I know many people don't like chain restaurants. Yes Ask is a chain. A delicious, fresh, affordable, fast service chain. I've seen quite a few of these places around Birmingham. My partner in crime had a few reward vouchers to redeem that were good for quite a few chains around Brum. But I nominated Ask.
We visited a large and easily accessible location on Hagley Road. It had a nice (and free) car park. As we walked toward the entrance I noticed a few picnic benches out front that would be lovely to sit out on a warm summers eve. Too bad summer is already over.
The dining area was a good size. We had no trouble getting seated. A server quickly greeted us and took our drink order. I always appreciate prompt service like that. The menu had a good variety of pizzas, pasta, and seafood. We decided to go for the antipasto board to share, a lobster prawn pasta dish for myself, and a fancy chicken pizza for my companion.
The cocktail menu was on the smaller size, but that didn't stop me from trying it! I had the delicious Italian Twinkle which was a refreshing mix of Prosecco, elderflower, vodka and lemon. And since I'm a glutton for these fruity drinks I had another round. This time Moscato D'Asti with raspberries. Both were wonderful, sweet, and fruity.
The antipasto starter was alright. It was a mixture of a few things. Not my ideal choice, but nice to try. The rosemary and sea salt bread that came with it was lovely. My main was excellent. There were large chunks of seafood in it. The pasta tasted very fresh. The croutons were a bit odd because they seemed a bit soggy. Overall a really great choice. I would definitely choose it again! I actually liked it so much I wanted seconds!!
Since there's no unlimited pasta at Ask, I had to get a dessert to fill me ;) I chose the grande gelato. It wasn't that pretty to look at, but what it lacked in looks it made up for in taste. It was a couple scoops of creamy vanilla gelato mixed with fresh berries, cream, and pieces of meringue. It reminded me of an of Eaton Mess, a better version though.
I had a great experience at Ask. Nothing but great food and friendly service. It wouldn't take much to persuade me to return again. read more