You order the signature dish: Steak In The Stix. It arrives on a wooden board that looks like it was carved from a tree in the parking lot. The steak is a massive, thick-cut ribeye, glistening with butter and a crust that is crackly perfection. It sits there, smug and magnificent, like a celebrity who doesn’t have to try.
The first bite? Wow. It’s tender enough to cut with a stern look. The flavor is beefy, smoky, and has a hint of garlic that whispers, “I’m fancy, but I’m also your best friend.” The chips (fries, to you Americans) are triple-cooked and salted like a sailor’s vocabulary. They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and dangerously addictive.
And then there’s the gravy. Oh, the gravy. It’s a peppery, beefy river of joy that you will want to drink with a straw. The waitress will bring extra, and you will not be ashamed to ask for a third. You are not just a diner; you are a gravy explorer.
The Sides: Supporting Actors Who Steal the Show
You can get a side of roasted bone marrow. Yes, bone marrow. It comes with little toast soldiers and a sprinkle of sea salt. You scoop it out with a tiny spoon, spread it on the bread, and suddenly your life has purpose. It’s buttery, rich, and feels like a hug from a cow who really loved you.
The Ratcatchers - Norwich, Norfolk | favouritetable
Another option is the “Stix Mushrooms” – wild fungi sautéed in garlic and thyme. They are so earthy and juicy, you half expect them to start telling you about their micro-dose of truffle oil. They pair with the steak like peanut butter and jelly, but for grown-ups who pay taxes.
