The Palomino, Connah’s Quay
Welcome to the frontier, the Wild West of Connah’s Quay. No, the Quay isn’t that wild – but there’s a taste of the Big Country at The Palomino.
Once it was the Wepre Inn, now it’s reborn as The Palomino. A Western themed bar and restaurant that’s decked out in all manner of cowboy paraphernalia. There are life size statues of cowboys and Indians (including a full size John Wayne on a horse); dreamcatchers and pictures on the wall; plus numerous models of Native Americans and what not all over the place.
I think it’s very cool. The very first time I went there, they even had Clint Eastwood classic Hang ‘Em High showing on several television screens around the room.
There’s an extensive menu that covers a wide range of steaks, burgers and hearty meals to fill up any gunslinger. There are of course salads and vegetarian options for the weirdos. Plenty of drink choices too, though sadly no Sam Adams or Brooklyn lager – they would’ve been more suitable. I tried Kozel, a Czech beer, which was very nice (though sadly not cold enough!).
On our most recent visit, Mrs Platinum Al opted for the Chicken Espetada. Never heard of this before; it’s pretty impressive. Two large chicken and veg kebabs hang vertically down from a metal support over the plate. Served with chips and salad, It looked great and the smell was enticing. Luckily I got to try some. I loved it, one to try next time.
For my own choice, I went for the full rack of ribs. A massive plate was served to me, with chips, salad, coleslaw and corn on the cob. The ribs were extremely tender and fell apart nicely, delicious sauce too. Despite the vast amount of food, I made a valiant attempt and finished nearly everything – leaving just the corn half eaten…
Speaking for myself, I really enjoy going to the Palomino. The food has always been good, with large portions and a good choice on offer.
Of course, what makes The Palomino unique is the decor. You can see from the photos here what the place is like. Unfortunately, I hear that the place is having a make over soon – so there’ll be no more Western memorabilia. This makes me very sad. Like a cowboy who’s had to shoot his lame horse.
I’m sure the food will continue to be great. It’s just a shame that such a fun, different venue won’t be the same. If you want to experience The Palomino as it is, better saddle up soon.
Food Quest Test
- Food: a wide range of American style food, plus trad favourites, and large portions. How about a Man vs Food style burger challenge?!
- Drink: good range of beers, American beer like Samuel Adams and Brooklyn Lager would be great though.
- Service: good, not perfect, but cheerful.
- Cost: good value for large portions.
The Palomino Bar & Restaurant, Wepre Lane, Connah’s Quay CH5 4JR
01244 811122
The Palomino website is here.
The Palomino Facebook page is here.
Platinum Al's Virtual Hot Tub 
Why are they removing the cool stuff?
Don’t know. I hope it won’t change, it would be good for a lad’s night out.
Noisy atmosphere, poor service, food incorrectly cooked with poor selection, crowded restaurant no inyerest in younger cusomers. If you consider this a good venue, on your head be it. For my own part I have been with a famiky group of of 10 people non of whome will visit it again
Hi Ron,
Thanks for the comment. I appreciate your opinion. I have to say that, personally, I have never experienced a bad meal at the Palomino. I wouldn’t say everything there was perfect, but I’ve always been happy with the experience.
That’s more than I can say about some of their competition. Go on, I’ll say it: The Running Hare. That place is a soulless dive flogging cheap, crap food and ridiculously over priced drinks.
Corporate hell hole that the Pubic – sorry, Running Hare is, I think the Palomino at least deserves a chance.
Otherwise, at this rate, the Running Hare is the only option we’ll have left.
Platinum Al.