Ye Old Tippling Philosopher, Caldicot. THIS is one of the most popular pubs in Caldicot, and it's easy to see why, whether you are eating or sinking a few jars of ale.

A well-liked pub for both the young and old on Chepstow Road, The Philosopher as it is known locally, has an extensive menu which favours the palate of the meat connoisseur. The staff are excellent and their friendly, polite service gives the place a lovely relaxed atmosphere.

With the main bar being a second home for the locals, a separate pool bar filled with the town's young and trendy means it is a good place to sup, whether you fancy a quiet pint or want to make a night of it.

The pub's real delights, however, are found in the restaurant's extensive menu. While vegetarians have precious little to choose from, with fish being the only option, the choice for meat lovers is huge, with a wide variety of ways to enjoy beef, lamb, chicken and pork.

For starters, the deep fried delights of Japanese king prawns, as well as breaded brie were well presented and enjoyed, but the real treats came with the main course. The Highland steak was a fine and tender cut, doused with Scotch whisky and topped with stilton, while the beef stroganoff was mouth-watering.

A wide selection of desserts in the refrigerated cabinet had to be ignored due to time constraints, but the final bill of £37.95, including drinks, was fair. Ryland James