Orange Rooms, Southampton

4:55pm Friday 4th April 2008

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THIS is very often the first place I think of for a night out - much like most of Southampton.

But it's not, in the past, been an obvious choice for a bite to eat.

But it has all changed now I've sampled a menu which has clearly been put together with love.

The Orange Rooms menu is extensive and varied, including English classics and favourites from all over the world. Some examples include Beef Burrito, Thai Green Curry, Fish and Chips, Meat Balls and Caesar Salad.

What really impresses is the promised fresh approach to food where, unlike many bars serving food, every effort is made to use free range, organic produce sourced locally.

Everything is freshly prepared and cooked to order, but we still found the service very quick if you are watching the clock one lunchtime.

A friend and I found a table, two very comfy chairs and settled in for an hour.

The choices looked so appetising we couldn't resist an Orange Rooms platter for two to start. We shared a huge helping of delicious Piri-piri calamari, barbecue pork ribs, Cajun chicken strips and spiced potato wedges, served with sweet chilli sauce and garlic mayonnaise.

Slightly concerned at our already bulging stomachs, we nevertheless tucked into main courses with gusto.

I opted for a Pork and Bramley apple burger on recommendation. This cross between a sausage and a burger proved a real winner.

The meat was tasty and well cooked and served with excellent accompanying burger relish, fries and salad.

My companion really enjoyed her Smokey Joe - chicken breast stuffed with mozzarella and wrapped in bacon with chips and barbecue sauce.

If you can stretch to dessert after those mountains of savouries, there's a good selection of favourites including cheesecake, brownie, bread and butter pudding and ice cream.

Surprisingly, an impressive children's menu is also available.

The Orange Rooms is definitely worth making a regular lunch or tea spot as well as an evening watering hole. Food is served from midday to 9pm weekdays, 12pm to 7pm on Saturdays and 5pm to 9pm on Sunday.

Orange Rooms, Vernon Walk, Southampton.

Tel: 023 8023 2333, orangerooms.co.uk