Laurel Inn in Staffordshire Moorlands

There’s a few different Chinese restaurants to use in the same town and we feel like we’ve found a gem here. Beautiful food, great quality and service with a smile. We had a set meal for 2 and each item of food was tasty and both my wife and I commented on how impressed we were. Will certainly be going back again.

Looked at the service times, said they close at 11pm, we asked for chips and chow mein at 10.30. We were told that they close at 10.30 and we were asked 'don't you have homes to go to?'. Extremely rude staff, particularly the red headed girl with glasses wiĺ not be visiting again. Shame, since previous owners were excellent.

I feel I have to write this review after having suffered two occasions of very poor service. I appreciate that we are in lockdown but surely this should make collection times easier to estimate as there are no restaurant diners and walk in customers? Both occasions were on a Saturday night and were telephone orders, first time I was given a one hour wait time, however on my arrival I had to wait a further 10 mins in the restaurant, trying to social distance from other customers and delivery drivers. On the next occasion, Saturday 9th Jan, on placing my order I was given a 50min collection time, I arrived on time and the young girl behind the counter informed me that it would be a further 20mins as they hadn't even started it yet! 20 mins later I returned and it was thankfully ready. On voicing my unhappiness over the wait and totally inaccurate collection time she was unable to give me a reason, when asked about calling back to let me know there would be a delay, apparently they don't record contact numbers, she said that they were very busy and it was stressful, maybe I should order after 8.30 as it was quieter then! I explained that as I live outside their delivery area it was a 15min journey to get to them. She wasn't apologetic in any way, offering no recompense, I'm afraid that as good as the food may be this was probably my last visit!

I order through foodhub and have never had a problem with the accuracy of the order like other people have suggested. I tend to order the egg fried rice, chow mein and curry sauce and its always spot on and it generally arrives from 15-30 minutes. Can't fault the place my only little gripe is they charge a £1.20 delivery charge whereas most takeaways in Leek do not charge.

I had the garlic chilli chicken and it was cold when it arrived the chicken was disgusting and there wasn't a taste of garlic or chilli at all! Would not recommend to anyone the rice was cold and tasted uncooked! Very poor

We had our annual get together and after a few drinks ended up in the Laurel which we have done for the past few years. It downsized a few years ago, probably due to high rents. Food good service OK and we will be going back there next year. Give it a try.

It is with a heavy heart that I write this review as on one occasion out of 4 the food was very good indeed. Late 2018 we ordered a takeaway of a selection of our favourite dishes satay chicken skewers, king prawn balls and crispy aromatic duck. This was after a long break from ordering from the laurel as we felt the food quality diminished somewhat after katya moved on. The optimism to reignite the love for our once favourite Chinese was soon extinguished with barely edible burnt offerings. Wanting to help the business owners succeed I made a phone call to feed this back and was advised to mention this next time I ordered which is what I did. This time these very same dishes were beautifully cooked and very tasty. Saturday 2nd March I order again as always via just eat, I include a note explaining that we enjoy the food only when not overcooked, the food order arrived incorrect and food was again burned. Phoned back immediately to give my feedback to be told they were busy on Saturday night and this wouldn’t happen again. Ok, let’s give the laurel one last chance, tonight the 5th March. This is by far the worst! Again ordered through just eat, to the same address and as usual with a note saying LIGHTLY COOKED! Haven’t bothered phoning this time, they won’t listen. Wasted £65 now. Good ingredients, bad cook.

Shall NOT be going back unless it has a major change, felt sorry for the visitors to the town who called in for a meal. It was a take away meal where you can sit in and be charged restaurant prices that's if you can get the poor waitress to stop answering the phone for take a ways. As its right opposite the premier Inn you would have thought they would get their act together.

Been coming here for a while and I honestly carnt understand all the bad reviews as I've never had an issue or problem yes there are teething probs in all newly refurbished restaurants but it seems they have now sorted all the forementioned comments. Food and drink is all of very good standard and service was spot on. They now have sorted a background music. And everything seems to be running a lot more smoother. Well done laurel inn keep up the good work we will return and see you all soon.

After being a customer for many year's. The place is going to the dogs. Service terrible owner totally ignored us I had to ask to get a drink after about 15 mins he reluctantly put down his phone. He poured a small warm can of larger in to a pint glass witch only 3/4 filled it. After eating the medeoka starters we waited a further 10 mins and had to ask again for the main course he reluctantly put down his phone to clear the table and bring out the rest of the meal . Stay clear

Recently refurbished now the restaurant area is very small. We were the only people in there on a Friday evening. Food very salty, and very expensive! No music, no atmosphere. Will not be going back there again.

We visited The Laurel, with a view to getting a takeaway meal for three of us. As the place was empty (should have rang warning signals, but it was early in the evening), we asked if we could eat in. We were shown to a table and provided with restaurant menus. All hungry, we were spoilt for choice with the extensive menu and we ordered. Two starters out of the three arrived, then we waited and asked what had happened to the third. Sorry, it was on its way, we were told. Then someone arrived out of the kitchen, to inform us that they had no lettuce for the lettuce wrapped pork starter. We said we would just await the mains, the other two guests having now finished their starter! The mains began to arrive. The green Thai curry arrived in what can only be described as grey looking dishwater sauce, literally grey in colour, thin and watery. It tasted vile and was returned to the kitchen. The chicken curry also ordered was covered in a thick, gloopy chip shop style sauce and the restaurant special, served with egg fried rice, was also extremely poor quality and nowhere near restaurant standard. The rice was overcooked and mushy, again a strange chicken stock cube colour. We will not be returning to The Laurel, which is sad. The food is absolutely appalling quality and, to be honest, if you cannot cook, then please do not fool the public by pretending you are a restaurant! The Laurel certainly is nowhere near one!

We’ve been many times over the years and every time we go it’s gradually getting worse. Can’t really fault the food, but the service can be shocking! Some of the young girls are fine and very friendly but the guy (hope it’s not the manager) who we spoke to on the phone today was just awful. He barely said anything and you couldn’t hear what he was saying and he never even bothered to say goodbye or thank you, just put the phone down. Very rude. Then when they forgot one of our meals that we had picked up they said they would not deliver it as only one driver, and we had to go back to get it. No wonder the place is always dead, even on a Friday night! Won’t be coming back again.

We have visited here on many occasions but the quality of food and service is getting worse. There were 6 of us booked for my wife's birthday and we had to have a table set for us after we arrived. The place was freezing and there was only 1 waiter which isn't good for a Friday evening. The food was ok but portions small and although you can order more - the waiter seemed always busy so didn't bother. Had to ask for glasses for beer as just bottles put on table and it took ages for him to take our drink orders - at least 15 mins after we sat down which is too long and we were ready to order food even before he had taken drink orders. Used to be good but really going downhill and I don't think we will be back

We were lucky enough to eat here on Christmas Eve. Outstanding food and service, will definitely return again and again. We chose several dushes to share accross tbe spectrum and every dish was perfect. Well done

We arrived for a birthday meal for my daughter. Table for 6. 4 adults & 2 children. Place was freezing cold and waiters were in coats. Shown to table but were not asked if we wanted a drink. So sweet & Sour chicken x 2 beef in black pepper sauce, chicken in ginger & spring onion and Szechuan chicken. Mixed hors d' oeuvres for starter all were ordered.Starters came and were good but only spring rolls were hot.

went for a family meal out food looked good till i found huge long hairs in food not very sympathetic at all , no offer of compensation they just basically shoved us out the door,will not go again !!

Chose this restaurant as we were staying in the Premier Inn opposite. Good buffet offerings, cheap and varied. A bit cold on a November night needs better heating. Would certainly recommend and re-visit

Good value food, but incredibly salty. Authentic Chinese furniture and decor.

We have just had an amazing buffet meal here!! Couldn’t fault any element of our evening!! Definitely recommend!!

Terrible service. No consistency. Messed up our order and admitted that it was due to lack of communication between the staff and chef and said there is nothing they could do about it. Not helpful at all. By the time we sorted It out our food went cold. Partner went out again as we speak to pick up the right order. Staff seem to not know what’s in their sauces either.

I've eaten in a couple of times and it's almost always empty but dishes take ages to come out. Service when you eat in is just weird, there is no other word for it. There are some clear issues between those who cook and those who serve. its a shame because the food has always been really good. I've heard full on arguments in the kitchen and drinks taking ages even though there are only 8 of you in a restaurant designed to take 50. I ordered out tonight from just eat and asked for no onions in the curry. it arrived 20 minutes later, fast but with about 30 pieces of onion with curry. Read the order people, I doubt I'll ever eat in again because it's like there is constant conflict and drama with the staff, but they are on a final warning with take out if they can't read the order properly. It doesn't matter how nice the food is, if the customer service is rubbish then I'm not interested.

My partner and I visited this restaurant at around 6.30 p.m. on October 13th. It was virtually empty as one would expect at this time of day and we were greeted promptly by a friendly and courteous waitress. Despite the optimism engendered by our welcome, our experience went downhill from then on. To summarise:

Excellent choice of food all freshly cooked and piping hot served by friendly staff.

Staying across the road at a local hotel, we were recommended to try the Laurel Inn. The food was well priced, well presented and cooked fresh. The restaurant lacked atmosphere and a little dated, but don't let that stop you giving it a go. Staff very attentive and polite.

After a day at Alton Towers, staying at the Premier Inn over the road, we were tired and hungry. We went for the buffet meal for 4. How absolutely delicious! The food was cooked to perfection and they looked after us well. Good service, lovely surroundings and good food. What more could you ask for. Family friendly too! Thank you. Great evening, will recommend.

Ordered a takeaway at 7.20pm. Was told it would be 45 minutes. After an hour we rang and were told it was on its way. After another 15 we were told it was still on its way. By 9pm we still had no food and were told the driver couldn't find the address and now he knew the address he was on his way. I told the person on the phone that if the food was cold I would be sending it back. At half past nine, still nothing. I rang to be told that in the last phone call I had asked for the order to be cancelled. But I was also told the driver was still on his way... I was told there was no one else I could talk to about my order or to voice a complaint. No management or owner. So after two hours I'm hungry, confused and really disappointed. I have been ordering from the Laurel Inn for years but I think they may have lost a customer today.

Ordered a take away through Just Eat arrived nearly 40 mins late. Rang just eat - useless. Rang the restaurant no help. Their reply it's because we are busy. The food was cold and in edible. What a total waste of money

Food was good, service fine. Would recommend. Although overall can't give it more than 3 stars, good for a quick meal out but not great.

My husband and I both love Chinese food so decided to visit here. Food was lovely and staff friendly. Would recommend if staying in Leek. Didn't try the buffet but looked as if there were plenty of choices.

Popped in for a family meal tonight. The staff were so lovely, incredibly kind and attentive-can't speak highly enough of them. The food was very fresh and delicious. We would definitely recommend it.

We went for an early evening meal and were very pleased with what we chose. Cantonese spare ribs to start which were very tasty and served in a delightful sauce, followed by pork in black bean sauce and chilli shredded beef. All very tasty!

Fantastic all you can eat buffet menu, food was spot on and the staff were great.Highly recommend the Laurel Inn to anyone and will defiantly be returning :)

We've come here for twenty years and it was our Go To place for Chinese food; particularly Set Menu B for the starters. We also felt no need to check TripAdvisor first! As we got outside we realised the fascia had changed but also the focus on All You Can Eat Buffet; which we hate, so we nearly didn't bother, except that I thought I would ask if we could still order off the menu, to which we were told yes, by the older gentleman, who was perfectly civil and polite. We always eat early (6:30pm) so the place is usually empty, which we have no problem with. No faults with staff or service but we guessed the ownership had changed and then the starters turned up. The price hadn't changed but the presentation and content were totally different. No satay sauce to dip anything in, just two satays instead of the usual four; preformed, two big nondescript spring rolls, two large Prawn Toast, two chicken drumstick things, a couple of spare ribs with no sauce or garnish and a tiny amount of deep fried cabbage. I suspected it was the same chef, as the tiny amount of satay sauce tasted the same (it's impossible to replicate after years of trying!) but the emphasis was definitely on cheaper ingredients and larger versions of the cheaper stuff like Prawn Toast and the Spring Rolls. So disappointing! I had asked for a menu change from Chicken in OK Sauce (what *is* that, anyway?!) to the Sweet and Sour that had usually been included... my other favourite, which again had been graciously offered, but although the Beef in Black Bean Sauce looked appetising when it arrived, the Sweet and Sour was unrecognisable with no visible differentiation between the meat or pineapple and again, not much sauce. The duck had replaced a Prawn dish and had the tiniest amounts of flabby-skinned duck, obviously leftover from the duck used for pancakes, and a large amount of carrot to bulk it up... another cost saver I imagine... with probably no more than ten dry cashews thrown on after, instead of being incorporated in the dish. Past being disappointed and a bit gutted, to be honest, by now! The final nail in the coffin was the restaurant's inability to supply my all time favourite Irish Coffee in Leek - or pretty much anywhere in the world actually! - due to lack of double cream! We paid and left, never to return, I'm afraid, despite the lovely lady waitress who confirmed the previous owner retired in February and urged us to try the buffet next time. We wish the new owners well but I'm afraid it's not for us. (£48 including four bottled beers)

Have been a customer of the laurel for years and recently food has been a little overdone! had satay chicken, king prawn chilli and salt and lemon chicken for takeaway this evening. Asked for it to be lightly cooked as last few have been over. I'm afraid to say this was the worst!! Food seems to have been fried multiple times as it was all overcooked, king prawns like bullets and chicken like shoe leather!! I feel bad to write this review as this restaurant and takeaway were once great. Will try once more before seeking another local Chinese.

I rarely write reviews. only when exceptional or terrible. This was exceptional. I like a crispy duck course. The waiter gave us a weekend menu £13.50 which had a crispy duck middle course. everything was as should be for a fresh and skilled cooked feast.

New people taking over so we decided to try the buffet. The pace was almost empty but the guy on the bar said after thinking about it he could fit us in !!. Not clear how to order as dishes are delivered to the table. The first course of mixed starters not the best but OK, then the Duck and pancakes well the duck was crisp and solid must have been cooked 3-4 times we think. The main course came not too bad have had better but it was better than the duck. The whole meal out was spoilt by the staff not a smile or a greeting from any of them all were more interested in playing on their phones and eating lollipops. On visiting the bathrooms no light in the hallway only on the stairs and the upstairs area was in need of a clean. We will not be going back.

Been having takeaway for the last 5 years approx. many Saturdays and food was always waiting for you with a smile from the staff. Since the new owner has taken over, the food is cooked when you arrive to collect so you are waiting another 20 mins and elderly member of staff who takes the orders is ignorant and miserable and should not be dealing with the public. When food is late there is no apology or discount offered. will not be going again. Will look for a a restaurant who appreciates our custom.

31st birthday party booked , 14 of us we had the buffet at £10 per head 5 quid under 12, we ordered our food waited a long time for it then they tried getting us order mains without some of us not having a starter . The soup was very salty had to be left, the BBQ chicken wings had no chicken on just bone, the main courses adverage , if your a big party don't book they cannot cope with it even thou booked days in advance. Ran out of beer. 170 quid bill overall . A bit rude overall when went to pay the bill .

we have been here a few times - but not sure if new owners/managers - as we hadnt seen the buffet here before - however - Excellent value buffet (all cooked freshly and served to your table) here - lovely Chinese food - all cooked to order - with very good service.

I visited here with friends one Saturday evening to try the new all-you-can-eat menu that seemed to be raved about. The waiting on staff were superb, very friendly and quick to take orders. You order any items off the menu and it's brought to you. You can order anything as many times as you want! Food was hot and delicious and at £14 pp it was great value. Will be returning!

My partner and I visited the restaurant and the food was okay, however to say I have been poorly since would be an understatement. Which is a shame as I enjoyed our meal at the time but I haven't been right since. We had to ask for bowls to eat from and the set menu means we were limited with our choice. I don't think we will be returning.

Visited with a group of 12 & a baby Given choices of the buffet or usual menu, however everyone had to have one or the other, we couldnt choose Picked the buffet as we thought it would be easier for staff Advised we couldnt order more than 9 dishes at a time, even tho there were 13 of us Picked starters but then advisrd by the owner we must have the mixed starter as we were a large group ( no choice then) Soup next or duck no complaints Mains had to be shared due to the ordering policy so some felt they didnt get much and we could reorder once we had eaten these but nobody wanted to eat alone or make a fuss Other negatives Place was very cold and with a bavy i asked for a heater but it still made no difference and this wad moved the second we finished our mainToilets freezing No baby change facilities Positives Staff serving us all lovely Thet steamed some veg for the babyWe were sat on a long table so as a group couldnt interact with each otherAll in all i feel this place has deteiorated from the usual lovely resturaunt it was

Went last night for a family birthday, the young girl who served us was lovely and helpul but the older man who I assume was in charge was totally vile, he was unpleasant and actually rude.The service was slow, the food was OKWill not be going again !!

Visited with my partner for an evening meal. Food was excellent, loved to buffet menu. Staff very friendly. Don't let bad reviews put you off!

Visited on 16th Feb to find there was only a limited set menu available. No veggie or fish options. However on request they did do us a selection of veggie plates which were all tasty enough. Plenty of food, all very tasty and hot. Service was quick, friendly. We were the only ones in the restaurant which made it a little odd.

12 of us went for a joint birthday meal, it was ok initially, starters were good, then it all went wrong, 7 people's 2nd course starters didn't arrive.... mains started to come out....then we were told our starter would come with the main meals, we were then told as we were eating our mains that 3 meals weren't available!!!!! No apology, then he delivered cold crispy duck that was supposed to be for 7 but barely enough for 3 people. We waited an age for drinks, whilst we were there another table left who had been there before us and they hadn't even had their mains yet. The discount offered on the bill was ridiculous, but we didn't want to cause a scene. The restaurant itself is dirty, requires updating, mouldy walls etc Not a pleasant way to celebrate your birthday

I attended this restaurant on a works do in JanuaryOn the plus side, you can take your own drink so if you want to make the night a bit cheaper you can, think there's a corkage charge but if you are big drinkers this will easily pay for itself.The starters came pretty quickly after ordering which was great and I went for the crab and sweetcorn soup which was pretty standard, however, it took a good while for the mains to come meaning I had to snack on copious amounts of prawn crackers to stave away the hunger. The crispy beef finally came after asking the waitress a few times. The crispy beef and salt and pepper chips were ok but nothing worth rushing back for.The decor is a little bit dated too, could maybe do with a refurb and a rethink on the dated menu

I went tonight for a birthday celebration with family, we got there at 7.30, there were just 3 other tables but our meal didn't arrive until 9 p.m. Everytime we asked where our food was we were told it was just being finished, when it finally arrived we still had one meal missing and my granddaughter had to wait another 10 minutes for hers to be served. When we asked for the bill we complained about the service and they admitted it wasn't good enough and knocked £6 off the bill but no explanation for the extremely slow service. Needless to say we will not be going back!!

Saturday night treat... went to Laurel Inn. Tried out the 'All you could eat' menu and couldn't fault it. Sometimes a wait between courses, as quite busy, so was fresh and hot when arrived which was good. Excellent portion size too. Overall a good experience and will definitely go back when I want a Chinese!

Saturday is family treat night and we all decided It was time for a Chinese. We usually use China Town in Leek but decided to give the Laurel Inn a try. We ordered the food to be told the delivery time was 45minutes. This is totally understandable as it is a Saturday night and will be very busy. However, after waiting for an hour and a half for the food to arrive, I rang the restaurant to be told the food was still not out of the kitchen. He said it will be with the driver in the next few minutes... 30 minutes later we still have no food. I decided to ring back the restaurant to be told the food was with the driver and they will arrive any minute. Another 20 minutes and still NO FOOD! I rang and cancelled the order feeling very hungry and disappointed. Awful customer service, lack of honesty and no apology from the man on the phone.

Just had a spicy beef. ..it was sooooooo good. Used the Wan Tan to clean up the plate til the last drop off blackbean sauce. Delicious! !!!Staff is friendly, pricing is in the ok range. Worth a visit.

Excellent food and service every time. Good for families or a nice romantic meal out. They also offer take out and delivery service.

The food here is excellent, great choice on the menu , quality ingredients and good size portions ohh and served pipping hot! The service we experienced as a family was excellent too.The only downside for me was it was a little cool in the restaurant and cold upstairs, but overall highly recommended - you will not be disappointed!

Went on a aaturday night as every other place in town booked up, only a couple of tables occupied all Eve which says it all.Food good, service bad although very friendly....Asked for bottle of wine, it was put on table unopened, no glasses, asked for glasses and given a couple and told if wanted anymore to get them off next table. Decor very dated.Albeit lovely evening as we were with great company....

Never had a Chinese meal like it before. Beautifully fresh, good quality ingredients. Nice welcome and served with a smile. And on top of that it was very reasonably priced. Worth going back to Leek for!!

Absolutely fantastic. Great food - lots of it! Beautiful cooked. Lovely atmosphere. Highly recommend it.

Don't be put off by the exterior, very nice inside and the food is first class, especially the crispy duck. Service to match and great value.

What a lovely surprise to find such a good and friendly restaurant in such a small town.The husband and wife team have been there 15 years .He was originally a Hong Kong chef apparently there is a difference to mainland Chinese.The food was really delicious.

We went for a chill out meal and apart from waiting for ages to order all was good Starters were amazing ,hot tasty and wowMain course OH ?? It was a bit like are we in the same place couldn't wait to leave We were gutted as our platter prawns and won tons were fab

The fact that this is the only Chinese restaurant in Leek makes no odds.We are veterans of Manchester and London China towns, and this establishment compares favorably to most restaurants at either of the mentioned cities. We nearly always use the Laurel Inn for take aways and have been to the restaurant on several occasions.

We came here for a family meal one weekday night. We were the first to arrive and were seated in the window of a very traditionally decorated restaurant. The menu is extensive but we already decided to enjoy a set meal, so chose set meal D (£23pp). The food was very good, we particularly enjoyed the starter platter (great selection) and the duck pancakes. The main courses for me, were a bit too similar in flavours to each other with the exception of the beef which wasn't my first choice, but overall good. Two little niggles, no straws available for our little girl's drink, also, when we asked for more pancakes for the duck course, we were told that we could only order these in batches of 6, so it was 6 or nothing, so we declined. Waitress was very friendly and service was attentive, although a drink order was forgotten, but rectified quickly. All in all a good meal, we paid £55 for two adults and a child. Glad we tried it, but would probably go back to our usual Chinese restaurant next time.

Me and my husband had one of the set meals there was more than enough food and great value for money we will be coming again.

It was the best. The first night we got there late and they did a take away for us and it was out if of this world. Ans so cheap. The staff were really nice. The next night we had told the family and we all enjoyed the food. Thank you.x

Despite not being overly busy and having 6 members of waiting staff on, it took forever for them to take our order. The starters we had were lovely but again it took forever to clear our plates, we ordered more drinks but they didn't arrive. My husbands curry and rice arrived but not my meal, although we did want to share so that didn't happen. We heard the waitress shout into the kitchen that they had forgotten my meal but didn't come over to apologise. As my husband had finished his meal and still mine hadn't arrived nor had the drinks we ordered, we got up to leave, just as my food was arriving. I declined the food, paid for the drinks and left. To say I was disappointed is an understatement as it was valentines and we don't get child free evenings very often. The food was good, the service was terrible. A waitress should attend to a the same table from start to finish, it is not good practice for different staff to cover the same table as mistakes are made as clearly my experience shows.

Always been over the moon with this place. Been for hen parties, as an end of week treat etc etc. however, our past couple of visits have been interesting. Previously the food has always been spot on... yet recently seems to have declined. the service despite being attentive seemed somewhat unorganized and we may now unfortunately reconsider when thinking of Chinese restaurants in town.

We visited last night for a friends birthday. Really impressed with all aspects. Service was very good. Order was correct and we didn't have to wait around for food or drinks. Food was served quickly and was to a very high standard. The quality was great and the quantity was more than enough for the biggest appetites. Very quiet for a Saturday night which was a pity as I'd have no hesitation in recommending it. Value was great as well.

Good quality Chinese food. Waitress was very nervous but friendly all the same. We would definitely come back again. Only criticism was the fact that there was no salt or pepper available and we were left waiting for the bill for a long time.

Took the Mrs here for our tea out and it was the the best Chinese we have ever had and that's no joke crispy chilli beef was amazing along with the sweet and sour hong Kong style 100% going back there soon 10 out of 10 keep it up.

Very busy for a weekday night is always a good omen.The food is of good quality and reasonably priced, recommend if you fancy a Chinese in Leek.Staff also very friendly!

The food here is very good and served hot. The staff are extremely friendly and very helpful. Good central location.

Most helpful and friendly staff. An excellent menu . Sensible pricesour meal was delicious. We enjoyed our evening at the Laurel

A nice looking restaurant with a promising menu. Unfortunately, the food is very run-of-the-mill. Not actually awful, but no better than your average "corner shop" Chinese.

We were here in May and I said then how much we had enjoyed eating in this restaurant. Well, today even better. The welcome was was warm. The decor comfortable and well cared for. The service excellent. Again I relied on the waitress to guide me and as she spoke reasonable English she was most helpful. The food was some of the best we have tasted and the portions more than adequate. We came away feeling well fed but comfortable and the total bill was very reasonableYes, this will be a place to revisit on our next visit to Leek.

We frequently have a delivered take-away from here and they are usually excellent.When seven of us visited for a sit down meal (table previously booked) the meals were awful, one was actually cold as from the frige. The quality of the others were not up to expectations and the staff seemed to be at a loss.

When we visited the restaurant,the helpfulness of the staff stood out instantly.if there was a slight fault,it was that the staff seemed to be very young and inexperienced. But to be fair to them they stuck at the task and delivered the food with promptness and as good as they could.with regard to the food l really could not fault it,it was hot ,tasted excellent and l left feeling well pleased with what we had eaten,and at a reasonable price to.

It is a long time since we visited a Chinese because allergic to mushrooms and could never be sure of staff understood me.Here it was quite different with a very helpful English girl who understood the menu and gave one confidence that she would ensure that our wishes were met. We enjoyed a lovely meal and this charming waitress went out of her way with a level of service which is far too rare these days. We will go back next time we are in Leek.

Visited with our kids. This was our first visit to Leek and we were looking for a Chinese restaurant. We came across this by accident. The place is very nice and the staff were very friendly. The food was very good and reasonable value. The only downside was no WiFi.

We had a lovely meal from the set menu and enjoyed every last bite. The staff were very friendly even though it was a busy saturday night and we hadn't booked they let us in and made us welcome. Would highly recommend this restaurant as one of the best in Leek.

Firstly I don't often write reviews for anything however as a regular customer of Laurel Inn, I feel that after my meal there on Valentine's day I have to say something especially after the comment posted below by the "reviewer 500ian". For my part, our dinner was at the high standard that I usually expect- hence it was a safe option for my partner and I for Valentine's day. The restaurant was packed which I would have expected. Overall, our meals were delicious and the staff that we have seen a few times were just as efficient and friendly as any other night that we've been in.What I must say now is with regards to the post by "500ian" and I hope that people will take note of this post before reading his. That night, the table next to us had placed their order and received their starters. Whilst they were about to finish their starters they suddenly decided to order a crispy duck instead of their main course. Their starters were collected and not long after they placed their new order of a crispy duck, a main course came out to them. That night the restaurant was completely packed and it was quite frankly inconsiderate to suddenly place a new order just as they were finishing their starters and the kitchen was most likely preparing their mains. Anyways, the waiter took the main course dish away and came back with pancakes, and vegetables for their duck. The duck soon arrived and whilst they were eating, both my partner and I heard them loudly complain and talk about bargaining for a discount or some sort of free meal- we were sat at the table in front of them. They then went on to complain to a waitress who eventually asked them to speak to the manageress. She checked on the machine (which printed orders) the time that they ordered their duck. As far as I could see there really was nothing they could complain about, they had their starters and were making their way through their crispy duck. Some tables sat in that same room complained to that table to please be quiet and asked what was going on. Luckily the manageress could point out by showing us all their order time that they were clearly finding excuses for a free meal/discount.This was completely unacceptable behaviour and she promptly asked them to leave the restaurant without even needing to pay for their starters and crispy duck. It was quite clear that they were causing a disturbance in the otherwise pleasant atmosphere of the restaurant and most likely had failed to get away with some disgusting behaviour. I write this post because I wish I had spoken up that night, just like another man who was also sat next to that table had spoken up. Many couples that night also felt that that table were extremely unacceptable and unreasonable people. I cannot believe that having got away, without paying for starter and their crispy duck that he/she would still come back here and write such a spiteful, rude and dishonest review.The service at Laurel Inn is of a very high quality, I believe they have been here in Leek for over 10 years now. The staff that work here are all highly educated and reasonable people. Each time we visit it is always as pleasant if not more enjoyable than the last. I hope that people will ignore the comment posted by “500ian”.

shocking service, took 20 mins for anyone to even acknowledge the fact that we were there and take drink orders. The starters arrived and in fairness they were good. what followed was nothing short of amateurish service and attitude. our main meals arrived before the duck came out and when they realised there mistake it then took around another 20 minutes for this to be corrected. when it finally arrived it can out in 3 stages spread out over 15 minutes! The waitress then took the sweet and sour sauce away which we had asked to keep for the duck and this took a further 10 minutes to appear. It was at this point when the lady incharge came over waving a reciept around trying to tell us we hadnt ordered until 8.38! what she couldnt quite get in to her head that time wasnt a major problem as long as they could do the simple thing of bringing the 3 courses out in order and bringing things out together, relevant to the course we were eating. Unfortunatly we didn't stay long enough to try the duck or main meal, and we walked out a full hour and a half after our booking and still only recieved 1 course in full! I think i may still of been waiting now if we hadnt of gone!just a quick message to the couple sat behind us who were exceptionally rude throughout all of this, try keep your nose out of other peoples business, it had nothing to do with you and i dont recall asking you for your opinion. we were not as you put it "trying to pull a fast one" Our bill would have £80-100 at the end of the night and i would have rather of paid that than be writing this now, very hungry!

Service was slow and the prawn crackers didn't have prawns in them. The diet coke was full fat Pepsi which was dissapointing! The seating area was also very crowded!

It never seems to be over busy in here, which I can never understand as the food has been excellent on every occasion I go in. The staff can never do enough for you, the food is always nice and you are never waiting long. All the things that matter in my book! It is a must to have their crispy duck, which is divine! We usually just go for the banquet which includes that, and we are never disappointed. I cannot recommend this place enough.

Absolutely fabulous food.Crispy duck pancakes were gorgeous.Duck kung po was amazing. So fresh and fragrant. Looked colourful with a mix of red and green peppers. Crunchy cashew nuts and red chilli slices. Tender duck pieces. Id have preferred the fat (skin) to have been removed but will ask next time.Fluffy rice. Ample amounts for sharing and lovely prawn crackers.Friendly joyous staff. Clean surroundings. Excellent value.Even do a takeaway menu which iv tried since. Same standard in the comfort of your own home and they deliver!

The Laurel Inn was brilliant when I visited. Myself and my guest enjoyed delicious food and wonderful service. I look forward to returning.

We enjoyed our takeaway from here. It is a restaurant too. Found right in the centre of Leek. Good service.

being there few days ago, the food quality was very good. the lady waitress were really nice and we had a lovely cheat as well. i'll probably come back very soon!

We went here for a party of 10 and couldn't decide on what to have so went for a set meal. Very glad we made that decision; we were definitely well fed. First course was a shared dish of mixed Hor D'oeuvres which essentially is a mixed of my favourite starters. the prawn toast and chicken skewers are the best one's I've tried when on holiday. then, we had the crispy duck. Some of my friends complimented on how well the duck tasted and there was just the right balance of meat and the crispy bits. then the main course, our 3rd course, included special fried rice, dishes with chicken and king prawn. one of our friends, who doesn't venture much into chinese food, was particularly impressed with the sizzling fillet steak in a red sauce.Overall, brilliant food, lovely and warm staff. Thanks again Laurel inn.

We went to So Thai but was left waiting on the sofa by the bar for 15 minutes and the place wasn't even full so we walked out an in to the Laurel Inn. It doesn't look very nice from the outside but inside was lovely. Great décor and the lady that served us was warm, inviting and very friendly. We couldn't decide on what to have so went for the set meal and I was pleasantly surprised. the meal was lovely and not a bad price...considering we were in there and eating for nearly 2 hours!

We had planned to go to So Thai(read my reviews)but it was full so headed to Laurel Inn across the road.Service good but alas the food was disappointing, the chicken Satay in edible and the aromatic crispy duck tasteless and over crooked.Don't like giving negative reviews but won't be returning to Laurel Inn!Sorry

We went here as a group for a friends birthday. The service was good and the waitresses were helpful, but they did get a bit muddled with what everyone seemed to want being a large table. The food wasnt brilliant. I have certainly had better chinese at less money, and i thought it was a bit pricey for what you got. The portions were large though and 1 main could serve 2 people easily! It is a lovely little place, and the birthday girl even got a gift, these touches are lovely, but I think there could be improvements to be made on other areas.

We stayed at the Newley opened Premier Inn across the road for a few nights and we thought we would introduce our 10 year old to his first Chinese food experience. Being disabled the staff were very kind and accommodating offering to help me in and out of the premises as they have no wheelchair access.The food in our opinion was first class and probably the best Chinese food we have ever eaten. The lady serving us was very friendly and the dishes were all hot and cooked to perfection. We asked if we could take a set of chopsticks as a memento for our son and the lady very kindly gave us a special presentation case with metal ones and a small fork and spoon. This was lovely and the whole dining experience was made more special by this. Thank you.

Just been to Laurel Inn Chinese restaurant, celebrating our wedding anniversary , what can I say it was amazing the food was delicious, we ordered a set meal for 2, and you could easily feed four people. the quality of the food and service are tops.would come again and recommend

Hadn't eaten here for ages but I don't know why-all eight in our party thoroughly enjoyed the meal. Knowing we had a birthday, banners were up. Service was prompt and friendly. We had set meals which could easily have fed another four. Slight lack of atmosphere as the restaurant was quiet-they do a good trade in take-aways. Toilet facilities good.

Went here with friends for a meal and although we had to wait quite a while, when the food finally arrived it was without fault.The young waitress who served us had only started working a few days before and she was very nervous.I felt really sorry for her as the restaurant became really busy and it seemed under staffed.I would go back again maybe not on a weekend .We really enjoyed the food so that made up for the wait.

I have dined and had takeaways from here since it opened, I feel it has declined in recent years,I was always a big fan but now we only order the mixed hot Hor D'oeuvres for delivery & go to The Chinese gourmet for any main meals, a shame

Enjoyed a nice meal here one Saturday night with family. Curry was nice & rice, but they didnt listen to my husbands order when he clearly stated beef in oyster sauce without chilli, they brought it with chilli. bit dissapointed. not the best chinese meal ive had but the only resturaunt in leek so nice enough for a meal.

Super restaurant, very well managed, always have a good meal. This is our regular take away, and apart from occasionally forgetting the hoisin sauce for the crispy duck, we can't fault it! Also offers a reliable delivery service.

We are not natives of Leek and searched for a recommendation. What a find. I have eaten Chinese food all over the world and this compares with the very best. Highly recommended. The only issue? The coffee, easily done of the worst I have had.

What a great night! Greeted by lovely staff upon entry who tended to our every need. A wide range of food available for both dining and take-a-way. The food was full of flavour in every dish we ordered, which included Hot ho'r deourves Chicken and chili oyster sauce, Beef Cantonese style, Singapore chowmein and egg fried rice. It was all absolutely beautiful! As well as that it was all available for a very reasonable price! I will definitely be returning!