Jane Lloyd fits in a Mexican before the Saturday movie
THERE are certain questions to avoid with men. “Are you sure you’re not lost” and “does my bum look big in this” are among them.
But when it comes to asking what film he wants to watch – fire away. And in a moment of weakness that’s just what I did.
Of course, he would never have volunteered Miss Potter or Becoming Jane without a sex change. But not for one crazy moment did I think he’d say Hot Fuzz either. Luckily for him, my ensuing strop was postponed by dinner.
Now I know the cultivated among you will raise a manicured eyebrow when I reveal how we opted for a chain restaurant – you know the kind, big, brash with menus that read like War and Peace. In our defence, though, informal dining is the only thing to do at Cheshire Oaks before hitting the flicks.
Although there were plenty of places to go – Pizza Hut and Bella Pasta among them – the loud, hip swaying music at Chiquito beckoned us into their Mexican-themed fold.
The decor seemed less obvious than in previous incarnations – the large hats and corny artefacts having long been replaced by tasteful terracotta pieces and painted dishes.
As always, the place seemed packed with shoppers, movie-goers and young families – rug rats in particular seem to love the warm welcome they receive here. But, for a change, we were seated instantly – although we had to wait a few minutes to catch the attention of a passing waiter.
From that moment on, though, the service was faultless – friendly and efficient without being intrusive. Usually, weekend diners are ushered into the bar area with a clever little device that flashes when a table is ready.
It’s a nuisance but it renders an opportunity to slurp themed cocktails such as the golden margarita and tequila sunrise, while wine connoisseurs revel in the reasonably priced bottles of Chilean Chardonnay and Mexican sirahs.
After ordering a Corona (£2.20) and Diet Coke (£2), we pored over the menu. It boasted of hot ’n’ spicy dishes, nachos, steaks, ribs and burgers, plus sizzling fajitas and vegetarian wraps. The list was vast and fairly authentic.
