Hotel restaurants do not have the best reputation, but they can make for great pit-stops when you are in need of a quick and easy meal. Just take The Spot, which is found on the second floor of the Bristol City Centre outpost of affordable hotel chain Holiday Inn.
The dining room is a contemporary space which features floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of natural light and allow for panoramic views of the city, while guests can watch their meals being cooked in front of their very eyes thanks to an open kitchen.
The Spot is open for breakfast every day, kicking off at 6am on weekdays and 7am on the weekend. If you want to start your day with a breakfast of champions, order poached eggs or a stack of pancakes, while those who want a lighter start to the morning can instead choose porridge or a bowl of mixed fruit.
At lunchtime, the menu is all about the gourmet sandwiches and stacked burgers. All of the sandwiches are served inside toasted ciabatta alongside sea salted fries or thick-cut chips, and fillings include slow-cooked barbecued pulled pork or cajun chicken breast. If you’d prefer a burger for lunch, try the spicy lamb option or go meat-free with a patty made from kidney beans and mushrooms.
Come evening, The Spots menu kicks off with a range of globally-inspired starters; try king tempura prawns, chicken wings slicked with a Thai sweet chilli glaze or bruschetta topped with garlic and mushroom. There is a wide range of main courses to choose from as well, including pizzas and pasta dishes. If you are feeling carnivorous though, it will be hard to resist the tempting likes of half a rack or barbecued pork ribs, served alongside cajun chicken breast, sweet potato fries and red onion coleslaw.
There is a well thought out children’s menu too, while desserts that young and old alike will love include ice-cream sundaes and a cheese board.