The Eastwood Towne Center in Lansing Township is the perfect setting to tantalize the senses - especially smell and taste. One can't help but notice the smell coming from the restaurants in the mall that can lead shoppers to sample the fare.
In the midst of this cluster of scents is the Claddagh Irish Pub, part of a larger chain that first opened its doors in 2000 in Indianapolis and has locations in other states.
Today might be St. Patrick's Day, but a trip to this place is worthwhile no matter the occasion.
The restaurant is split into four different atmospheres to capture the essence of Ireland. In the back, there's a Gothic room with 16th century architecture, the Claddagh room and Dublin room, both decked out in wood for a pub feel, and the library room, which has pillars to symbolize Trinity College in Ireland's capital, Dublin.
One of the popular dishes is the fish and chips. And just a reminder, chips in Great Britain are fries in America. There is a full and half order of the dish, but even just the half order is enough to fill a hungry tummy. Try the seasoned sour cream to go with the chips.
"The country of Ireland is a strong fishermen's country," said Mike Trapani, the restaurant's manager.
Vegetarians beware - many of the dishes contain some kind of meat, especially seafood. But the Classic Pub Burger, normally served as a half-pound Angus beef burger charbroiled with tomato, lettuce and red onion, can be served as a garden burger.
The good thing for carnivores is that the meat comes in hefty portions. But the one thing that separates Claddagh from other restaurants is the price. This restaurant might be best for family outings or special occasions, not as a chill spot after long shopping sprees. The average price for a salad is about $10, and the dishes run between $10.95 and $24.95.
Despite the price, there are few restaurants in the area that serve Irish fare and serve it up in a hefty manner. Some traditional dishes on the menu include Homemade Shepherd's Pie, a ground beef and vegetable dish, and Bangers' and Mashed, a dish of sausages served on top of mashed potatoes.
Contrary to what many believe, corned beef and cabbage is not a traditional Irish dish, but it is on the menu.
"It became an Irish tradition in America," Trapani said. "If you went to a small town in Ireland looking for a big chunk of corned beef, you wouldn't find it."
A lot of the dishes have Guinness or some other alcohol in them. And most of the desserts have either Bailey's, Guinness or Irish whiskey as an ingredient.
"It's just an addition for added flavor," Trapani said.
For most who have never experienced Irish culture or food, Trapani said this restaurant is the best place to check it out.
"There's no place like us," Trapani said.
For more information about Claddagh Irish Pub, including an online menu, visit www.claddaghirishpubs.com.
