During half term I had to take my car for the dreaded MOT whilst I had my two boys, 5 and 3, with me. The mechanic said it would take about an hour so we took a walk into Chester in hunt for Hanky Panky Chester, a pancake house that had been recommended by friends. It took us a while to find it as it’s off the main road hidden away down a quiet little street behind the hustle and bustle of the main city centre.
It’s a quirky little place with all the waitresses wearing black dresses and colourful head scarves. A real step back in time with everything seeming to fit together perfectly to create a brilliant buzz and wonderful atmosphere.
What to eat at Hanky Panky Chester
We were given a menu and had it explained to us. Basically they serve pancakes with pretty much anything you can think of, savoury, sweet, plain or piled high the choice is yours. You can choose traditional thin pancakes or big fat American style ones loaded with toppings and ice cream.
With two boys in tow there was no other option than the American style ones piled high with toffee ice cream, fudge pieces and caramel sauce – sugar overload on a plate. Luckily, I decided we could share a stack between us and I am glad I did as the portions are large but my goodness, they are also delicious, and I could have easily got carried away and eaten the lot myself.
What to drink at Hanky Panky Chester
The drinks menu is like you would expect to find in any café with the exception of the create your own milkshake where you choose an ice cream flavour, a topping and a sauce and they mix it all together to produce an unbelievably delicious milkshake. Again, I let the boys choose between themselves so we ended up with strawberry ice cream, chocolate chunks and chocolate sauce and I must admit it was delicious. Again the portion size is large so maybe share (or not, your choice).
I have never before been to a pancake house but I will definitely be going back. In fact I am already planning for what occasion I can make the excuse to go, who I can take, and what I will order.
Another bonus is they do gift vouchers, when I first saw this on the wall I thought it was a ridiculous idea but after eating a two-stack pancake and a milkshake for £10 I think this would make an awesome Christmas gift for that awkward friend or relative that has everything. I know I would be happy with a hanky panky voucher that’s for sure.
Overall Review of Hanky Panky Chester
Overall Hanky Panky exceeded my expectations. The pancakes and the milkshakes were delicious and the ambiance makes the whole experience feel fun and exciting. The prices are average to higher end, perfect for a treat but not necessarily somewhere you would go as a family on a regular basis. However portions sizes are large so you can always share.
Definitely worth a visit if you are in the area.
If you are vising the area especially then check out some others things you could do in Chester too and if pancakes aren’t your think then you could always opt for an afternoon tea in Chester instead.