There are few things that awaken the imagination to make you think of typical Americana than that of the classic American roadside diner, so when I was invited to spend a night at Mollie’s Motel and Diner and enjoy dinner and breakfast in exchange for an honest review I jumped at the chance.

A Night at Mollie’s Motel and Diner

Pancakes and waffles drizzled in maple syrup, eggs cooked a multitude of different ways, burgers with a dozens different fillings, piping hot filter coffee and delicious milkshakes. All of these conjuring images of bygone days and fantastical nights out.

What if I were to tell you that this wasn’t the 1950’s, nor was it the United States of America – it was Oxfordshire, on the A420, a hugely busy road between Swindon and Oxford.

On the site of a former Little Chef you’d be forgiven for thinking that this was going to be a cheap, bland and probably rather grotty place to lay your head before continuing on with your journey. However, Mollie’s Motel and Diner (which opened in February) is actually the latest venture for the team behind Soho House, which gives it a strange sense of glamour and prestige.

Situated next to a M&S food store and a BP garage, this really is the middle of nowhere, with nothing else to do for miles it doesn’t exactly exude inspiration for an exciting weekend adventure.

Rooms start at £65.00

The booking and checking in process couldn’t be easier, there’s a downloadable app where you can make your booking and check in yourself on arrival, your phone then also acts as your entry pass. This also provides your access to the fast and reliable Wi-Fi.

Upon arrival, you’ll find yourself in the General Store where you’ll find anything from charging cables to toiletries, there’s complimentary tea and coffee as well as hair dryers and irons which can be borrowed. The Store also acts as a relaxed lounge area where you can work for as long as you like using one of the multiple charging points.

If you like looking for additional features that make accommodation a little bit extra special then the free water fountain in the corridors should definitely be added to that list.

Entering your room you’ll find a large spacious bed with Egyptian cotton sheets, with minimal décor you’ll think you’ve stepped into a Scandinavian show home. There’s minimal décor compared to the usual hotel room – no minibar, no bizarre wall art, there isn’t even an oversized dressing down in sight. Instead simple furnishings give a relaxed vibe – just want you want for a night at the roadside. I was also particularly impressed by the 10 (yes 10) plug sockets dotted conveniently around my ground floor room.

Even the bathrooms are stylish, separate sinks mean that the minimal space is used wisely. There are no baths but the rainforest shower is impressive, with accompanying Cowshed toiletries.

Considering the proximity to the road I was surprised (and very pleased) by the utterly peacefulness of the rooms. There wasn’t a single buzz from the outside world.  

Tip: Be warned, there’s no lift so if you’re going to struggle with stairs or luggage make sure you request a ground floor room.

Rooms start at £65.00

The neighbouring diner which is just across the carpark also acts as a drive-thru and appeared to be constantly in use during my stay. This is where the 1950’s throwback comes into play, as cool staff in T-shirts dish out dirty burgers, rotisserie chicken and knickerbocker style ice creams. 

Customers sit in teal leather booths at silver-trimmed tables with retro tomato shaped Ketchup bottles, under globe shaped lights. There are no bookings and according to the staff it has been regularly busy since opening so be sure to get there before you’re too hungry.

In terms of the quality of the food I really couldn’t fault it. The chicken sandwich burger was delicious (even though I’d forgotten to ask for the tomato to be removed) as were the crinkle-cut chips (£11.00 when ordered as a deal with a soda.) I skipped desert but the cocktail menu was too good to miss so I highly recommend a Mollie’s Margarita (£7.50).

For breakfast there was no question about me ordering the pancakes and bacon with maple syrup. The filter coffee (with free refills) was a godsend at 8:30 in the morning. 

Rooms start at £65.00

The ultimate question is: would I stay at Mollie’s Motel and Diner again. The answer is yes. Definitely. I’m also quite excited by the prospect of more opening in various locations across the country.

The image and style they were hoping for has been implemented and achieved successfully. The rooms, the food, the service are all exciting and well executed.

Location:

Mollie’s Motel and Diner, Shrivenham Road (A420), Buckland, Oxfordshire, SN7 8PY

Have you stayed or eaten at Mollie Motel and Diner yet?

What did you think?

Let me know in the comments.