Well now, last Friday night was the best meal we've had in months. Syd's have a very limited menu which changes all the time so whatvwe ate might not be there when you visit but I 100% recommend you wander in with an open mind and try wherever they're offering. Our table tried the Lamb kebab with attitude, the chicken wings, halloumi fries, loaded fries, and a few other things. All 6 of us emphatically agreed that what we ate, without exception, was truly richly flavoursome and excellent. Also there was plenty of it. I normally steer clear of "loaded" or "dirty" fries because it normally just results in a soggy salty spud based mess, or a coagulated lump of spud and cheap cheese. Not here, sooo far from it. The parmesan fries were a super simple but brilliant twist, the loaded fries had a fantastic flavour and kept their crisp. The kebabs (chicken or lamb) were fabulously dressed and had a fantastic flavour combo in the ingredients which included a chili element that just hit that perfect balance where you knew it was there but it didn't overpower all the other parts.
The service was great and we got to chat with Ricky (Syd) who seemed genuinely interested in what we thought and was fun to chat with and seemed genuinely pleased that ALL 6 of us immediately said how great we'd found our meals to be.
Briefly got the chance to chat with the chef too (I think his name was Jon, I hope it was anyway, and sooo sorry if I've misremembered) and was happy to shake his hand and let him know that I normally run a mile from chicken wings and loaded fries but his were game changers alongside the really excellent flavours in the kebabs that evening.
Really looking forward to going back and just diving into whatever happens to be on the menu next time.
Dropped 1 star for atmosphere only 'cos they weren't very busy, but I hope this review might help change that.
We made our own atmosphere and the staff were perfectly engaged, natural and attentive without being intrusive.
Oh and pricing was perfectly acceptable.
Nice one.
Looking forward to next time
UPDATE ABOUT A WEEK LATER: Popped in for a brekky (about 10 a.m.). JUST BRILLIANT. IMHO, the bacon was just right (not soft, just crisping), sausage was great flavour, I had scrambled eggs rather than fried and they were perfectly prepped (not dry not runny) and a satisfying colour (not that insipid almost white stuff). Shrooms, hash brown, mug of tea (bag in, milk separate so I could make it proper strong). Fair price, with no sneaky additional charges. Will be back for another as soon as the chance pops up.
Also, the place was way busier than last time and had a nice chatty buzz.
Lady who served us was very pleasant and showed off by not writing our order down and still getting us what we...
Read moreSure, I can help with that. Here's a review for Syd's Slaps in Southborne:
A Delightful Evening at Syd's Slaps in Southborne
Last night, a group of four friends and I decided to explore the local culinary scene and ended up at Syd's Slaps, a cozy bar in Southborne. Our experience was nothing short of delightful.
Upon entering, we were greeted by the warm ambiance, a perfect blend of casual and chic, setting the tone for our evening. The staff was welcoming and attentive, ensuring we were comfortably seated and promptly attended to.
We started with the Buffalo Wings, which were a revelation. They had the perfect balance of heat and flavor, with a crispy exterior giving way to succulently cooked chicken. Each bite was a burst of spicy delight, complemented perfectly by the cooling dip.
Next up was the Chicken Burger, a masterpiece of simplicity done right. The chicken was juicy and well-seasoned, nestled between a soft, fresh bun. The accompaniments of lettuce and a special sauce added layers of texture and taste, making it a memorable burger.
The star of the night, however, was the Reuben Sandwich. This classic was executed with finesse, featuring tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melting cheese. Each element was in harmony, creating a symphony of flavors that was both comforting and exciting.
Our evening at Syd's Slaps was a delightful culinary journey. The food was outstanding, the atmosphere inviting, and the service impeccable. It's a gem in Southborne, perfect for a casual night out with friends or a cozy dinner. We left with satisfied palates and the intention to...
Read moreI decide to take my son & daughter-in-law whom visiting me from London for a breakfast/brunch, Hugely disappointed! we order 2+number two breakfast & Brioche bun sausage my sausage burn to the colour of charcoal The hash browns on the breakfast feel like has been dropped in the cold oil The grease on it beyond belief. I have ask the waiter, if that how the bun was served he’s taking it back to the kitchen and come back with exactly same sausage that have the burnt cut off and stick the stone cold cheese on it to replace the burnt one! Seriously? For a second time? By this point, I have lost faith in the chef. I send it back and say I did not want anything else. When it come to pay the bill we have a surprise they charge £1.50 more for scrambled egg instead of Fried eggs which they didn’t tell you when you order. And they still charged me £2.90 for the filter coffee that come with my burnt sausages. What a joke. never again. You are better off at Wetherspoons because at least you know what you...
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