IT’S BEEN EXCITING TO SEE THE RENAISSANCE OF NEW BRIGHTON OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS. ONE OF THE MANY ATTRACTIONS, IN THE AREA, IS VICTORIA ROAD. THE FLORAL PAVILION IS AROUND THE CORNER ON THE WATERFRONT. AND AMONGST THE ONE OR TWO EXCELLENT RESTAURANTS IS THE OLIVE TREE, THAT HAS WON SEVERAL WIRRAL TOURISM AWARDS: IT’S INDEPENDENT, IT’S FAMILY RUN, AND THE CHARMING AND EFFICIENT STAFF ARE INVESTED IN ITS SUCCESS.

A copy of His & Hers magazine is usually to be found there, as are we. We’ve never had anything but lovely food there. They have specials, and are lucky enough to have a chef who isn’t afraid to try new, daring, and ultimately mouth-watering concoctions.

After a warm welcome and a glass of excellent Merlot, we are blown away by the Red Onion + Fennel Bhagis (with mango chutney, coriander and mint raita). Simple words cannot express how delicious this dish is, it’s the combination of flavours, and a subtle combination of heat and cooling raita that works magic.

It’s home cooking with a gourmet twist. King Prawns + Crayfish Linguini, cooked in chili and garlic oil was a perfect accompaniment: the quality of the fish makes the dish. My companion chose Posh Fish ‘Fingers’ Buttered Cod Goujons, (with rocket tartar and cherry toms, lemon, coleslaw and fries). It’s a winning combination and tastes as good as it sounds.

There isn’t always room for dessert, but the Brownies with ice-cream or cream are home-made, and manage the crispness with the gooiness, and the quality of the dark chocolate provides the right flavour, (I’m an expert at cooking Brownies, and these are as good as mine, if not slightly better).

It’s a great place to eat, has a friendly and efficient vibe, and you can go on to the theatre or film, both within easy walking distance.

Phone: 0151 638 1810, www.olivetreenb.com

Related feature: We pay a visit to the iconic Alma De Cuba.