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The Holy Grail?

By Ken Pothier- Contributing Writer

Monty Python's  quest for the Holy Grail is over. The grail can be purchased for $10, or you can get a fill of Holy Grail Ale for $13.95. The Irish restaurant/pub of the same name is located in the former Saint Joseph’s Parish Church, in Epping, NH. The owners, David and Maureen Kennedy, succeeded in making it a town landmark while celebrating this year's Saint Patrick’s Day.

The atmosphere is welcoming, complementing the delicious food and good-natured clientele. The cathedral's ceiling peaks over the bar and is enhanced by the soft light going through the original stain glass windows. A grand mural of a countryside town is found in the Cottage Room, where local musicians perform Thursday to Saturday evenings. A statue of a plump and jolly monk greets you together with the hostess.

The food, featuring authentic Irish and English dishes, is great, from appetizers to dessert, just as expected from any "Platinum Plate" winner of the TV Diner show. Check out the taste, healthy portions, and reasonably priced dishes such as: Bangers and Mashed, Shepherd’s Pie, Corned Beef & Cabbage or Dublin Style Fish 'n' Chips. The sampled appetizers, Drunken Mushrooms and Spinach & Artichoke Dip, can substitute a meal. My dish, a Bishop’s medium end cut 12- ounce Prime Rib was cooked to perfection and felt like 20 ounces.  The vegetables, salads and soups are also good and the sample of fish chowder was creamy, full of substance and flavor.

The staff is professional and friendly. The bar is a great place to enjoy a good time, as it offers 40 varieties of beer. If you get checked off for the "Beer Bible," a family crest is hung in your honor on the "Quest Family Wall" if you try 20 bottle varieties and 20 drafts. While being part of the "Beer Bible" is a dubious, yet honorable quest, along the way you are sure to make new friends. Check "The Holy Grail" out on their website, http://www.theholygrailpub.com/ and also drop by for a meal.