Published: June 01. 2010 2:00AM

By Renata Parker
CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Like a lot of brilliant business ideas, the concept for John Ceglendy’s new restaurant started on the back of a napkin. Named after the founder of Simpsonville, P. Simpson’s Hometown Grille opened last year and is quickly becoming a favorite gathering spot.

Ceglendy says the restaurant’s popularity may stem from its appeal to diners seeking high quality at reasonable prices. “It's a place where people come to enjoy themselves and have a good time. Whether in jeans or a jacket, you can come as you are and feel comfortable,” said Ceglendy.

To accommodate the growing crowd of diners, Ceglendy recently expanded the dining room and added a separate 30-seat private dining room, which combined more than double the size of the original restaurant space. The décor is handsome and polished, reflecting Ceglendy’s meticulous attention to detail and building quality, which comes easily from a successful career in the fine-home-building industry.

Ceglendy assembled a team of culinary talents that includes executive chef Patrick Hartnett, who was selected after an extensive review of more than 200 qualified candidates, and well-known sous chef Russell Pruitt, who has a following of fans for his tasty cheesecakes.

Hartnett creates a menu each day that includes a selection of innovative American fare. Try any of P. Simpson’s signature dishes, like the tender certified Angus beef or the delicious Crispy Pork Tenderloin Milanese, prepared breaded and then drizzled with zesty lemon caper sauce. Small plate selections are also available, which makes ordering just one a challenge. Try the Soba Noodle Salad with Poached Salmon and Crème Fraiche, or the White Bean Cake served with tasty tempura veggies and topped with just a hint of grilled pineapple vinaigrette. Topped with fresh-shaved Parmesan, goat cheese, Roma tomato sauce and a few pickled red onions, the House Smoked Chicken Flatbread is a small plate which is big on flavor.

In addition to great food and a welcoming atmosphere, P. Simpson’s hosts a variety of performers, from bands to soloists, for evening diners to enjoy whether seated inside or on the outside patio. With this combination, it’s easy to see why P. Simpson’s Hometown Grille is the talk of the town. www.psimpsons.com