We stayed with friends in Edenderry, a small, quiet village where the sweet, earthy smell of burning peat from the nearby bogs flavours the night air. On the night that we decided to go out for dinner the weather was miserable but lights blazing from Caesar’s restaurant offered us a welcome respite from the cold and rain.

Caesars isn’t large but it is one of the most popular restaurants in Edenderry. Owner Pauric Whelehan is also the chef and takes pride in turning out large portions of good food for his mostly local clientele. The menu is a mixed bag - pasta, chicken, seafood and steaks.

Tony warned us that the portions were large so we didn’t bother with starters but we could not pass up the freshly baked dense multi grain bread that is served before each meal. In fact, the bread is so popular that people stop in just to buy a loaf to take home.

Jim and I both ordered deep fried cod. Barbara had grilled salmon Florentine and Tony opted for steak. With the meals came salad and a choice of fries, potato wedges or baked potato. The side dishes were served family style so we had large bowls filled with steamed green peas in butter, crispy potato wedges and French fries. The cod was fresh, not frozen, and fried in a crispy Guinness flavoured batter and Barbara’s salmon was served in a white wine sauce with prawns and spinach. Tony’s T-bone, served with sautéed mushrooms and onions, covered most of his plate. All the meals were delicious and there was so much food we had a hard time finding room for all the serving dishes on the table.

Although full, we managed to share a slice of Irish cream cheesecake and it was the perfect end to a fine meal. Prices averaged 5.50 euro for starters, 11 for most entrees and 20 for steaks. Service was unhurried, pleasant and friendly. The restaurant is open for dinner from 6 to 11 pm Tuesday through Saturday and has a very limited liquor menu - just bottled beer and wine.