The Alamo — Restaurant in England

Nice rustic American southwestern style restaurant. Lots of cool cowboys and Indians themed decor on the walls. The menu has alot of tasty looking items. My wife had the bbq chicken burger, kids had various items from the kids menu which was generously portioned. I opted for the chilli cheese burger, after talking with the very friendly waitress. I couldn't decide between the full rack of ribs or the burger, she told me both were pretty good in her opinion, however she stated the chili was AMAZING. I took that with a grain of salt.... being born and raised in the Southerner and North Eastern United States, I know my chilli, and in 12yrs of living in the UK I have not had a single chili that was anywhere near "meh it's ok" let alone AMAZING! But I decided to give it a go... She asked me if I wanted it spiced up a little, so I said sure, why not. Well, I'll be completely honest, the burger itself was definitely in the top 5 best burgers I've had in the UK in 12yrs and the chili easily ranks as THE BEST I've ever had in this country! Full of flavor (the right kinds) not dripping with grease, and just the right amount of heat to make your forehead sweat, but not enough to burn the roof off your mouth off. Next time I'll try the actual bowl of chilli. But for now, after a week on the IOW.... By far this was the...

We went to this restaurant last night for our 10th Wedding anniversary and have enjoyed many meals here before, plus recommended it to others. When booking we specifically asked for a quiet table, but we were put near the open door next to the reception desk. We were disappointed by the staff discussing personal matters and using choice language over the desk loudly so we and other customers could clearly hear. My husband had the meal he has always loved having there - the Geronimo Feast, at a not inconsiderable £24.95. Although the large steak was fine, the additional items appeared to be reduced to a few chicken pieces, two battered mushrooms and two large onion rings, plus the fries. He was sure that he used to get other meats with the “Feast”, so was a bit disappointed. Also when we ordered two margaritas on arrival, the drinks were provided in small tumblers consisting largely of crushed ice. The staff were attentive in realising these were not as expected and taken back. She did acknowledge that it was her first attempt at this cocktail. The replacement margaritas were supplied in normal cocktail - not margarita - glasses and were much better although fairly small. We were pleased to see the restaurant busy and fully booked. We wish to support the Alamo, but just felt the quality of food and service...

As far as the theme and decor is concerned, it is a nice little haven away from the main drag. I like the feel of it being in a secluded side street. The quality of the steak provided was very good, however both mine and my wife's were more blue than the rare we ordered. The chips and wedges etc were satisfactory, but a bit over seasoned and salty for my taste. The salad was a big let down. Shredded iceberg and a couple of anemic tomatoes and bits of cubmber with a pot of dressing dumped in the middle did little to inspire. Service was a by slow and the menus has sauce on them. I just felt that the general housekeeping needed to step up a gear. The staff were perfectly nice. When you are specialising in relatively uncomplicated, straight forward food you need to have it absolutely tip top. I really want to love this place, but they need to up their game. I really hope they read this and take the positives out and work on improvements. I realise people's expectations differ, but a pair of mains (only one course) and a couple of side orders at £40.00 I personably want to see more. I'm certainly not afraid to pay for food and appreciate am the over heads small businesses have to contend with, but they could have done better with what they had. Again, the idea and location I love, it just...