Sokrates Greek Taverna, Winter Hey Lane, Horwich - WE had fully expected plates would be smashed on the floor all around us when we visited the Greek restaurant, Sokrates, writes David Crookes.

But luckily that was not the case -- otherwise this fine restaurant on Winter Hey Lane, in Horwich, would have run out of plates on which to serve their excellent cuisine.

Everything else about Sokrates is authentically Greek, from the decor, to the atmosphere, right down to the grape vines on the ceiling.

Sokrates has been located in the centre of Horwich for seven years. Parking was no problem -- there are plenty of spaces at the back of the restaurant.

And on a dark and drizzly night you could do far worse than opt for this Mediterranean eatery. The three rooms, of which the middle and biggest one is the liveliest, are usually full of couples and small groups, with Greek music playing in the background and pictures and paintings of Hellenic scenes adorning the bright walls.

It was a perfect setting for a romantic meal for two.

As soon as we entered the cosy little restaurant, we were shown straight to our table and handed our menus.

And the choice was just mind blowing. There were no less than 56 starters.

You can choose middle eastern dips, kebabs, seafood including prawn and squid, salads, stuffed vine leaves with mince meat and soup.

The prices are bordering on the expensive side (between £3.50 and £5 in the main) but the quality is at the very highest.

I chose loukanika, spicy wine sausages from Cyprus (£4.30) while my partner opted for keftedes, wonderful Greek style meat balls in a tasty tomato sauce (£4.50).

The portions were generous, each tantalising our taste buds to the extent that we were keenly awaiting the main courses.

The thin sausages had a slight hint of spice and came in an unusual spiral shape, not at all like the sausages you'd get in a greasy spoon English cafe -- far more tasty.

The meat balls were spicier but no less appetising.

So when it came to the serving of the main course, we were both eager to tuck in.

I chose the chicken athena, a breast of chicken grilled and served with a light wine and sauce, served with an ample portion of rice (£9.50).

My partner asked for Auntie Maria's Stifado: topside of beef cubes cooked in a casserole with onions, red wine vinegar and tomatoes served with rice and chips (£10.50). There were many, many other dishes on offer with lamb, pork and prawns taking up the remainder of the menu and a good range of vegetarian options.

These included pancakes filled with mushroom (£9.20), oven baked beans (£8.90) and nut balls in tomato and basil (£10.50).

But the dishes we chose were out-of-this-world. Both were creamy with succulent meat and more than enough rice.

So it was onto the desserts with me opting for a banana and strawberry ice (£2.30) and my partner choosing a delicious cold lemon pie (£2.95).

Together with the drinks, the total bill came to £37.50 -- and we added a generous tip.

There is very little to find fault at Sokrates -- it has fine food, good service and bags of atmosphere.

The restaurant, even though a little cramped, is all on level ground, so wheelchair access is possible, but it would be advisable to check beforehand because of the space inside. A children's menu is available on request.

Younger members of the eating out market, should go to Sokrates on the more lively themed night of Monday. But, on the right occasion, as we proved, Sokrates is more than adequate for a quiet evening out.

Overall Rating ****

Menu****

Atmosphere****

Service***

Value for money***

Disabled access***

Vegetarian menu****

Children's menu -- available on request

How to get there: From Bolton, travel up Chorley New Road into Horwich and turn right into Winter Hey Lane.