The Trading Route

This was our second Sunday visit, and once again, the food was absolutely amazing! Compliments to the head chef (the gentleman with the long hair) — we had the pleasure to meet him personally, and he was fantastic. You can tell he truly cares about the food and the guests. The kitchen team is honestly carrying the whole experience! However, the front-of-house service really needs improvement. When we arrived, we were seated but no one came to take our order. After waiting a while, we went up to the bar to ask, only to be told there’s no table service. So we ordered at the bar — and just a couple of minutes later, another staff member came over and told us, “Of course there’s table service.” It was a bit confusing and not very well coordinated. Then our drinks arrived — two pints instead of one. When we explained we had only ordered one (considering it’s just the two of us and a toddler, and I’m pregnant), they tried to insist we had ordered two. It was a little awkward, especially since we had clearly mentioned when ordering that I’d need my meat cooked well because of the pregnancy. The food, however, made up for the chaos — everything was delicious, perfectly cooked, and beautifully presented. Once the service matches the standard set by the kitchen, this place will be absolutely perfect.

Stopped into Trading Route for lunch and for the first time ever, today. It’s a large, bustling bar / kitchen - with a combination of communal dining tables and more intimate seating for twos. The house speciality is rotisserie chicken and the menu is short and focused. I ordered the chicken Caesar which, was spot on. Delicious, shredded roast chicken, crispy lettuce, proper homemade croutons, a tangy dressing - all covered in a blizzard of grated Parmesan. Served as a decent main course sized dish. I’ll report back on the Chicken, pistachio pesto and baby gem sandwich that was ordered to go. Service was friendly but a little slow - only two servers working the floor and they also seemed to be manning the bar too. Loved the soundtrack too. They sell whole and half chickens with pickles, Romesco and mayo sauce so I’ll definitely be back.

I’ve visited here twice now (the picture of the beef dinner is from my first visit). Love the staff & love the food even more. Next visit I do intend on trying the turkey Xmas dinner! Also wish the restaurant was a little warmer, as I did feel quite cold but honestly this isn’t a major issue at all. Would def recommend!