Poised scenically on the border between Galway and Mayo, Cong is a delightful village in its own right but, thanks to its connections with The Quiet Man - and the interest in Ashford Castle and it surroundings - it is a place where most visitors choose to take a break when exploring the area.
And this is where the Hungry Monk comes in – Fiona McMahon’s attractive all-day café is just the place to drop in for a wholesome meal or snack, at any time of day.
Cottagey and friendly, it has rough walls and brightly coloured mismatched chairs giving it a relaxed and homely feeling, and there’s a great aroma of really good coffee as you arrive - perfect to go with the gorgeous home bakes that this pleasant café is known for.
Fiona took over The Hungry Monk in 2009 and, not only has she has continued the emphasis on home baking, but also keeps a lot of the longstanding favourites on the menu - chocolate brownie, moist lemon and almond cake with fresh strawberries for example.
She is also committed to using Irish produce where possible and this can be enjoyed in an unusual range of sandwiches such as apple, bacon, brie & chutney panini; prawn, rocket leaves with a lemon & black pepper mayo on brown bread, perhaps; or excellent salads which might include pear with Cashel Blue cheese, crispy bacon & toasted hazelnuts, with balsamic vinegar & honey dressing, or smoked salmon salad.
A great little spot.
Seats 30; summer hours Easter- end August, Mon-Sat, 10-6pm & Sun 11-5pm; house wine €4.70 1/4 bottle. Toilets wheelchair accessible; children welcome (high chair, childrens menu). Closed Jan/Feb. MasterCard, Visa, Laser.
