The Cavalier, Sunderland, England

We decided to order a special meal for our anniversary instead of going out due to my Fibromyalgia. The Bruschetta starter was not traditional, with overpowering melted cheese and huge chunks of tomatoes. My husband enjoyed his large portion of Smothered Potato Skins. My steak was cooked perfectly but the Diane sauce lacked flavor and the mushrooms were bland. The Sticky Toffee puddings were delicious but the portion of cream was very small. Overall, the food lacked flavor and the starter was disappointing. Although the service was good and portions were generous, we probably wouldn't order from this restaurant again. It was a shame as it affected what should have been a perfect evening. We wished we had gone out instead.

Food was truly awful, no atmosphere in the restaurant section and very sparse. Staff were nice and friendly and service was prompt but could not make up for terrible food. Won’t be returning and would not recommend.

Visited The Cavalier yesterday for a drink in the beer garden, wanted something small to eat to not spoil our tea. Opted for the mixed meat platter starter to share with my partner, was very disappointed when it arrived, personally felt for £8.95 wasn’t worth the price.

Had lunch with my girlfriends today and it was flawless. The service was great, the food was absolutely incredible, and the portion sizes were generous even with a 50% discount on the a la carte menu. Definitely recommend checking it out.

We went on Christmas day 2018. We booked in August and chose from the menu well in advance. My mother uses a wheelchair and the staff were very friendly and helpful explaining that there is a ramp at the back and we would get access through the back door. We did this on Christmas day and our table was conveniently placed near to the door. Our table was booked for 2pm and the starters arrived at 2pm. We did order two childrens portions and four adults, but six adult portions arrived no problem from our point of view. Starters were hot and fresh, same for the main course, probably too much food per portion, the desserts were lovely. Very friendly service, the room was large, but not overcrowded with tables to cram in as may people as they could (as other restaurant do) the staff were very busy but had the time to make sure things were ok with us.