WHEN going to Plato's I was expecting some sort of Roman building with knowledgeable quotes scattered on the walls. I needn’t have worried.

Kirkby Lonsdale's Plato's was nothing like its name suggests. Instead it is a thoroughly modern restaurant and you will be pushed to get a seat if you fail to pre-book at peak times.

We were lucky enough to bag one only after others diners rushed their coffees to let us in.

The staff were accommodating and even upgraded us to a larger table when one came available.

For our drinks we had fresh orange all round which was promptly brought out to us.

There were loads of appealing options on the daytime menu and I was torn in at least three directions.

My friends settled on the luxury fish pie with fresh cod, salmon and prawns cooked in lemon and tarragon cream, topped with buttery mashed potato, Lancashire cheese and served with fresh greans or a vegetable paella accompied by pot of salad, hunk of bread and garlic oil.

I went for the fish platter, which came out with Lune Valley smoked salmon, grilled gambas still in their armour, buttered shrimps, bread and olives. Although it was very nice indeed I have to confess I suffered from food envy when I saw the pie.

They both came on local slate plates and mine had little jars for each component of the meal. The fish tasted very fresh and the bread came out warm and soft.

The staff were helpful and friendly throughout.

The price, for two mains, excluding drinks, was £17.90.