EATING at Church Street Chop House in Lancaster is a unique experience for more reasons than one.

First, the restaurant is in one of the oldest parts of the city and the building was once the home of the Duke of Lancaster Masonic Lodge after it was bought by the Masons in 1884.

And if, like us, you are seated in The Temple Room upstairs, you will most likely find yourself perusing the ornate Masonic symbolism, which is part of the rich heritage found within the building.

But it is not just the restaurant which will grab you, the food on offer is second to none.

New to Lancaster, Church Street Chop House specialises in serving fine steaks.

It is a sister business to the successful Bare Village Butchers and Deli just down the road in Morecambe.

I was one of a party of four who headed to the venue and for a starter decided on the breaded brie wedges served with a spiced cranberry relish (£5.60).

They were terrific, although perhaps a little overpriced if I’m honest.

Two of my friends went for the black pudding, new potato and chorizo salad (£5.95), which looked great, and another chose the prawn cocktail (£5.85).

Main course wise, there was more than steaks on offer, but as they are the speciality of the house, three of us went for it.

Now when it comes to ordering your steak, you choose the type of steak (and there is everything from 20oz T-bone to 6oz fillet), then a sauce and your choice of accompaniment (from chips to basmati rice).

I went for a 10oz rib eye with peppercorn sauce and chips (£16.75) cooked medium, plus onion rings (£2).

One of my pals went for the same, while another chose the burger served with Monterey Jack cheese, bacon, iceberg lettuce, beef tomato and onion rings, with chips (£13.95).

I can honestly say that mine was the best steak I have ever tasted, and I was really delighted.

Although I was full almost to the brim, I managed to cram in a white chocolate creme brulee, served with home-made shortbread (£4.60) – the perfect end to a delicious meal.

* The total cost of two three-course meals and two two-course meals (excluding drinks) was £98.75.