Timing can be crucial in the hospitality game – and the time is nigh for wine bars in Dublin. Several years ago, the owners of the excellent Baggot Street Wine off-licence decided that Dublin needed more wine bars and they opened Cavern in the lo ... more...
This well-maintained bar and restaurant halfway between Tralee and the village of Fenit (a busy fishing port and excellent base for sailing), is easily spotted by its large roof sign.
The Oyster has a strong local following, due to the convivial atmos ... more...
Right on the beach in Dunmore East, and with sea views out towards the Hook Lighthouse, The Strand goes back to 1750 but today it is the first choice for many discerning locals when it comes to seafood - and, increasingly, for discerning foodies on hol ... more...
West of the river, in the interesting old part of Athlone town near the Norman castle (which has a particularly good visitors’ centre for history and information on the area, including flora and fauna of the Shannon), this seriously historic bar ... more...
The Mountain House Bar is a traditional pub in the village of Ardfield, near Clonakilty, and it would be easy pass by - but that would be a mistake if it's a meal time, as this modest premises is well up in the local food league.
It's run by a local f ... more...
What a delight this pretty, traditional pub is - although now predictably popular with a young set who bring life and plenty of noise at busy times, it is a friendly and welcoming place without a sense of cliquishness so even the first time visitor wil ... more...
Originally opened in 1870, Flanagan’s pub is a thoroughly authentic piece of West Clare heritage, in the centre of the busy seaside town of Lahinch. A traditional bar remains, with hardwood floors and tongue and groove panelling, but its new owne ... more...
Just across the Clare River from the historic Claregalway Abbey, this popular small hotel is owned and operated by the Dunleavy family. It makes a great base for exploring Connemara and the West and is busy throughout the summer with tourists and busin ... more...
Butlerstown is a pretty pastel-painted village, with lovely views across farmland to Dunworley and the sea beyond.
Mary O'Neill's unspoilt pub is as pleasant and hospitable a place as could be found to enjoy the view - or to admire the traditional mah ... more...
Just beside the bridge over the Shannon in Tarmonbarry, this well-run bar and restaurant is a favourite watering hole for river folk and makes a great place to break a journey between Dublin and the north-west.
The bar is comfortably set up for food, ... more...