The only previous connection I had made between Revolution and a bite to eat was the disappointing takeaway that followed many a student night there.
But pleasantly surprised by how fresh and exciting the menu looked, I went to see what the hype was about.
The bar chain are probably best known for their flavoured shots of vodka, including those that supposedly taste of melted ice cream and black pepper (not together, thankfully).
Dragging my other half into the Cross Church Street venue for a post-work meal, the first thing that was immediately noticeable was the pleasant atmosphere.
I half expected an evening of screaming over the top of thumping music to discuss weekend plans.
But instead we were met with a friendly atmosphere, and even friendlier staff, that was no different to walking into any restaurant.
I had sadly picked a night when both of us were driving, so although boyfriend Dave managed to get away with a glass of Sauvignon (very crisp apparently, for a bar that specialises in vodka), I stuck to Diet Coke.
When I say vodka is Revolution’s thing, I mean it’s really their thing.
Offerings on the menu included a vodka pizza called The Vodfather, burgers with vodka salsa, and even a pizza that bore “vodka chicken” – chicken breast marinated in chilli-flavoured vodka.
It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but you have to give them some credit for creativity, as well as to those who stumble out of the doors slurring their words at 3am after bingeing on too much, er, pizza.
I ordered a chicken wrap that came with houmous and sweet potato wedges, while Dave settled for a seafood platter and some cilantro chicken skewers to share.
While the wrap was filling, it was nothing particularly exciting. That said, the lovely waiter said afterwards “it’s not known for being the best dish”.
But the seafood platter was beautiful.
Perfectly cooked and just like you would eat at any decent gastropub, but at a much friendlier price.
All in all, well worth a visit. But stay clear of the pizza if you’re driving.
