IT WAS with great excitement that my wife and I jumped into a taxi and headed off for a rare meal out together without our 21 month old little boy in tow.

Our destination was Joe Daflo’s opposite The Mayflower theatre – recently under new management.

Upon entering we were warmly greeted by the manager who asked us if we would like to have a drink first or go straight to our table, we opted for the latter.

We were shown to our table on the first floor – a great table for people watching as we could see the rest of the diners, the dance floor area and down into the bar area as well.

After ordering we sat with a nice glass of dry white wine soaking up the atmosphere and looking forward to our starters, and we weren’t disappointed.

We opted for the Camembert box to share. Delicious cheese melted, brushed with garlic and white wine, and served with French baguette and a red onion chutney – delicious.

Being foodies though, we couldn’t resist sampling the fish cakes as well.

Served with Italian leaves and a zesty lime chilli relish, they were a lovely light bite.

Needless to say there wasn’t a crumb left when the waitress cleared our plates.

For the main course we both decided it would be foolhardy not to have the fantastic-sounding rib-eye steaks. When they arrived we were very glad we did. The steaks were nice and thick, just how I like them, cooked to perfection and accompanied by a green peppercorn sauce, flat mushroom and sauteed garlic and rosemary potatoes, plus a side order of rustic chips and some green beans – just for good measure.

As we got stuck in it was very evident we’d both have no room left for dessert. We were very full and very satisfied. The portions were a generous size, the rib-eye was a lovely cut of meat and very tender and the green peppercorn sauce was subtle enough to not overpower the taste of the steak.

After finishing every last mouthful we sat back very content in pleasant surroundings knowing we’d had a fabulous meal and a very good bottle of wine from their extensive collection.

As well as the main menu Joe Daflo’s does a pre-theatre and lunchtime menu and has also just started a dinner and dance evening on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Joe Daflo’s, 61 Commercial Road, Southampton.

023 8023 1101 joedaflos.co.uk