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Bassett's at Woodstock

John Bassett grew up in Inistioge and returned with his partner Mijke Jansen to run this scenically located contemporary restaurant at the historic and beautifully restored Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum.

In a modern building overlooking the Nore valley, and conveniently situated beside the visitors’ carpark, this is not just a ‘garden visits café’ but a fully fledged restaurant which has become a destination in itself.

Assuming you can take your eyes off the magnificent Kilkenny countryside for a moment, you’ll first suspect that something special awaits you when you notice saddleback pigs in a small pen near the car park.

Mijke and John welcome you personally, and you can have a drink in the little bar or go straight to your table in a room where the view seen through large windows takes centre stage - the other star of the show is Mijke Jansen’s food, which is really excellent.

The menu during the week is à la carte, with a tasting menu at weekends – and, although the choice may be limited, the quality, presentation and the delicate touch in the kitchen is wonderful.

An early summer menu might include starters like roast boned quail with salad of puy lentils, and sautéed foie gras, with rhubarb chutney and melba toast - followed perhaps by perfectly cooked sirloin of Kilkenny beef, served with a gorgonzola sauce, green asparagus, gratin potato and red wine jus, or a fish dish such as fillet of seabass en papillotte, with champagne and seasonal vegetables - carefully folded and wrapped in string, with a sprig of rosemary on top.

Everything is cooked and served correctly and very carefully presented, but not all cheffy. Eating a sublime chocolate truffle tart with vanilla ice cream - or a portion of Helen Finnegan’s local Knockdrinna cheese - while you enjoy the rolling south Kilkenny countryside makes a wonderful ending for a memorable meal.

Very good espressos too, and an interesting small wine list, including some organic wines.

Seats 34 (outdoors, 40); L wed-sun, 12-4 (to 6 on Sun); D Wed-Sat from 7. Closed Mon & Tue. MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

Follow signs for Woodstock Gardens