nikfry's profile

Picture
QYPE NINJA

This profile is accessible only for registered users. Log in


  • Portobello Ristorante - Tamworth

    4 1 review

    Silver Street, Tamworth, Staffordshire

    Portobello Ristorante

    1pxt nikfry last updated on 21-01-2009:

    I have walked passed here for years and never given it a second glance, it looks cheap and mediocre from the outside. Just another pizza joint on the horizon. We were stuck for somewhere to eat last week however and thought we would give it a go for the hell of it. Boy was I pleasantly surprised.
    The menu is quite extensive. Besides the obvious stone baked pizzas and freshly prepared pasta dishes there is an array of seafood to rival any City restaurant. Prices were reasonable too. Isettled on spaghetti Marinara and my friend decided on a smoked ham pizza. We also shared a huge stone baked thin crust garlic bread as a starter. Everything we ate was delicious and the portions were hearty,. The waitress was like a breath of fresh air, vivacious and helpful in suggesting wine choices. She also ensured she was attentive without us feeling the slightest bit rushed. It was a Saturday night and we were lucky to get the last table, yet it did not feel cramped or noisy. It was cosy and intimate and would be a lovely choice actually for a first date. We were celebrating my friends engagement and it was ideal as they gave us plenty of time to chat. They also did not bat an eyelid when we both burst in to tears as she asked me to be her 'chief bridesmaid’. They do a three course set menu every night except sat for £11.95 which I want to sample so I think I may be dragging my husband back.

    Tags , , , , ,

    helpful

    4 people thought this review was helpful

    Comment (0) | Report this content | Compliment

  • The Green Man - Clifton Campville

    5 1 review

    Main Street, Tamworth, Staffordshire B79 0AX

    The Green Man

    1pxt nikfry last updated on 14-01-2009:

    Set in the beautiful countryside on the outskirts of Tamworth this is a 'special’ pub. Its a 16th century coaching Inn steeped in local history. The interior is homely and warming and there are chunky wooden furnishings and exposed beams. I had not been since I was a child I am loathed to admit, but it was my birthday and we just wanted a nice relaxed intimate family meal. we were not disappointed. With so much other stuff going on we did not get there until half two and they were just finishing serving meals. The landlord quickly went to speak to the chef and they happily continued service just for us. The choice was not vast - basically either sunday roast with a choice of 4 meats. Or baguettes and salads if you are wanting something lighter. I would easily eat a roast beef dinner every day of the week if I could … so the decision was not hard. The portions were just right and the meat was so tender it just melted in your mouth. The veg was cooked just right too. The staff made a fuss of both of our children, and even gave my seven year old boy a free coke as he had been so good with his manners!!!!! We will certainly be back. Oh and the chef even came out of the kitchen and asked us if the food was ok.

    Tags , ,

    helpful

    3 people thought this review was helpful

    Comment (0) | Report this content | Compliment

  • Adams Childrenswear - Tamworth

    4 3 reviews

    38-40 Ankerside Shopping Centre, George Street, Tamworth, Staffordshire B79 7LQ

    Adams Childrenswear

    1pxt nikfry last updated on 22-12-2008:

    Shop here for kids clothes in the sales only. Although the clothes are good quality and wash well they are also quite expensive and I don’t think its worth it when they grow out of them so quickly. Nice for party dresses/shirts and special occasion wear as they do some unusual and very fashionable lines. Not a place to shop for everyday stuff though. They have a store card which has a rather ridiculous a.p.r so beware 9voice of experience Lol).
    Layout is good and the store is well kept. The staff are well trained and are willing to offer help and advice.

    Tags , , ,

    helpful

    5 people thought this review was helpful

    Comment (2) | Report this content | Compliment

  • Woolworths - Tamworth

    4 1 review

    26-27 George Street, Tamworth, Staffordshire B79 7LL

    Woolworths

    1pxt nikfry last updated on 22-12-2008:

    I am torn. Torn between nostalgia and giving this place 5 stars due to the fact its being closed down (as are they all of course) and it has been there since before I was born. But also trying to remember and take into account all the times I have been given rubbish service here.
    I would not normally review somewher that was being closed down - in fact I often bemoan it when other Qypers do it. However Woolworths is an Institution in EVERY sense of the word and its sad it will be going. Sad especially as this one seems to be closing at a time when it finally seemed to have some decent staff that said Good morning (or Afternoon) and actually smiled. I will always remember woolies with a smile and remember the good old days when you could buy a toy there with your pocket money with a pound on a saturday and still have change for a pick and mix.
    Sad huh?
    They are currently still trading till xmas at least in Tamworth and alot of the stuff is 40% off … I got a huge bag full of kids clothes today for £20.

    Tags , ,

    helpful

    3 people thought this review was helpful

    Comment (0) | Report this content | Compliment

  • Old Liberal House - Tamworth

    3 3 reviews

    Woodhouse Lane, Tamworth, Staffordshire B77 3AE

    Old Liberal House

    1pxt nikfry last updated on 12-12-2008:

    Its your average joe local. Convenient if you cant be bothered to go into town or for a pre - drink before hitting the town. It still has that old musty smell even though there is no smoking anymore - which is odd. The drinks are averagely priced, the staff are averagely nice, and the decor typical for your olde worlde suburbian pub.

    It will always put me off a little on a personal note that this is the pub that all the teachers used to frequent on lunch hour when I was at school. I always feel kind of naughty in there as if one of them will come in and catch me!!!

    As far as I know they do not serve food. They do rent out for functions - and it makes an ok cheap and cheerful venue if you have the right crowd to bring your own atmosphere I guess.

    Tags , ,

    helpful

    3 people thought this review was helpful

    Comment (0) | Report this content | Compliment

  • Hobbycraft - Tamworth

    4 7 reviews

    Ventura Retail Park, Ventura Park Road Bonehill, Tamworth, Staffordshire B78 3HB

    Hobbycraft

    1pxt nikfry last updated on 12-12-2008:

    When Lawrence Llwellyn Bowen came flouncing onto our screens with a flick of his locks and a rustle of his frilly cuffs he brought with him Interior design to the masses. He and his cronies dumbed it down and bigged it up until society really thought they could do it themselves. Only problem was it was probably done very badly, with little flair, and no tecnical expertise. Hobbycraft is much the same.

    I always feel that this is a place to occupy those with no creative thoughts in their own head and too little time on their hands. On the one hand coming from a Fine Art background myself I am kind of glad that people are trying to make and do at all … its just its all soooo twee and derived.

    Ok controversial rant over.

    They sell a huge array of paints, canvasses, sewing/embroidery, and craft materials. They sell model making kits and gift sets, dried flowers and balloons. You name it and they probably have it. And its huge. But vastly overpriced.

    The thing for me is if you know what you want and what you are doing and you just want craft materials - its alot cheaper on the net. However if you do want idiot-proof step by step instruction on how to be 'arty’ this is probably the place for you.

    Certain friends of mine will argue that this is a great place to get kids involved. Maybe it is , and call me a scrooge, but my kids will be collecting worms,feathers and leaves and making collages from them just like I used to do.

    Tags , ,

    helpful

    4 people thought this review was helpful

    Comment (3) | Report this content | Compliment

  • Bargain Booze - Tamworth

    4 4 reviews

    11 Church Street, Tamworth, Staffordshire B79 7DH

    Bargain Booze

    1pxt nikfry last updated on 12-12-2008:

    This off licence is an institution amongst myself and my old school friends. It was the place we - ahem used to go to try and get served when wwe were about 16 with diamond white on a saturday night. Occasionally I think we did manage it … but laws were not quite so tight back in the 'old’ days. I am sure that they are alot more careful now. Its situated right next to one of the best pubs in Tamworth 'Bonds’ which I have reviewed seperately and they both have the same kind of chilled out laid back vibe. The alcohol is cheap - as the name suggests and they do good deals on cigarettes if you are so inclined (I am a reformed smoker… although I have the occasional lapse after a few gins). I disagree with the other comment about the staff - I think they are very friendly. Yes down to earth and typical Tamworthians/Tammies who like to call a spade a spade. But I am sure they have to deal with an awful lot of abuse on a typical saturday night so I guess they have to have a reasonably thick hide.

    Tags , , , ,

    helpful

    4 people thought this review was helpful

    Comment (0) | Report this content | Compliment

  • Kerry Collins - Tamworth

    5 1 review

    Market Street, Tamworth, Staffordshire B79 7LR

    Kerry Collins

    1pxt nikfry last updated on 12-12-2008:

    Excellent recruitment agency centrally located in Tamworth. The girls here are really friendly and professional. It takes about 20 mins or so to register and they make you feel really at ease, then they look for a placement on your behalf. They deal with temporary and pemanent jobs and with most industries. They will also point you in the right direction if you are not sure what you want to so and will give you help with writing a Cv if you need it. There are roles from management through to warehouse workers, drivers and secretarial. Their biggest client is a huge local call centre and so its also good for younger less experienced people or those looking for a teturn to work - as no specific experience is needed for this company. First class !!

    Tags , ,

    helpful

    4 people thought this review was helpful

    Comment (0) | Report this content | Compliment

  • Boots The Chemists - Tamworth

    5 2 reviews

    A Ventura Shopping Centre, Ventura Park Road Bonehill, Tamworth, Staffordshire B78 3HB

    Boots The Chemists

    1pxt nikfry last updated on 11-12-2008:

    This Boots is a whole lot bigger than the one in the town centre and has a much wider variety of products. They have the kids/baby clothing range and a massive cosmetics range. It should be the better of the two .. its got more of everything and its certainly much easier to get around with the kids in tow - however it just lacks something. That something is the friendly and personalised service you get in the smaller branch. Of course I understand they have thousands of customers so they aren’t exactly gonna remember your name or your face for that matter. But they just seem disinterested in general. They also seem to have very little choice in meal deals for some reason. They also do that annoying thing where they spray perfume on you as you walk past - always makes me sneeze or choke. Sorry pet hate.
    Also for a store this size I am amazed there are no toilets.

    Tags , , ,

    helpful

    4 people thought this review was helpful

    Comment (1) | Report this content | Compliment

  • poundland - Tamworth

    4 3 reviews

    ankerside shopping center, Tamworth, Staffordshire

    poundland

    1pxt nikfry last updated on 01-12-2008:

    I cannot really remember before the poundland concept arrived in Tamworth. I know the unit used to be a Tescos when I was a kid but I cant say I can actually remember it. I say this because I remember it being sooooo exciting as a child going in this shop - and now I am all grown up with kids of my own - they are the same.

    Now this new version has opened in Ankerside and is even better than the original…

    I have seen many similar places over the years but this place knocks spots of em - its huge!!! its actually really well laid out and the staff are really down to earth and cheerful. There is a fantastic selection of toys, household goods, toiletries and novelty items.

    Its a good place to take my son when he is on school hols and wants something new to do - as it won’t break the bank. we have had plaster of paris mould kits from here before, big packs of card and pom poms, stickers etc,. and had hours of fun getting creative.

    Its also great to pick up little stocking fillers here for xmas - yes you have to scour through alot of Tat - but thats half of the fun. They even sell kids dvds here for a quid - thats a bargain.

    The only thing I will say is that you can get carried away and buy things for a pound that would probably only be 79p in Asda. But I guess they have to make a profit somewhere.

    Tags , , , ,

    helpful

    3 people thought this review was helpful

    Comment (0) | Report this content | Compliment

Places reviewed by nikfry