In the same family ownership as Dublin’s stylish Saba (see entry) and Saba to Go, Mark Cadden’s gastropub is the busiest bar food venue in the Castlebar area - and that is as it should be as their parents, Mary and Michael, were pioneers of the catering industry west of the Shannon and were for many years owners of the Asgard Bar & Restaurant in Westport.
Together with his brothers Paul and Alan, (owners of Saba and Saba To Go), it is pleasing to see this generation of Caddens also at the forefront of the industry.
Bar One is a modern and well-designed bar, with a lot of wood - dark timber floors, tables and chairs - smart upholstered stools and plenty of space for standing when in for a drink at night.
The welcome is warm and friendly, with menus promptly produced and specials explained. Classic fish dishes - cod in a crispy beer batter with mushy peas and home-cut fries, and an excellent seafood pie - are always good, and meat lovers will enjoy dishes like delicious freshly grilled liver and bacon or a deeply-flavoured beef stew.
Lunch – offered between noon and 5pm – offers a selection of wraps and burgers, curries, fish and pasta. Daytime specials change daily, and, with the best of local ingredients available, extras including steaks and prime seafood are added in the evening. Gluten free and vegetarian versions of several dishes, including pizza bases, are offered. Bar One also stocks a great range of craft beers including local Mayo products, on draught and by the bottle, to match with your food.
Families are very well catered for. The staff are excellent and multi-generational groups will feel very much at home here, as everyone is looked after so well with big
smiles and no fuss - just great.
Although Michael is missed these days, as he has always kept a watchful eye on proceedings, the high standards established from the outset at Bar One are being maintained, and it must be one of the best run establishments in the country. The food is as good as ever, and comes highly recommended.
At the weekend queues form for the night time D.J. and live music sessions, open till late, so be on time as this is Castlebar’s night-time hotspot.
