The concept of all-you-can-eat Chinese restaurants is now commonplace in towns and cities everywhere, so it's refreshing to find a place that does the simple things well, while also offering the customer that little bit extra.
Sitting on the north edge of the city centre, Crown Buffet is somewhat off the beaten track, but don't let this deter you - the walk is more than worthwhile, if only to build up your appetite. The decor of this vast 200-cover site is modern and bright, and on arrival you are immediately greeted by the friendly waiting staff. This is not just another buffet restaurant, with the same miserable looking dishes staring forlornly up at you - this is '-la-carte quality food, served in the buffet concept, and it's a joy to eat.
All the usual suspects are here, but the jewel in the Crown's 'crown' however is the Mongolian buffet. Choose from a huge selection of fresh raw ingredients - think baby sweetcorn, Chinese mushrooms and water chestnuts - before selecting from a fresh selection of king prawns, beef, chicken, squid, salmon and pork. Present your selection to the waiting chef, who is standing over a steaming hot wok, choose your sauce, and the dish is cooked as you watch. This 'build your own' option is the highlight of the visit and brings the restaurant to life with exotic smells. The Crown has raised the bar for its competitors, and I'm sure this new kid on the block will be around for a long time - I for one am glad about it.