Austrian musical feast is a hit

1:20pm Thursday 9th August 2007

Comments (2)   Have your say »

NOT so much finger licking good as thigh slappingly great an evening's dining at the Old Vienna restaurant is not for those of a timid disposition.

For at this authentic Austrian, the famous Viennese hospitality is immediately evident and almost instantly demands diner participation.

In fact the old adage of singing for your supper was never truer.

Whilst delicious and generous in its nature the food from the set menu was almost a secondary consideration the minute the evening's entertainment arrived.

Its not often you get to witness two grown men in leiderhosen playing up a storm on the accordion and horn.

But to dismiss the food so lightly would be doing a disservice to the chef whose toils created the dishes we enjoyed while being regaled with authentic German and Austrian folk songs as well as some a little more familiar.

First to whet our appetite was chicken liver parfait and deep fried marinated goat's cheese, both of which were delicious.

Having taken the decision to embrace our surroundings we both decided to go native with our main course selections.

For me the turkey schnitzel was well cooked and not in the slightest bit dry. Across the table my boyfriend's choice of pork medallions in a calvados sauce with sauerkraut was a big hit.

Both dishes came with a generous helping of potatoes and vegetables that were served at the table by the friendly and efficient waiting staff.

With the promise of a disco later to round off the evening, we decided we could work off any excess calories and chose our desserts accordingly.

For him it could be none other than the personal favourite of Black Forest Gateau, which according to the menu countless customers had returned for time and again.

It was easy to see why. I on the other hand selected the no less delightful mixed berry Pavlova, which arrived as all the dishes had, exquisitely presented.

With coffee on its way, the next arrival at our table caused much merriment.

Song sheets to ensure we participated in the ensuing music fest that had the whole restaurant, clapping, singing and om-pah pah pah-ing themselves hoarse.

With is only fault being its tired décor, leaving well fed and thoroughly entertained, the Old Vienna delivers an experience not to be missed.

The Old Vienna Restaurant, Eastwood Road, Leigh 01702 476568

What we ate

Chicken Liver Parfait served with Melba toast Marinated deep fried goat's cheese Turkey Schnitzel Vienna Style Pork medallions with calvados sauce and sauerkraut Black Forest Gateau Mixed Berry Pavlova Coffee and mints Set price including entertainment: £27.50 per person

Our Verdict

Food 4/5 Atmosphere 5/5 Décor 2/5 Service 5/5