I'm no buffet restaurant fan - but Newcastle's Little COSMO has me converted

Every parent knows that, when multiple kids are involved, mealtimes - and getting everyone fed without fuss - is one of life's biggest challenges.

I'm not a fussy eater, I'll eat almost anything you stick on my plate, but somehow, it feels like I'm growing two of the most awkward diners on the planet.

For that very reason, eating out can become a nightmare. Many a night I've moaned at 'spending a fortune', only for the plates to go back to the kitchen, at said pub or restaurant, almost as full as when they arrived.

Not tonight. Not this time. Thank you, Little COSMO. You answered my prayers.

I was determined for this time to be different, I'd done all the usual prep. School done, swimming lessons navigated, snacks were kept to a minimum. Now we're cooking, well metaphorically, anyway.

It was, in fact, COSMO's night to cook - and as first impressions go, I was pleasantly surprised by what was on offer.

A buffet convert?

I'm genuinely not a massive fan of buffet restaurants in general. Yes, I can get stuck in at the all inclusive in Tenerife, but at home, I'm normally a cook and order on demand kind of guy.

But really, that was the beauty of COSMO. No need to worry about what the kids, or myself, will or won't eat. It was just a warm welcome by the accommodating staff, table found, bottomless soft drinks, then go grab a plate.

And when I say this place had everything, that doesn't do it justice. Obviously, it specialises in all your Chinese favourites. Black bean beef was my gold star performer. The kids went for all things noodles and some curry (with chips and prawn crackers, obviously). This was just plate one, by the way.

If I'd been able to stomach more, the duck and pancakes was a nice offering - and there was also sushi, if that's your kind of thing.

Second plate, I went on the hunt for something different. Indian was on the menu. This clearly wasn't what they specialise in, and their Chicken Tikka Masala was a bit on the basic side, but the unlimited naan to go with it was very appealing.

The kids went in one some of the more worldly offerings, with some freshly cooked chicken breasts, to go with the ample veg options and pizza - again with obligatory chips. Other potato-based accompaniments are available, including hash browns!

Chocolate fountain dreams

I can tuck food away, but a brimming plate of Chinese, then Indian cuisine had me stuffed. Time for desert. And this is where I forgot to mention how much of a distraction the deserts had been to the kids, both of whom saw their eyes light up at the very sight of a chocolate fountain!

Now was the time. I wasn't passing this up, nor were the kids, who'd clearly left room for what was to come.

Ice cream, a cup of flowing chocolate to dip sweets, popcorn and marshmallows into, it was the type of thing that forms the dreams of any kid - or adult.

There was also a huge selection of cakes, from Tiramisu to Eton mess, Black Forest gateau, cookie cheesecake and more.

It was the perfect end to what proved a fruitful night. I left suitably satisfied, and most importantly so did my little ones, 10 and seven.

If you, like me, have endlessly starving mouths to feed at any given time, do Little COSMO, it was a big win. And maybe, just maybe, the experience has converted this buffet avoidant diner.

What's on offer at Little COSMO?

You’ll find Little COSMO on Newgate Street, the newest restaurant in the COSMO group. Little COSMO Newcastle specialises in all of your favourite dishes from around the world, offering a more intimate experience being a smaller version of its sister venues. With over 100 dishes to choose from and spanning 6000 square feet, Little COSMO delivers that exciting all you can eat experience.

Price and value?

Adult pricing was £19.99 at the time NewcastleWorld reviewed, that was a Tuesday evening at 6pm. The child pricing on the evening was £10.99.

For more info check out https://www.cosmo-restaurants.co.uk/restaurants/newcastle