THE Frankie and Benny's restaurant chain has expanded rapidly during its 12 years in existence so I decided a return visit to the local one in Chingford was well overdue.
The Guardian last reviewed this establishment nearly two years ago, and I was interested to see if standards had slipped as is so often the case with these expanding chain restaurants.
In fact now regarded as one of the fastest growing restaurant operations in the country, with over 150 sites across the UK - Frankie and Benny's has built up a reputation of delivering good quality family food at reasonable prices.
In fact the lunch menus with main dishes which are priced at £4.95, two courses at £6.25 and £7.45 for three course with unlimited re-fills of soft drinks available for an additional £1.95, look very reasonably priced.
Last time out this eaterie in Chingford received a glowing endorsement for the quality of food and service, but was said to lack a romantic touch with so many noisy children catered for.
But I don't really think Frankie and Benny's has really gone looking for that market.
In fact their restaurants are more like stepping back into 1950s New York, from the clatter and chatter of the open kitchen to the bottle lined bar.
Cosy booth seating and tables are surrounded by walls filled with family snapshots showing life in Brooklyn's Little Italy.' Combined with the classic 50s music, a mix of American swing and beat, they definitely provide a fun and friendly atmosphere for all to enjoy.
In fact on our visit early on a Thursday evening it was nice to see the place full of happy smiling families enjoying each other's company.
For starters my girlfriend chose the BBQ chicken wings (£4.25), while I went for the mussels in a spicy tomato and pencatta sauce (£4.75).
Both proved to be delicious and set us up nicely for our main dishes of bacon cheeseburger (£8.55), with a side order of onion rings (£2.75) and meatballs on spaghetti (£8.25).
At this point I should add the meatballs had my taste buds oozing and was even better than what I've experienced at some more refined Italian establishments.
My partner was equally happy with her main course, although with such large portions we were feeling rather full.
We did however decide to share a banana cheesecake (£4.25), which left us both with a pleasant and refreshing taste on our palates and topped off a very nice meal.
Frankie and Benny's
Larkswood Leisure Complex,
175 New Road,
Chingford
E4
