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The Beach House Bar & Restaurant

Lovely views across the lough may be the trump card at this smart-casual restaurant but it has plenty else going for it too. A location beside the pier serving the Rathmullan car ferry must introduce it to a lot of happy visitors – who can walk off their meals on the beach afterwards.

Welcoming signs at the door ensure that nobody passes unknowingly and, once inside, the stylish yet laid-back two-storey restaurant and Claire McGowan’s friendly staff will have you hooked. Menus and water arrive promptly at your table, along with a bit of banter to make you feel at home.

A good daytime choice ranges from soups, (including a seafood chowder) salads, sandwiches and bakes to tasty main courses like moules marinières pommes frites, whilst smartly presented evening menus up the ante a bit to include starters like pale smoked haddock & crab cakes alongside the ubiquitous tiger prawns and mains including several fish dishes, roast duckling and a choice of steaks. Appealing vegetarian dishes are included, and a proper Kids menu is offered separately.

Although not long, the wine list is appropriate.

With nicely cooked popular dishes in served by lovely staff in stylish surroundings, this is a pleasant place to eat.


Seats 100; banqueting (100); Children welcome (high chair, childrens menu, baby changing facilities); Open all year: Open 7 days high season, L from 12, D from 5pm; Off Season - D Wed-Sun from 5pm; L Fri-Sun from 12pm; A la carte L & D; set Sun L €21.95. House wine €18; Live music on Saturday nights - see website for further detail. Closed Mon, Tue off season and Last 2 weeks in Jan. Amex, MasterCard, Visa, Laser, Switch.

Directions:

Located on Buncrana Pier about 40km (25.1m) north of Letterkenny on R238. 23km (14m) from Derry city and 20km (12m) south of Ballyliffin.