The thrill at No.20

TWO spoons . . . dessert

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MAYBE why The Grill at No.20 sounds like an email address is because you WILL leave here very full.com.

It's .org(anised) too. Service ­- tick. Ambience ­- that'll be a smiley face. And food . . . OMG "Like".

Tucked away on Retiro Street, The Grill is one of Oldham town centre's hidden gems. An extensive menu offers plenty to go at ­- from pasta dishes and risottos to fresh fish and fillet steak. British classics too like bangers and mash, not to mention the specials.

And it's all beautifully presented with an array of delicately arranged accompaniments ­- a real feast for the eyes to get those taste buds popping before you even dive in.

Worth mentioning there's a tapas option on Fridays if you've got an "el" of an appetite (eight dishes and a bottle of wine for £30 . . . not too shabby).

The attentive staff couldn't have been more welcoming as we were led to our table following a swift Saturday night tipple at the bar.

Mrs R was mesmerised by the sound of meatballs in tomato sauce topped with melted cheese to start, while I plumped for the creamy mushroom soup ­- all served with warm toasty bread for dunking. A triumph on both counts, especially as we didn't dollop any down our garb ­- a first for us . . . too good to waste.

After (a lot) of deliberation ­- my better half being sorely tempted by the bangers ­- the missus remembered we were fine dining here and, eventually, opted for the chargrilled chicken breast, fluffy mash and steamed veggies.

Torn

Me being me, predictably torn between swordfish and one of four succulent steaks, the 10oz sirloin (just) had the edge.

Again, we weren't disappointed, especially as mine came with a crafty side order of chunky triple-cooked chips ­- hands off, the wife.

The medium-rare meat treat was cooked to perfection ­- flavoursome, tender and lean ­- piping hot too, just how I like it.

Mrs R's chicken was "epic", the mash "proper fit". Fresh-as-a-daisy greens alongside were also remarked upon, mange-tout a particular hit.

Like peas in a pod we couldn't manage a dessert each but the chocolate brownie caramel sundae proved far too tempting . . . just the one mind, two spoons.

Secret popcorn surprises submerged inside were a nice touch ­- perhaps a nod to the nearby cinema.

A true blockbuster of a night - although we have fallen into the "now showing" category belly-wise. Highly recommended.