MENTION Frankie and Benny's and it's magic to the ears of young children.

There's an almost hypnotic attraction to the chain restaurant which has now become a family favourite venue for birthdays and special occasions.

Our latest visit to the restaurant, located on Charon Way at Gemini 8 near the M62, was on a busy Friday evening but there is enough booth seating to ensure you never have to wait long.

There was a lively atmosphere and despite being our waitress's first night in the job, she went to great efforts to ensure all of her table guests were well looked after.

There are two extensive children's menus available, but it's always pepperoni pizza that is first choice for my two Michaelangelos.

I'm a fan of the £4.25/£7.75 children's menus, not least because they come with an activity book to keep lively little ones occupied for a good 15 minutes, but also because desserts and refillable soft drinks are included (as well as free apples for those wanting to boost their five a day quota). 

Adults options are admittedly pricer - I chose a satisfying baked alforno pasta dish - rigatoni chicken piccante (£11.45) while my hungry husband opted for the Brooklyn Beef burger topped with barbecue pulled beef (£13.45). Having started with New York potato dippers (£5.95) - sliced fried potato bites with bacon, cheese and BBQ sauce - we were almost too full for dessert, but the variety of sundaes on offer (£5.95) proved difficult to resist.

It may not be the cheapest place to eat in Warrington but as family friendly restaurants go it's always on our go-to list.

  •  Top tip: Subscribe to F&B rewards via their website and kids can eat free on Fridays