Valencia Tapas and Spanish Restaurant, Northenden Road, Sale M33 3BR
Telephone 0161 905 1328

One of readers sent our Editor, Helen, an email suggesting we visit this restaurant. We were happy to oblige. You will find it in a row of shops, restaurants and takeaways at the Sale end of Northenden Road.

Valencia is bright and airy with a cosy feel to it. The name comes courtesy of a Spaniard from Valencia who is one of the business partners and also the chef. He is an interesting character who has vineyards and olive groves back in Spain and is also a wine connoisseur with a very good nose (as in wine, not Barry Manilow).

There were several families in having an early supper; quite busy for a Tuesday. One of them was the other business partner, a fellow called Steve. We have met Steve and his family previously at other social occasions and whilst I had heard on the grapevine (back to wine) he had an interest in a restaurant in Sale I was unaware it was Valencia. He recognised us as we came in, came over, greeted us and offered us a glass of wine.

There is a specials board on the wall and an extensive tapas offering and an attractive Spanish menu.

My lady friend ordered a wide selection of tapas which looked and tasted terrific. I kept taking small samples in the interests of providing accurate information for this column, but ceased when threatened with a fork. We had a jug of iced water and a bottle of house red, which was very smooth indeed.

I had lambs kidneys cooked in sherry to start followed by lamb shank with mashed potatoes and vegetables. The meat was falling off the bone. Delicious.

We shared a pancake filled with cherries for dessert; piping hot and lovely. We were full to capacity and had to force the last spoonfuls down. It was simply too good to leave,

What really impressed me was the buzz around the place. Tony came out in his whites of the kitchen and wandered around talking to his customers, including us. Steve did the same. These days you don’t often see this front of house, hands on, walking the floor, meeting the customers approach from management and owners.

The bill came to £45, which is great value. They have a children’s menu, a Happy Hour up to 06.30 and a take away service.

Will we return?

Good food, great atmosphere, tasty wine. Absolutely.

Our Verdict

Atmosphere 9/10
Service 8/10
Food 9/10