Life > October 11, 2007

By Ae'Jay Mitchell | Contributing writer

With a dim, green-colored atmosphere and jig- inspiring music, the Celtic Café delivers an all-around enjoyable dining experience. I entered the restaurant thinking that it would be another dull, aesthetically displeasing American representation of an Irish pub.

However, as I walked through the door, I embarked upon a journey to the fields of Ireland, where the potatoes are always ripe and the Cornish beef is always seasoned to perfection.

There is nothing pseudo-Irish about this restaurant.

The menu reigns authentic with an explanation of the family crest of John O’Brien’s, the restaurants owner and co-founder. The walls shout Irish pride through various memorabilia including a countdown to St. Patrick’s Day. Your drinks are even given to you in Irish-style goblets.

The ambiance of the restaurant inspired two of the friends I dined with to speak in an Irish accent.

To add to the Celtic theme, the restaurant hosts Wednesday night showcases of local Irish talent. Groups such as The Morris Family, an Irish folk group which Wake Forest senior Jess Morris is a member, and Fred Lavil, deemed the best fiddler in the North Carolina area by John O’Brien.

What would be an Irish restaurant without a bar?

Containing beer and wine selections from all over the world, the Celtic Café really revives the leprechaun within.

From the beer cheese to the buffalo chicken wrap, my taste buds were continuously tantalized. Both dishes guided me through the streets of Dublin with subtle yet explosive flavoring.

In the buffalo chicken wrap, there was a spice that slowly seduces you into swiftly devouring every morsel. For those with a sweet tooth, there is always the homemade rhubarb pie.

Not only did the food taste great, but our food was delivered in less than 15 minutes.

However, as the night progressed, the service started to decline. Drink cups went unfilled and the waitress took more than 30 minutes to bring our checks and receipts.

Despite the waitress’ laissez-faire attitude, the Celtic Café would be a great location for a student lunch date or a romantic evening of Irish cuisine.

Although the entrees are a bit pricey ($17- $22), students can enjoy burgers, wraps, Celtic specialties and appetizers for less that $15.

So you lads and lasses, if you would rather take a trip to the cliffs of Ireland than enjoy another “all you can force” meal at the Pit, go to The Celtic Café for a bit of Irish luck and dinner. I know I will. Anyone for corned beef and cabbage?