TASTE TEST: Prestatyn's hidden gem Tudor House

Rhyl Journal

a day ago

I had several places in mind, Prestatyn really has an excellent array of eateries, from fine dining at Dishes to one of the best Asian restaurants in North Wales, Chynna Garden.
But amid the multi-coloured Pride flags, my attention was drawn to two bird cages.
Bird outside Tudor House (Image: Matt Warner) What kind of café has exotic birds at the door?
Birdcage at Tudor House (Image: Matt Warner)Tudor House does, and there is so much more eccentricity within.
So, thanks to those two colourful birds, the decision was made.
The place was decked out in rainbows to celebrate Prestatyn's first Pride, as were the majority of the High Street's businesses that day.
Tudor House like many businesses in town was decorated for Prestatyn Pride (Image: Matt Warner)It's great to see a local business that is at the heart of the community, and a quick look on the Tudor's social media suggest that's exactly where it is.
Quizzes and other events on special days like D-Day, Valentine's, and Christmas, raising money for local charities like Help Hedgehogs Prestatyn, seem to be a regular part of the Tudor's social calendar.
The Tudor's website tells me it is run by Paul and Ivor, who say: "We can't wait to welcome you, so join us at the top of the High Street as soon as you can, once you've been once, you'll be looking forward to your next visit. See you soon!"
Words like "unique" and terms like "hidden gem" are overused in reviews like these.
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But when applied to Tudor House they perfectly describe the venue.
The decor is as eclectic as any I've seen, as if several personalities are fighting to put their stamp on the space.
The fish tank at Tudor House (Image: Matt Warner) There is a giant fish tank that wouldn't look out of place in an aquarium, a baby grand white piano on a raised stage, the aforementioned exotic birds on the door, and a mini-library.
Fancy a read? (Image: Matt Warner)I can say with confidence that there is no place quite like it.
The baby grand at Tudor House (Image: Matt Warner)I ordered the sausage and mash.
Bangers and mash at Tudor House (Image: Matt Warner)While the dish wasn't as flamboyant as the surroundings by any meal, it was a hearty plate of food, the type of comforting grub my nan would make.
And that is high praise indeed as some of my most fondly remembered meals were eaten from my lap while watching Blockbusters.
The sausages were girthy and well-cooked, the mash buttery, and there was plenty of both.
Could it have had more gravy? For me, always, but the mash was smooth enough that it didn't need additional lubrication.
I didn't go for dessert, but could see a range of ice creams and homemade desserts were no offer that I will be sure to sample next time I visit.
Tudor House has a Tripadvisor rating of 4 based on 168 reviews.
"Lovely place brilliant food excellent value. Can't fault it friendly staff good service. Well worth a visit any time of day breakfast or lunch. Afternoon teas good too."
"Fabulous place, good food, very friendly staff, great coffee. For a 'drop in coffee' or planned meal, it's great. Never had a bad experience at the Tudor Well done."
"We have visited the Tudor House multiple times, and it never disappoints! There is a wide selection of foods and beverages with consistant excellent quality."