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Avoca Handweavers, Kilmacanogue

This large shop and restaurant, off the N11 south of Dublin, is the flagship premises of Ireland's most famous group of craft shops and, they have become almost equally well known for the quality of their food - people come here from miles around to shop, and to tuck into wholesome home-cooked food, which is based as much as possible on local and artisan produce, and there is a commitment to using products from recognised Quality Assurance Schemes. (In recognition, Avoca Cafes were the recipients of the Féile Bia Award in 2003).

The style at Avoca is eclectic and, although they are especially well-known for great baking and traditional dishes like beef and Guinness casserole, their salads and vegetables are also legendary. In addition to the large self-service area, a delightful new table service cafe, The Fernhouse, opened in 2007, making this an even more attractive destination and there is also a wide range of excellent delicatessen fare for sale in the shop.

*Also at: Avoca, Powerscourt, Rathcoole & Suffolk Street, Dublin 2 (see entries). Now also at The Garden Café, Mount Usher Gardens, Ashford.

Toilets wheelchair accessible; Children welcome. Seats 170 (+Outdoor Dining, 80). Air conditioning. Open daily, 9.30-5 (Sun 10-5). House wine from €20. No s.c. Closed 25-26 Dec. Amex, Diners, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

On N11 sign posted before Kilmacanogue Village