My family think I’m stark-raving bonkers [ they’d not be far wrong I guess ] They have no idea how blogging works or what it is all about.

I’m a constant source of entertainment to them especially when I ask for a #OOTD photo. They take my photos [under duress] while shouting “poser” or “frustrated model” at me!

A few weeks ago I received an invite for myself and up to 3 friends to attend the press evening of the newly refurbished Prince of Wales at the top of Ecclesall Road. I thought “ha ha” this would be the perfect opportunity for the family to pop along ; see how it works and what I do. It would also be fabulous to spend some quality time together. Since mum died it’s something we don’t do enough.

So last Wednesday evening myself and the ‘lads’ – my Dad, Brother Mark and Boyfriend Michael popped across to have a sneaky peak at the changes for ourselves before it opens to the public on Saturday 26th January .

We were  treated to a selection of canapés, a 3 course meal and all our drinks.

Goodies at the Gin Infusion Bar

Gin & Tonic by an open fire

As part of the refurbishment, the pubs indoor and outdoor spaces have both received an extensive makeover. Its a traditional pub but the Interior is modern,  warm and a lot more vibrant.

It looks stunning and very welcoming.

With a large Gin in hand we made our way to the Lounge area. We sat, chilled for a while in the plush comfty arm chairs and surveyed our surroundings. A selection of canapés at hand to kerb any hunger pangs.

In addition to these changes , The Prince of Wales has also launched a new range of high protein, low-calorie dishes to help guests stay healthy into the New Year. These include a wide selection of choices all under 750 calories, including delicious king prawn, crab and chorizo linguine and stir fried beef fillet salad.

It has also introduced a new improved vegan menu, which will make a lot of people extremely happy.

We were shown to our table and set about deciding what to choose to eat. There is a vast selection with all angles covered – Salads, Pizza, Steak , Pasta etc

The only complaint from our group came from my Dad who had an issue with the lighting . There was a lovely ambience throughout but it was quite dark in the restaurant area and he struggled to read the menu. This was quickly rectified by shining our mobile phone screens onto the menu for him.

He is 75 … but it is an issue that needs to be addressed; I noted several other people appeared to be struggling too .

Starters:

The majority of us plumped for Scallops Of the day – £5.95

My brother Mark choose the Salt and Pepper Squid with aioli – £6.95

I would recommend both, although if I visited again I would have the squid. I’m always the same … I always want what somebody else on my table has ordered.

Mains:

We had a variety of dishes between us.

It’s not very exciting but I choose one of the new healthy salads mainly because “I am Tracey and I am a ‘avocado -holic ”

Chicken , Bacon and Avocado salad with baby kale and spinach – £12.95

Dad had Roasted Pork Belly with scallops potato dauphinoise, butternut squash purée, green beans, toasted almonds, crackling and red wine jus – £18.50 . He said it was perfectly cooked.

Mark choose the 7oz Fillet Steak with Peppercorn Sauce and chunky twice cooked chips – £24.50

While Michael plumped for King Prawn, Crab and Chorizo Linguine – £13.95

There wasn’t much talking going on as we all tucked in. When I asked if anything could be improved I got a shake of the head. Even  the fussy-eater amongst us – The BF had no complaints [bloody hell ! ]

They all agreed they were very happy with their meals and would definitely come back again.

That’s before pudding!

Dessert :

The first thing we all commented on was the size of the portions.

No small measures here.  The desserts are large … much to my delight. I love my puds as does the BF who woofed his Sticky Toffee Pudding and custard [£6.50] down before I had the chance to take a photo.

He obviously didn’t get the memo … you can’t eat until I’ve taken a photo!

New York Style Baked Vanilla Cheesecake – £6.50

I plumped for this. It was beautifully light and very tasty . I want a piece right now !

Apple and Blackberry Crumble with Custard – £5.95

Dad said he struggled to eat this as he was full from the previous courses . I think he has himself on at times as I didn’t see any struggling . He woofed it down in quick smart time!

Warm Belgium Chocolate Brownie and Ice Cream -£ 6.50

It looked and smelt like heaven; according to Mark it was.

Followed by a Pornstar Martini [ which was delicious] for me.  A beer for the boys and then a coffee to wash it all down.

All in all we had a great evening.

Beautiful surroundings , great food and service … and of course superb company.

We are planning to revisit in a few weeks.

Shall I see you there ?

Prince of Wales – 95 Ecclesall Road South, Sheffield S11 9PH

There is a large car-park

Tracey x

* AD – The meal and drinks were complimentary in exchange for a review. As always all thoughts and opinions are strictly my own. Thankyou *