Ego Mediterranean Restaurant & Bar, Stockton Heath

You know that stretch of Walton Road where Stockton Heath tries its hardest to feel continental? This is where Ego fits right in, serving up Mediterranean classics in a buzzy setting that works whether you're doing Sunday lunch with the kids or date night after a few drinks at The Red Lion. The wood-fired pizzas are genuinely good – proper charred crusts and generous toppings that justify the £12-15 price tag. Their sharing platters lean heavily on the usual suspects (hummus, olives, grilled halloumi) but everything's fresh and portions are generous enough that you won't leave hungry. Service can be a bit hit-and-miss during weekend rushes, but the open kitchen keeps things lively and the wine list offers decent value bottles that pair well with their grilled meats and seafood.