****Genuine hospitality, high standards of comfort, thoughtful service and outstanding food are all to be found in the Deevy family's 18th century country house and restaurant just outside Cappoquin - no wonder this is a place so many people like to keep as a closely guarded secret. Guest rooms vary, as is the way with old houses, although all are comfortably furnished - but the restaurant is the real heart of Richmond House: Paul Deevy is a fine chef, offering a balance between traditional country house cooking and more adventurous dishes - house specialities include roast rack of delicious West Waterford lamb (with braised puy lentils, home-made mint jelly and rosemary & garlic jus), classic desserts are simply delicious, and the wine list is interesting and fairly priced. Walking, fishing, equestrian and garden visits nearby. Rooms 9.
Restaurant: D daily. Open all year except Christmas.
Seats 45 (private room, 14). D 6-9.30 daily (to 9pm Sun); Set D €58, early bird 6-7.30pm €33 (vegetarian menu also avail); house wine €20; sc 10% on groups 6+. Children welcome. Closed 22 Dec-10 Jan. Amex, Diners, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.
Directions:
1km (0.5 mile) outside Cappoquin on N72.