The Edwards family are over 45 years in business at this characterful old place in the heart of Kinsale, which is known for its atmosphere and the consistent quality of the hearty food served in both bar and restaurant. Its cosy pub atmosphere is emphasised by “oil” lamps above the tables, and the décor - a polished wood floor with inset patterned tiles, mustard and maroon colour scheme, and curios on display - works really well for an informal, relaxed ambience.
Seafood is the speciality, and the Edwards team take pride in introducing visitors to the wide range of seafood available in local waters, and ensuring that it is fresh and simply prepared and presented so that the quality of ingredients can take centre stage.
The extensive bar menu and lunch menus offer a tempting selection of dishes, plus daily specials on both the all-day bar menu and the evening à la carte: baked seafood au gratin, naturally smoked haddock and Kinsale mussels might feature at lunch time, for example, and more sophisticated dishes such as pan fried monkfish medallions with ginger, spring onion and lime, and grilled black sole on the bone simply served with lemon. And of course, there’s fresh lobster from the tank.
But, although seafood is to the fore, there’s plenty to please everyone on all menus, including traditional treats like chicken liver paté, kidneys 'Madeira' and deep-fried St Killian brie among the starters and classic main courses like honey roast Slaney Valley rack of lamb, great steaks and roast Skeaghanore duck, plus a choice of imaginative vegetarian dishes.
Everything is carefully prepared and really tasty, and the friendly, smartly dressed staff are very professional and efficient.
Offering good value is a priority here too - and there's an extensive wine list.
