What's the vibe like?
After running in from the rain and (er) a rather erratic bus journey, one might have been forgiven for feeling slightly stressed. But as soon as I arrived tand saw my parents, relaxing on the time-beaten leather couches, a real sense of calm was instilled. The Orange Tree is pretty laid-back. The staff were attentive and yet didn't badger us to order.
The décor is pretty eclectic but not contrived as place with lots of random old objects can often feel. The Orange Tree is homely like someone has really invested time finding the right objects from a car boot (that, in my book, can only be a good thing). With plenty of big tables to gather your mates around, or battered leather armchairs and sofas to gather your mates around, it'll suit whatever night you're after. Dad was especially digging the old telly there, until it sparked a bit of a marital 'discussion' (sample lines included 'I like that fifties TV.' 'That's not from the 50's. Tellies weren't that big in the 50's. That's from the 60's.' 'Noooo, it's not. Look at it!)
When would you go?
Before a night out. Before a meal or after the cinema. I hear the pub quiz on a Sunday is well worth a punt, too.
How about the menu?
Speaking to the staff, it would be fair to say that they certainly know their stuff. The cocktail menu was extensive, without being overwhelming, and the staff were more than happy to make drinks suggestions based on what we liked. On the whole, we were very happy with our drinks. Dad pretty much fell in love with his Gin Atomic, which is like a GnT, but with elderflower juice, and my step-mum was quite keen on her Stoney Bison.
What's the drink to try?
I opted for a Golden Treasure and had no regrets. Whilst it sounds like playground slang for something a bit rude, it was expertly mixed and exceptionally gluggable. With a mix of Bacardi, Goldschlager and grapefruit, it was tropical with a bit of a kick - like a hot cross bun on holiday.
Is it a good date spot?
Granted going for drinks with your parents isn't the same sort of vibe as going out with someone you fancy, but I'd definitely bring my boyfriend here. It's cosy, chilled and also skates the line between being a casual enough venue for a first date, but still being fancy enough to feel like a treat.
Is it worth the cash?
Given that similar bars in this fair city charge a good few quid more per drink, I would definitely say that this is worth walking the extra 100m away from the main strip. Most cocktails were just over a fiver, and there's also a Happy Hour most days, too. Bottom line is, with great drinks at a decent price and a cosy couch to sink into, I would quite happily return there and indeed plan to do so.
Follow Anna on Twitter @Annamurphjourno
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*Find out more about The Orange Tree here. *
This article originally appeared on The Debrief.