Well dear reader, time seems to have overtaken me in the last few weeks! Anyhow, The Boy Wonder decided we deserved a break from the whirlwind of life and suggested a cheeky lunch time bite at Alfreton House Tea Rooms. Now if you’re like me, you’re probably thinking “where on earth in Alfreton is that? “. It’s that lovely little stone house at the side of the road on the cross roads of High Street and Cressy Road, diagonally opposite The Lash and Brow Bar. Conveniently, there is a council car park located just behind it so that was easy to get to.
There was a cross section of ages already in the tea room when we arrived, a good sign that the food is good and the service friendly. We perched ourselves at a table that afforded us a good view of passers –by on the High Street, might as well indulge in a bit of people watching whilst we’re there !
The Hot Special on the day we visited was Beef Stew and Dumplings so the Man Bird duly ordered a couple of portions for us and 2 lattes. It wasn’t long before the Stew arrived - and what a bowlful it was too! Packed full of chunks of meat and vegetables, it was piping hot and super tasty - perfect for a chilly lunchtime. It was nicely seasoned too and the dumpling was nice and light, not stodgy at all. Our little Tums were gratifyingly full after that, but you know how we consider it our duty to have dessert too dear reader (purely in the capacity of research you understand). So the Man and myself bravely soldiered on with a portion of warmed Chocolate Fudge Cake and Pouring Cream, and a Portion of Apple and Toffee Pie (again warmed) with Pouring Cream for me. Both desserts were generously sized portions and very tasty. To conclude our lunch we had a Hot Chocolate with all the trimmings - Cream, mini Oreos and a Chocolate Flake. The Blend of Belgian Chocolate with the Hot Milk was deliciously smooth and just rounded things off nicely.
The staff were very friendly and polite and came to ask us if we were enjoying our meals. The premises themselves aren’t huge, but the decor and table arrangement made it seem welcoming and cosy rather than cramped.
For the Boy Wonder and me the total bill came to just under £18, which we thought was great value for money especially with the size of the portions and the standard of the food. One thing I noticed as I was looking at the menu was that they do an afternoon tea that consists of a Sandwich or Baguette, Cake and a Tea or Coffee for £5.50 per person. So if you don’t fancy a Hot Meal at lunchtime you can still have a treat without breaking the bank. There is also an OAP special on Mondays between noon-2pm.
I have to say I was quietly impressed by this little treasure. You could go a long way before finding such friendly staff and good honest grub. My only regret is that I hadn’t discovered it before - but it’s definitely on my radar now. Cracking effort guys! We look forward to seeing you again soon J
