IT’S probably an age thing but there’s a few places in Weymouth town centre which double as eateries and night spots which I’d frequent in daylight hours but wouldn’t be my thing in the evening.

Yates’s is one of these. I don’t think for a minute there’s any creative magic going on in the kitchen but the food is good and there’s plenty of meal deals making it easy on the wallet.

It’s worth noting that Yates’s is family friendly, which can be a bonus, but doesn’t bode well if you’re after a quiet meal.

It’s a lively place, with screens flashing adverts reminding you where you are.

I had my doubts when seeing plates piling up on tables and just one member of staff behind the bar.

This was quickly rectified, however, and it struck me how remarkably well this member of staff coped.

She was aided at one point by someone from the kitchen who cleared tables.

This staff shortage may have attributed to the fact that a spillage near our table wasn’t mopped up – although a cone was placed nearby warning of the hazard.

The food went down well. The curry came as part of a deal which includes rice, naan bread, mango chutney, poppadom and drink.

The giant mixed grill was a bargain although the egg yolk wasn’t runny and we found it disappointing to be offered a sauce for the steak then be charged for it.

The vegetable enchilada was delicious, although perhaps a little too cheesy.

We left full and content.

Yates’s, 55-57 St Thomas Street, Weymouth, 01305 772913 or visit weareyates.co.uk