As I did both last weekend, I was feeling pretty happy with myself.
Mummy Toner and myself — ahead of placing our bets and crossing our fingers that the, ahem, multiple horses would somehow capture the four placings — headed to Cutters Wharf in Belfast.
It was an inclement day, and our lunch was peppered with the drawing up and down of blinds and watching enthusiastic rowers get a bit soggy on the Lagan.
Neither of us had visited Cutters in many years, but we were instantly impressed by its warmth of service and actual warmth.
It was relatively quiet, though it did become busier while we were there, and the team was brilliant in ensuring all our culinary needs were met.
The menu isn’t especially large but contains ample choice. My mum opted for the chicken stack, versions of which I’ve spotted in various restaurants and something she had yet to order.
It arrived, without pepper sauce, hot and delicious looking. A generous chicken breast, plenty of champ, a selection of root vegetables and broccoli and a duo of delectable onion rings.
Seeing them, I said a silent thank you to the deep-fried vegetable gods that we had ordered an extra portion.
Chicken stack at Cutters Wharf
My mum was immediately impressed with her meal and tucked in happily. Once you’ve got the seal of approval, you’re golden.
I ordered the steak sandwich, which was, hands down, the best I’ve had.
Pieces of well-cooked steak (cooked to my liking) mingled with onions and mushrooms in a pepper sauce that was the right side of piquant, served on toasted buttered ciabatta.
It comes with a choice of side, and a bowl of garlic chips was presented. They weren’t too garlicky in my mind, so a small ramekin of melted garlic butter was swiftly brought to the table.
But the onion rings. There were five or six of them as a side: light and crispy but not weighed down in batter. A great textural accompaniment to the soft steak and bread.
But we weren’t done yet. Mummy T ordered the banoffee for dessert. A significant portion arrived with squirts of cream and chocolate sauce.
It looked impressive and she agreed it was delicious but would prefer ice cream next time rather than the served cream.
I had the Oreo sundae, with Oreo ice-cream, cream, a duo of sauces and half a large cookie stuck on top. Which, let’s be honest, is a more delightful thing to eat than an actual Oreo.
Cutters Wharf
It was cooling after the peppery sauce and most welcome. I would go back for that cookie alone.
Mummy T said she would return without hesitation and I’d agree.
It’s not often we spend time close to the river, despite growing up beside it.
The weather cleared up as we had our teas and left, full of food, ready to place bets on that 4pm race.
The food
Total £72.60
The rating