New to my blog but settling in very nicely on the Wirral food and drink scene is The Viking Pub and Bake House, sat proudly on West Kirby‘s Black Horse Hill. Owned by acclaimed chef, Simon Rimmer, The Viking presents a pocket of Scandinavian style with its bleached wood interior, craft beers and an eclectic menu of Nordic and classic British cuisine. The bustling bar is always well stocked with everything from local brews, artisan gins and Nordic beers to milkshakes, bespoke cocktails and a bloody good hot chocolate.
Knowing its cosy atmosphere and friendly staff pretty well by now and looking for somewhere with consistently high spirits and good quality food, we chose The Viking as the setting for a rare family meal while my brother was home from the US for Christmas.
Around our table for five we went for a few starters to share and a main each because that’s what happens when you’re a bunch of indecisive devils. For round one we had the Garlic, Parmesan & Tomato Flatbread (a firm family favourite), the Sticky Chilli Chicken, a bowl of wintery Parsnip Soup and a portion of Cheshire Porkies. I partook in the flatbread, the sticky battered chicken and the honey & mustard chipolatas, all of which were delicious. I’m not sure the ‘Porkies’ were quite a match for a very similar appetiser I had at 59 at The Hollies but the sticky, sweet and spicy chicken fillets were knockout. I almost wish they were on the main menu with a nice coconut and pineapple rice… Any chance, guys?
For our main courses we ordered three Turkey Curry, the Viking Double Cheeseburger and the Fish Finger Sandwich (sans tartare sauce). Mine was the latter and an unusual choice for me but something I just fancied on the day after a whole host of meat dishes during Christmas. Naturally, I did spear my fork into the Turkey Curry (just for research purposes of course) and it was perfectly tasty and not too spicy for those who can’t handle too much heat. Both the Double Cheeseburger and the breaded fish fillets came served with delicious fries and were both sandwiched between toasty golden brioche buns which was a nice light alternative after our flatbread starter.
We’ve been regulars at The Viking since it opened its doors in West Kirby last year an while the food wasn’t necessarily up to scratch this time round, we’re still massive fans of the Scandi eatery. I’m guessing the festive rush and a packed-to-the-rafters restaurant may have just taken its toll slightly this time. The breakfast offering is fabulous and The Viking Sunday Roast is one of the best on the Wirral for sure so do give it a go if you find yourself nearby.
Oh and anybody that serves a Jammy Dodger with my post-food cuppa is a friend of mine!
Word to the wise: I would recommend booking a table at The Viking if you fancy giving it a go as it seems to be the Regina George of Wirral restaurants (i.e. uber popular). Seriously, this gaff fills up faster than my Dad‘s wine glass on a Friday night so do plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
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