Whillows, Hartford, Northwich

More of a wine bar/bistro type place really but it is ok to just have a drink, not all tables are set and they actually have three on handpump. Not mainstream stuff either, this inaugural visit had Wincle Wincle Waller, Mobberley Revelation and Merlin Brewery Dark Magic. Prices are higher than the local average but I suppose it's that kind of place. I ordered at the bar but was then asked where I intended to sit and my pint was brought to my table complete with a black napkin. There are two levels, the ground floor bar/restaurant and a gallery/mezzanine above. The ground floor has parquet flooring, tables of various sizes including high ones with stools, some exposed brickwork, bookcase wallpaper and otherwise lightly coloured walls and ceilings with windows on two sides and rooflights generating a bright and airy feel. A stand alone fireplace looks like it has a log burner, décor includes a bit of moody art, stacked period suitcases and shelves of whisky boxes. I didn't see a TV and I'd be surprised if there is one, a jazz type soundtrack played during my brief visit. A worthy addition to the local scene, certainly not traditional but a place to get a more unusual beer it seems, so up a mark for that. Very popular, I passed by several times while I was in the area and it seemed continually busy.

Official site of Chime - www.chimehartford.co.uk