Irish Dinner In Conrad

Yes, Conrad, Montana hosted an absolutely wonderful traditional Irish dinner last night. With wheels pointed north on I-15 for the easy 60 mile jaunt, six of us headed for an evening of great food and even greater Celtic music.

We ate at Joe’s Family Steakhouse on the corner of Main and 4th Street, right by the town’s only stoplight. Conrad local, Jane Holzer, had coordinated the menu with the restaurant and we were not disappointed. The goal was to have this meal similar to one served and enjoyed by Jane at Roscommon, Ireland.

We started with a fresh vegetable salad followed by Irish soda bread. I could have had second helpings of both and called it a fine meal! Our wine glasses were filled and then came colconnan (mashed potatoes with cabbage and onions), corned beef, cabbage, boiled red potatoes and carrots. OK, I was hooked on this Irish food! It wasn’t over – we wrapped this delicious meal with cheesecake with lemon curd and a sticky toffee pudding. Did I mention after dinner coffee with Irish cream?

After all that very yummy food, we should have done an exercise class! Instead we walked across the street to the historic Orpheum theater. The above photo shows part of our group just getting ready to enter the Orpheum.

The Orpheum seats about 100 people. It has been restored with intricate details including a great looking chandelier in the lobby, brass railings and deep purple colors.

I’ve been able to tour the Orpheum theater several times while it has undergone a complete restoration but this was going to be my first performance attendance. Stay tuned, it was awesome!