Elliotts - Hayling Island

On a sunny Sunday we went in spite of any misgivings to the SE end of Hayling Island. I was in fact far more motivated by railway remains than food but the time of day suggested lunch. Mercifully standing out from nearby grim diners, was Elliotts located according to its self penned history available at the tables, in adjacent converted cottages. There is a pleasant restaurant which does not look especially inviting from the outside but is clean and efficiently run inside. Food from an extensive menu is brought by polite, well presented and well spoken waitresses whose attentiveness does not waver during the meal even as the evidently popular venue fills up.

We both chose specials and left satisfied if slightly overwhelmed by the generous portions. Orders were delivered correctly and quickly. You might find this strange to remark upon but it simply does not happen everywhere these days.

The property includes a chip shop which was very busy. Although I did not sample its fare, the fish dishes which were brought to the restaurant looked impressive with crisp golden batter clearly cooked at the correct (high) temperature. Such was the turnover, no piece of fish ever stood long enough to wilt.

It was not haute cuisine nor did it pretend to be and it deserves at least 8.5 out of 10.