Ma Simms Pie and Mash Shop, Bolton

So, the diet was going exceptionally well. Eating healthily with only one misdemeanour in the shape of a Tunnock's Caramel Wafer bar. That was until a chance encounter occurred this morning. My friend Emma and I were too late for a cup of tea in the staff canteen, so we went for a wander. It was then we saw it. A sandwich board which read 'Ma Simms Pie & Mash Shop'. Yes please! I nipped in to get a menu and a visit was arranged quick sharp.

Ma Simms is the brainchild of the people who brought us Mr Simms sweet shop, and is situated in a quiet spot in St Andrew's Court, opposite the Crompton Place.

The menu is simple. Pies, mash and other accompaniments. Pie choices include:

• Trotters Pork Pie, Apple , Cider and Stuffing
• Steak and Ale Pie
• Steak and Stilton Pie
• Chicken, Ham and Leek Pie
• Steak and Kidney Pie
• Chicken and Mushroom Pie
• Steak and Onion Pie
• Cheese, Potato and Onion Pie (v)
• Lamb Hot Pot Pie
• Steak and Potato Pie

I had to opt for local favourite, the Trotter Pork Pie. This came as part of a deal which included mash, mushy peas and gravy for a ridiculously cheap £3.95. My friends picked the Lamb Hot Pot Pie and the Steak and Kidney Pie.

Portion sizes are huge! All pies are home made by the people who own the shop, the pastry is crisp with a buttery texture and fillings are generous. The sides weren't bad either. The mash is smooth and buttery and the gravy is packed with flavour. There really is no-where else like it nearby that I can think of. 

We were all really impressed with the quality of the food for the price they were charging. Special merit was given for the pastry, the big chunks of meat in the pies and for serving dandelion and burdock.

Our only criticism was the length of time we had to wait. We were on our lunch break from work so only had an hour. We were told that they were busy when we arrived, but there were only two members of staff on to both cook and serve the food. One of our colleagues went later that day after we referred them, and was unable to get served within her lunch period for a take away. However, I think some of this was also down to the fact they take telephone orders for both takeaway and to eat in. I'll be doing this next time!

The food itself is fantastic value and very tasty. It reminded us of the good old days when the Hen and Chicks' pie was a force to be reckoned with. I'm sure the issues with service are just teething problems, and this will ease as the staff get used to the flow of customers and the equipment they are working with.

A very enjoyable lunch, followed by one of the worst PLLs* we have experienced. Ever. Food is very reasonably priced and the staff were friendly. We liked it here and will definitely be going back.


*Post Lunch Lull - a very technical term used by professional people...