Last week we visited the recently opened Kings Cafe, in Kings Court, Altrincham.  And what a pleasant surprise.  I was incredibly impressed.  

We arrived towards the end of lunch time, and it was still pretty busy.  It’s amazing to think that only 2 people were able to prepare and serve all the meals!  Very efficient indeed.

We just wanted something light to eat, and as they don’t serve Eggs Benedict, I did have the opportunity to put them in the running for the Egg Benedict award (the search for the best Eggs Benedict in Altrincham and Hale).

I ordered the Asparagus, Feta and fresh green pea bruschetta.  It was presented beautifully – striking the balance of between light bite and big enough to last you the whole afternoon.

Within the first mouthful, I was in heaven.  I thought it might be interesting, but I didn’t expect it to be so flavoursome, fresh and bursting with beautiful contrasting textures.  

Unfortunately though, it was one of the specials, so if you go in on another day, it may not be available.  However, if you’re lucky enough to go in when they have it on the specials list – I recommend it highly.

I was there with my mum and dad, who are from South Africa, so my dad was quite keen to try the Spicy African Potato Soup.  He loved it.  It was tasty, hearty and was served with thick crusty bread and butter.

My mum opted from the flatbread served with harissa, hummus and olives.  She made the mistake of offering my dad and I a taste of the harissa, which was outstanding – which meant we wanted more!  I would go as far as to say that it was the best harissa I have had in a very long time.  At first I thought the portion size was on the small size, but actually it was probably just right for a light lunch.

Would I go back?  Absolutely.  Would I make a special trip to go to the cafe, or only pop in if I were passing?  I’d make a special effort!

Is there anything they could be doing differently?  If I were picky, the only things I could fault in any way, is that it is difficult to see the one specials board as it is a blackboard on the side of the counter, and as there is generally someone up at the counter ordering, paying etc, you cannot see the specials until they move away.  Also, as they are incredibly busy, it would be nice to be acknowledged with a ‘be with you in a minute’ when you go up to order.  

But other than that, it was an incredibly positive and superb lunchtime experience.  I’ll be back.

You can visit Kings CafeKings Court, WA14 2RD Altrincham, Tel 0161 929 5000, Twitter, @KingsCafe2013