Overview

Fino is a new Italian restaurant in Wakefield where the Cowshed was, and owned by the same people who own Robatary and Qubana in Wakefield. Access isn't great, I would guess the building is listed, and the toilets are upstairs. They did make concessions such as putting us at an easily reached table and offering me to use Robatary's accessible toilet, which is just down the road. For someone like me with a chronic illness who can walk a little with help and is more concerned with food intolerances, I would say Fino can work. For others, not so much. The food options are good for gluten free, dairy free and vegans. I can't eat gluten, potatoes, peppers or onions, which can be difficult in restaurants, and they accommodated me fine with plenty of options. Everything is made from scratch so he said I could amend most dishes, but they do warn traces may be found because there's only one oven etc.

Transport & Parking

Fino is two minutes from Wakefield bus station, 10-15min walking distance from the station with the free bus as an option and the road has a bit of parking that is free with a blue badge.

Access

The entrance is around the back for everyone off a cobbled courtyard which is uncomfortable as a wheelchair user. There is one small, slightly wonky step, which my wheelchiar could not manage, but I just needed a small lift at the front and then I made it in. The restaurant knew we were coming and placed us at a great table that was easily accessible from the entrance. Some of their tables are upstairs however so best to book.

Toilets

The toilets are upstairs which I didn't know before booking. There are fairly steep stairs, about one flight, but there are chairs near the top by the toilets if you can manage with difficulty but need a rest. I managed with help. The toilet I used was very small and didn't have rails but did have furniture to lean on. You wold struggle to get a carer in this one with you, but the second one was bigger. The waiter did give me the option of using their sister restaurant Robatary's disabled toilet, which is about 5 doors down. Not ideal but an option if you wish to eat here.

Staff

The staff were friendly, helpful and slightly apologetic. They didn't judge me for my disability or my dietary needs.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

I would visit again potentially because the food and vibe were really good and they catered to my awkward diet without issue. Next time I wouldn't use the upstairs toilet because it was exhausting, but would nip to Robatary.