On the edge of the picturesque village of Inistioge, with views of extensive parklands and the River Nore, Rodney & Deirdre Doyle’s restaurant is situated in the classically proportioned Plas Newydd Lodge, named in honour of the famous ladies of Llangollen, who eloped from Inistioge in the late 18th century.
Although small in size, this unique country restaurant has great charm. An L-shaped room with a Kilkenny marble fireplace and simple, effective decor makes a good setting for Rodney Doyle’s accomplished cooking, and many will welcome the slightly retro feel to the menu, which offers dishes now seen less often and makes a change from the modern multi-national menus which are currently almost universal.
Expect delicious home-made breads, starters like ham hock terrine with orange & apple chutney and a mustard seed dressing, and main courses such as delicious crispy stuffed duckling, or fillet of beef with their trademark cracked pepper & brandy cream sauce.
Menus are sensibly limited, but always include an imaginative vegetarian dish, and classic desserts like strawberry Pavlova or Grand Marnier crème brulée are delicious.
It’s good to see suppliers credited on the menu, and very hospitable service adds to the enjoyment. Small weddings or private parties can be catered for.
Seats 40 (private room 16); reservations recommended. D Thurs-Sat 7-9.30 (also Sun of bank hol weekends). Set 2/3 course D €34.50/39.50; L Sun only, 1-3.30pm, a la carte; house wine €21.50. SC discretionary (except 10% on groups of 6+). Closed Sun D (except bank hol weekends), Mon-Wed; 1 week June, 1 week Jan. Amex, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.
