Frankly, I can't believe that i'm the first person to write a review for this place. A chinese…read morerestaurant called Mayfair has existed on this site for many years, and was the first chinese that my mother visited back in the 60s, and I have been visiting it for at least 20 years. In this age of all-you-can-eat chinese buffets, Mayfair makes a refreshing change (because it isn't one, as most new Nottingham chinese restaurants seem to be).
Firstly, the decor is no-frills. Clean and simple. The place has a very informal atmosphere. They are not licensed, so you can take your own alcohol, which automatically makes for a cheaper bill. There are plenty of off-licenses nearby, so this system works fine.
The menu is fairly standard chinese fodder, with a few unusual dishes thrown in for good measure. Occassionally there will also be an additional 'specials' menu, where new and more unusual dishes appear. The food is always good quality, and always arrives hot. Portions are generous, and Mike the manager is very helpful and friendly. I have recommended this place to many people, who have in turn recommended it to all and sundry.
Pricewise, Mayfair represents fantastic value. I often go with friends, and we all have a soup to start along with some other mixed starters to share (ribs etc), and then we all have a main course with rice or noodles. When the bill comes, it seldom works out at more than £11 per head. It gets very busy on Friday and Saturday night, so book ahead to avoid disappointment.
I love the friendly, informal, unpretentious nature of the place. Great to visit with friends, and they can cater for large groups if needed to. I probably would not recommend it if you fancy a romantic and intimate night out, or if you value decor above food and value. The only reason I can't bring myself to give this place 5 stars is because the speed of service can suffer somewhat at peak times, but for me it is always worth the wait. My recommendations? The king prawn and sweetcorn soup (although i've been told the hot and sour soup is exceptional), the salt and pepper spare ribs (dry, but spicy and delicious), and the squid in szechuan sauce.
If you live in Nottingham and love chinese food but haven't tried Mayfair, where have you been?!