The Newbridge country pub and restaurant, Tredunnock

ON a pitch black, foggy winter's night, The Newbridge restaurant near Usk is not the easiest place to find.

Situated on the banks of the river Usk in the tranquil village of Tredunnock, the Newbridge is definitely worth seeking out.

The warm and friendly environment of the downstairs bar that greeted my partner and I was just what was needed after braving the chill of the night.

After ordering a couple of drinks and poring over the appetising menu, we were ushered upstairs to the restaurant which was full but not crammed.

Before we could eat our first course we were given a generous portion of warm bread which went down very well.

To start I ordered open ravioli of spinach, mozzarella and basil finished with sun blushed tomatoes (£4.95) which was every bit as delicious as it sounds.

My partner had a smoked haddock risotto topped with caviar (£6.25) which was "very tasty".

For main course I opted for Welsh pigeon on a wild mushroom risotto with glazed carrots and thyme jus (£15.50).

The meat was quite dark and tender and went well with the risotto and vegetables.

My partner opted for the roast best end of upper Cathedine lamb with crushed garlic potatoes and root vegetables (£16.50). The lamb was succulent and the vegetables were cooked to perfection.

After such a feast we could only manage to share a chocolate tart with clotted cream (£4.95) between us which was delicious.

With a pint of beer and three glasses of wine, the bill came to £65.50 which was value for money, considering the food and the service was of the highest quality and in one of the nicest possible settings.