Tootsies - Hemel Hempstead

When Tootsies opened its first Holland Park outlet in 1971, one of the guiding aims of the founding managing director was to 'bring a better burger to London'. With close to thirty destinations throughout the UK, the chain has far exceeded their initial goal and the name has become synonymous with warm, friendly service and generous helpings of tasty food.

A bright, airy and modern ambiance with a lot of woodwork, black and white posters and bare brick walls, help recognise the typical retro American restaurant. Smartly dressed and friendly staff complement the setting.

Their menu offers customers imaginative and well-presented dishes - expect to find starters such as classic chicken wings with a choice of teriyaki glaze or Tootsies best selling Frank's hot sauce. The fresh Mediterranean platter with red pepper humous, olives, feta cheese, turtle bean salsa and flat bread is worth trying.

Mains rest on the able shoulders of their award winning burgers - the Mexico inspired Jalapeno with peppers, Monterey Jack cheese, Mexican hot sauce, avocado, sour cream, red onion and fresh coriander complements old favourites such as bacon and cheese. You could even choose a topping and build your old beef or chicken burger. They are all accompanied by French fries, salad garnish and a selection of relishes.

Other hearty options include chargrilled chicken or beefsteaks, barbecued ribs and seasonal butternut squash risotto. For those in search of a lighter meal, there is a selection of dressed salads and sandwiches. You could also take advantage of the big breakfast, which is available until 1:00PM.

Wines are listed according to flavour and body and are available by the glass or bottle and they also present spirits, a range of cocktails and beer. A specially designed children's list, developed by nutrition expert Annabel Karmel presents a range of organic dishes and milkshakes. The restaurant's dessert selection will force most diners to surrender - look out for the fire and ice sundae with ice cream, popcorn, chocolate chilli sauce, ginger and pear chutney as well as the British Bramley apple and blackberry pie.

Tootsies and Dexters offer the same menu with breakfasts, brunch and light lunches and promise 'great food for everyone'.