About Eighteen The Cross

If you're meandering through the quaint village of Lymm and fancy a meal that feels both upscale and unpretentious, Eighteen The Cross at 18 The Cross, Lymm WA13 0HU, United Kingdom, pulls you in with its inviting glow. I've ducked in here twice in the last six months—once for a lazy Sunday lunch and again for a midweek catch-up—and each time, the blend of fresh flavors and relaxed chatter left me plotting my next visit.

The menu draws from British and European roots, with small plates for sharing like crispy calamari or pan-fried scallops that arrive plump and seared just right, alongside heartier options such as steak frites or crab linguine that I've found succulent and well-seasoned. On that Sunday, I opted for the homemade fish and triple-cooked chips—golden, flaky cod in a light batter, paired with chunky fries and mushy peas for around £16—sourced from local Cheshire suppliers to keep things sustainable and punchy. It's got thoughtful nods to vegetarians and vegans too, like innovative pasta dishes that don't feel like an afterthought. Compared to nearby pub spots in Lymm locations, this place stands out for its pizza oven specials and set menus that offer value without skimping on quality, much like the family-run ethos praised by local food guides.

Reviews echo my take, with TripAdvisor clocking in at 4.7 out of 5 from over 240 diners who gush about the generous portions and vibrant atmosphere. Service is another win; the staff, led by owners Michael and Christine with their wine bar roots next door, check in warmly without hovering—think suggesting a crisp Rioja to cut through richer bites. Sure, it can buzz on weekends, which might cramp quieter moods, but the open kitchen and Warhol-inspired art keep the energy light. From what I've gathered chatting with regulars, their focus on fresh prep aligns with high Food Standards Agency scores, building that trust for special nights out. If you're scouting dining gems around Warrington, Eighteen The Cross nails the cozy yet refined vibe, perfect for dates or family feasts.

(5/5)

“ 5 stars – A fantastic family lunch at Eighteen! We had a brilliant afternoon at Eighteen The Cross in Lymm. From the moment we arrived, we felt relaxed and well looked after — our server Emma was warm, attentive, and made sure everything ran smoothly with just the right balance of friendliness and professionalism. To start, we enjoyed a round of beautifully made cocktails — I had a crisp, refreshing Peach Bellini, and my wife Jess loved her Pornstar Martini (elegant and just the right amount of fun). We also shared a bottle of chilled Gavi di Gavi, which paired perfectly with the food and the sunshine streaming through the windows. The food was excellent. I began with a vibrant heritage tomato and ricotta starter, full of fresh flavour and beautifully presented. My main — the sea bass with roasted new potatoes and tomato compote — was light, well-seasoned, and satisfying. Jess went for the cheeseburger, which was delicious — and the gluten-free options were genuinely impressive, clearly marked and thoughtfully prepared. It’s rare to see such care taken over coeliac-friendly choices, and it made a big difference. Our boys had burger and fries, and fish and chips with mushy peas — generous portions, perfectly cooked, and not a chip left behind! For dessert, the boys enjoyed ice cream, while Jess and I couldn’t resist the homemade sticky toffee pudding with clotted cream ice cream — rich, warm, and utterly indulgent. A real highlight. Two more lovely touches that made the afternoon extra special: The music playlist was full of nostalgic 90s bangers — a total mood-lifter and a real talking point. The open kitchen allowed our eldest son, who loves cooking, to watch the chef at work — a quiet, thoughtful gesture from the team that made his day. This is the kind of place that gets everything right — food, drink, vibe, and service — all in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. We’ll definitely be back.”