The Lightning Tree - Brunch Monday 4th May

I want the Lightning Tree to do well.

In fact, my partner enjoys the odd cup of coffee there every now and again and finds it a nice relaxed day-time bar.

However, I've really not got too many good things to say here. Apart from the friendly welcome from the ladies behind the bar, it pretty much went downhill after that.

2 eggs benedict took about 40 minutes to make, which considering there were only 2 other tables of customers is poor to say the least.

When we got the food, another few minutes passed before cutlery was delivered, perfectly timed to cool the food to about 'slightly warm'. Tucking into the food, muffins were obviously in short supply, so crumpets were used. The eggs were hard boiled and covered in what looked like set custard, but was in fact hollandaise sauce.

So, not a great reccomendation here and I have to say there are definitley better places to brunch in Windsor. Time to make a return to Ha Ha Bar I think, for one of the best cooked breakfasts around.

GL

The Lightning Tree is on St Leonards Road, Windsor

Echo - Dinner Saturday 2nd May 2009

Boy does the former Claudios look good!

It's as friendly and welcoming as ever, and the transformation from evening eatery to alround lunch, bar and dinner is well underway.

Saturday nights get booked up quickly but we managed to squeeze in for a meal on the fly before the main sitting at 8pm.

The 2 for 1 cockatil hour(s) from 5-7pm was a good start and a few well made Mango and Strawberry Mojitos went down quickly.

The menu is still perfectly simple and appetising, and very much in the locally sourced and seasonal vein.

The chicken pate was a tasty starter, but I regretted not choosing the Sea Bass for main, which was my partner's choice. My seasonal asparagus, poached egg and new potato salad was a great dish, but I was expecting a runny yolk and was left disappointed.

We skipped desert this time and missed out on the live band which usually starts around 9.30pm, but still a well priced and enjoyable meal out.

Next time, we'll be there to try out lunch or will be out with a group of frineds for the whole night!

GL

Echo is on Peascod Street in Windsor