Smiling Jack’s

One of the few stirling eateries that has stood the test of time, I went in here for dinner. I don’t actually like mexican food very much, but I was excited to see that the menu offered a full rack of ribs, served with handcut chips.
the portion was huge, even by my greedy standards. my friend had enchillada and rice — another large portion. Food was well prepared and the ingredients seemed of good quality. my handmade chips were not cooked right — either that or they;d gone soggy by the time I got to them from being served under the ribs (maybe serve them on a side-​dish, guys?).
The staff were nice too. Basically I felt Smiling Jack’s served a nice range of food, making for a pleasant dining experience. There’s nothing exceptional here but nothing gimmicky either. Very clean and very casual, with food better-​than-​average. will go back.

Ay, ay, ay!
One thing’s for sure… Smiling Jack’s, after it’s recent revamp and new management takeover, is looking hella’ fine! It seems to be somewhat of an institution in Stirling so, considering I live a mere thirty seconds away, lunch here was long overdue. This meant one thing… BRING ON THE TEX MEX!
It’s teeny weeny inside, cosey and quaint with cute little cacti on each of the tables. I like little decorative extras like this and they really went well with the Texas diner feel. Swinging saloon doors would be just perfect and a sure-​fire hit if only the Stirling weather called for it! We lunched in the early afternoon and whilst it was on the quieter side, it definitely had a steady flow of customers. So, I’d say it’s best to book ahead if you plan on getting your Tex Mex on in the evening!
The menu had all number of delicious sounding options but I was drawn to one thing and one thing only… Pulled pork quesadillas! Now, I’ve never ordered pulled pork before (I know, I know!) so I’ve no comparison but I can say that the pulled pork was so juicy, succulent and full of flavour. It was classed as a starter on the menu so, although the portion was generous considering, I don’t think it would be enough alone. We ordered spicy fries on the side and they came (in a HUGE portion!) in a dinky little metal tin and were amazingly seasoned. — Just the right amount of spice! Mmm!
Service was friendly and food was fast. We had some difficulty catching the attention of the staff which meant we had a little bit of a wait to order food and for the bill but I can say, with my hand on my heart, that it really was worth the wait and made for a great value lunch. I’ll definitely be back for dinner!
Now I know why Jack is smiling… It’s that damn pulled pork!
Mmm, mmm, mmm.

I really like this wee place. And by wee I mean wee — tiny tables and chairs but a really cosy, comfy little place. The décor is distinctly cheesy and «TexMex» but that’s not necessarily a bad thing — it’s fun and friendly and great for a casual, laid back dinner with friends.
Cocktails are cheap and really tasty and the food is great value for money and delicious (I recommend the chilli con carne, and their pita is delicious too!) There is a great selection of Mexican food on offer and also a varied selection of deserts. The Dime Bar Cake is absolutely to die for. I would literally go just to sample that particular delicacy again!
Staff are really friendly and chatty and the service runs very smoothly even when this little place is jumping! I would definitely recommended for a works night out or a fun and drink fuelled birthday dinner with pals. Ariba!

Small restaurant but big on value. The best texmex in the area with outstanding food and plenty of frozen margarita’s. Well worth booking a group over 6 people to take advantage of their buffet deal where they will bring you an enormous amount of food — I have never walked out of there able to eat anything more!