Ger and Geraldine Reidy have been in the hospitality business for a long time, originally in Kilkenny and then in Co Sligo, so they were already well known in the area when they opened this popular wine bar and bistro in the centre of Sligo Town.
The modest-looking premises gives very little away from the street yet, once inside this comfortable but unpretentious place, the warm and inviting welcome immediately reveals one of several key reasons for its popularity.
It’s a spacious restaurant and bar, set in a long room – bright and modern, with some bare-topped tables and others white-clothed, it provides a simple background for good food served in an hospitable atmosphere.
A complimentary nibble - Guinness brioche served with home made raspberry and chilli jam, perhaps – makes a very good first impression and fish lovers, especially, will enjoy reading the menu as Ger also owns a fish shop.
With this in mind the Catch of the Day is always a good bet – check out the blackboard for fish and seafood specials; depending on availability, as many as 8 or 9 varieties of fish may be offered, each with its own style of presentation. Lissadell Oysters, Grilled Seabass, Tian of Crab and Prawns, Seafood Cassoulet, and Seared Sea Trout are just a few examples that regularly feature.
Meat and poultry lovers are well catered for too, with steaks another good bet, and a commitment to using organic and locally sourced produce where possible, notably in vegetarian dishes and the generous selection of colourful seasonal vegetables that accompanies all main courses.
Desserts in the ‘old favourites’ tradition – chocolate biscuit cake, for example – are made in-house and also come in generous portions.
Although it is not very extensive, the wine list nevertheless offers appropriate choices to accompany the menu.
Service is casual and can be a little slow, but the staff are very friendly and hospitable - this is one of the most appealing aspects of the experience here, and one of the reasons that people keep coming back.
Ger also makes his own range of pesto, preserves, jams and pickles, which are for sale in the restaurant.
Mon-Sat, 10am-11pm.
