As the landscape evolved, so did the Grove pub which overlooks it. In the intervening years it has had several names, but only in more recent times has the business, which is now called Casa, really blossomed.

From its terraces, there are wonderful views across the lake, the canal and the river, making this an ideal point for a wind-down drink on the way home from work.

Casa also has a reputation as a good eating spot. At this time of year the whole place takes on a real Mediterranean feel, like the food it serves, and customers can choose a table indoors or out.

On first impression this is a relaxed kind of place, if a little noisy.
The indoor restaurant – my wife and I, and the couple we dined with, were not brave enough to dine al fresco – was pleasant and welcoming.

The waiters were brisk and engaging and we were well looked after from the moment we arrived.

We all chose from a menu and specials board, which offered as wide a variety of modern dishes as anyone could wish for. It was not overly expensive, though not cheap either.

I had chicken livers with pitta bread to start. Cooked perfectly, but there was so much. Half the amount would have been more than enough.

There were appreciative noises coming from the other three sides of the table where a goat's cheese tart, tomato and basil soup and smoked duck salad were being enjoyed.

Belly pork features big on menus these days and the lure of crunchy crackling made my choice easy. The pork was slightly overcooked, but a small price to pay for perfect crackling. It came served on a stack of vegetables. Right amount this time and a clean plate to indicate enjoyment. My wife had sea bass fillets, which she said were excellent.
Our friends did not have a bad word to say about the salmon fillet and lamb shank they had ordered.

I would have had cheese and biscuits but none were on the menu, which I find infuriating. But, to his credit, our waiter did later say he could fix me a plate. But by then the urge had passed.

Instead, I watched as the girls admiredand wolfed down profiteroles and a crème brûlée.

We finished with filter coffees and had a nightcap before setting off home happy.

Just one moment threatened the harmony of the evening, when the white Rioja I had chosen arrived warm. But this was rectified with minimum fuss and a suitably chilled version put in its place.

The meal cost £60 for two with a bottle of wine.

Ratings
Name: Casa Hotel, Bar and Restaurant.

Address: 281, Elland Road, Brighouse.

Phone: 01484 401717.

Food 4/5
Atmosphere 3/5
Service 4/5
Value 3/5