My usual routine is to ponder my desert long before starting my meal but I very quickly knew there would be no desert today as I gradually filled my stomach. With apple pie and sticky toffee pudding amongst the options, saddened I did not have room to accommodate my bad sweet tooth habit!
When we had finished, we both agreed that the standard was excellent and that it would be very much later that we had anything further to eat.
Not only was the standard of food excellent but the service was also brilliant. All staff could not have been more helpful and as well as checking everything was ok, any additional requirements were readily available and offered.
After only 3 weeks, if the club continues to offer this standard of care and food, the lunches will continue for a very long time.
At £5.95 for adults (£1 extra for lamb) and £3.95 for kids (with ice cream included), this truly was exceptional value.
Next time you are wanting an easy Sunday with no dishes, get yourself along and support the club. Be quick though as at these very reasonable prices, word will very quickly spread.
Well done to all involved.
Kev Larkham
