Many of the starters, including the Triple Play (chicken crispers, buffalo wings, and southwestern egg rolls with dip) and classic nachos, are designed to shared. And don't forget - at Chili's you are assured service with a smile.

From the grill, fajitas are clearly the speciality, and the selection is impressive: steak and portobello; mushroom jack; citrus fire chicken and shrimp; and the Classic each come in 'Americansized' portions with all the trimmings. A Guiltless Grill, however, does offer an alternative for the diet-conscious. The Chocolate Chip Paradise Pie, a nutty bar served with hot fudge and ice cream, is worth saving space for, but it is advisable to request two spoons.

Treat yourself to the Chili's signature drink - the refreshing Presidente Margarita - or choose from the extensive list of cocktails. Beer drinkers can buy a bucket of Bud or one of the other eight varieties on offer - for the Mexican angle, Dos Equis does nicely.

Large groups are made particularly comfortable at Chili's, which also has UK branches in Basildon, Cambridge, and Canary Wharf. The lively atmosphere makes for a genuinely entertaining place to eat. Spread over two floors, window seats overlook the nightspots that line the Oracle, while high-backed chairs offer alternative seating in the bar area.

Chili's is the perfect place to get the party started.