Mark and Claire Woods' little restaurant at the heritage centre in Carlingford has a great following.
Although tiny, it packs a mighty punch; it's amazing how much variety Mark manages to create in a kitchen with very limited space and how well Claire manages the service - but, while widely praised for producing what is regarded by many as the most exciting food in the area, local devotees often wonder aloud if the menu might be changed a little more often...
This small detail will not affect the visitor, however, who will thrill to modern menus beginning with a "something soup" and a selection of eight starters (risotto of ham and pea with basil oil & fresh parmesan and smoked fish cakes with olive tapenade & créme fraiche are all likely), while a similar number of main courses offers dressed up old favourites like sirloin steak (with potato rosti, garlic & parsley butter and onion sauce) alongside ideas from further afield like Thai spiced pork with sticky rice, curry oil, sweet soy & Asian salad.
There are quite a few vegetarian dishes (probably including a house special).
Desserts are not a particular priority (choice of four, possibly including apple strudel) but the wine list is another surprise for such a tiny place - not long by some standards, but interesting and fairly priced.
Pricing generally is very reasonable and the minimum charge given on the menu is fair. Not suitable for children.
Seats 26. D Tue-Sun 6.30-9.30 (Sun 5.30-8.30). A la carte (minimum charge about €16 per person). House wine about €21.
