I initially sought out this book because of the title alone. It is the NEW Irish Table, so don't expect traditional dishes.

The recipes contained within are broken down to the following areas: Leinster(Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wexford, Wicklow), Munster(Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, Waterford), Connacht(Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon, Sligo), and Ulster(Antrim, Armagh, Cavan, Donegal, Down, Fermanagh, Londonderry, Monaghan, Tyrone). In case the reader forgets where any of these are located, there's a simplified map at the front. Recipes come from restaurants, resorts, and cookery schools. Each section includes beautiful pictures of the region. I really appreciate this because Ireland is such a beautiful place, one must always take advantage and show it off.

Recipes range from really difficult (at least for me) to mostly manageable. I've tried (and successfully executed) Julia Childs' Beef Bourguignon, so I think I can handle a lot of these. Within the pages of this book are mouth-watering soups, stews, desserts and so much more. It may not contain traditional dishes, but certainly is influenced by them. I'd love to try the Beef and Wicklow Wolf Stout Casserole, especially now that the weather is changing. Sadly, it isn't available in the states. And there in lies the rub. The farther from Ireland you are, the most difficult it will be to complete some of these recipes. It isn't all hopeless. I'd say a majority of the recipes are doable.

For those meat lovers, there is plenty to choose from. For those that prefer seafood, not to worry as they've included salmon, lobster, crab, mussels...even octopus. For the vegetarian, most chefs include a salad or soup that, even if it does feature meat, could easily be altered. And dessert connoisseurs, don't despair! There are a lot of recipes for you that include chocolate, cream, raspberries and more.

Ultimately, I think what really sold me on this book were the stunning photos and information on the various parts of Ireland.

Looking at the slow cooked pork shoulder with stuffing, sautéed potatoes and apple compote....my mouth is watering. I've got to try at least one of these recipes! ( )