Trying to escape the rain on a Tuesday morning, I found myself in the beautifully wallpapered foyer of the Cosy Club. The first question I ask myself is where this place has been all my life.
The floor and ceiling have seen better days, but perhaps one could consider it adds charm to this post-colonial themed haven in the heart of Coventry. A comparatively young chain of restaurants/bars, with only 22 locations around the country, this chain was started by three enterprising young men around 10 years ago. Since then growth has been astounding, The Cosy Club intend to open 6 more UK stores by August of this year.
The waiters are exquisitely dressed, each with their own take on the traditional bartender style – low cut waistcoat; rolled up sleeves; slightly too short jeans with colourful socks. They contribute to the cosy, would you believe, atmosphere of this restaurant. Now, I happened to be here on a Tuesday so I took full advantage of their Tapas Tuesday offer: three plates of tapas and a house wine for £12.95. The portions were modest in size but nonetheless astoundingly delicious.
In the end I chose the honey glazed pigs in blankets; pulled chicken and chorizo and pork & beef meatballs. Pigs in blankets are always a religious experience. This feeling of pure unequalled ecstasy is something vegans will never understand and, in this reviewer’s opinion, the reason why the majority of them look frequently upset.
What a splendid coincidence that Cosy Club happens to have the same initials as my own name. At the risk of sounding conceited, I was pleased to have the impression of having a monogrammed napkin.
The meatballs were succulent and covered in a delicious red wine and tomato sauce. They paired well with the soft ciabatta bread.
I was slightly disappointed by the final of the three dishes. The potatoes were not as crispy as described in the menu and I found it lacked salt. The problem with these kinds of dishes is that one cannot overdo the portions. Punters find themselves too stuffed for dessert. So in removing the potatoes from their dish, the Cosy Club would be saving money on potatoes and making money on their desserts. Just a suggestion.
Overall, my experience at the Cosy Club Coventry was superb. The waiters enjoy their work, this is demonstrated by the exceptional service. When one speaks to them, they do not look around to see if other customers are looking frustrated, they are engaged and focused on you. Many coffee bars could learn a thing or two about customer service from them.
I suggest this grand old place to those in the mood for something upmarket and classy in the centre of Coventry.
On a side note, their espresso is top shelf.
Rah! Rah! Rah!