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The Purple Heather

Open since 1964, Grainne O’Connell’s informal restaurant/bar was among the first to establish a reputation for good food in Kenmare, and is a daytime sister restaurant to Packie’s (see entry).

It’s a traditional darkwood and burgundy bar that gradually develops into an informal restaurant at the rear, as is the way in many of the best Kerry bars - and what they aim for and achieve, with commendable consistency, is good, simple, home-cooked food.

Start with refreshing freshly squeezed orange juice, well-made soups that come with home-baked breads, or salad made of organic greens with balsamic dressing.

Main courses include a number of seafood salads, vegetarian salads (cold and warm), pâtés including a delicious smoked salmon pâté plus a range of omelettes, sandwiches and open sandwiches (Cashel Blue cheese and walnut, perhaps, or crabmeat with salad) or Irish farmhouse cheeses (with a glass of L.B.V Offley port, if you like).

This is a great place, serving wonderfully wholesome food in a relaxed atmosphere - and it’s open almost all year.

*Grainne O’Connell also has self-catering accommodation available nearby.

Seats 45. Meals Mon-Sat, 11-5.30pm; house wine €19. Closed Sun, Christmas, bank hols. Visa, Laser.

Directions:

Town centre - mid Henry Street (on right following traffic flow).