Poised promisingly just across the road from Enniscrone's famous beach - and a couple of doors from the even more famous Kilcullen’s Seaweed Baths (est. 1912) - this well established business came into energetic new ownership in 2018.
This marked an important change for the town and the new team - Jason Horkan, Daniel Mayr and their partners Yvonne (head chef) and Sonata (front of house), all of whom have extensive experience in hospitality - lost no time in establishing Waterfront House & Restaurant as a destination for food lovers, as well as those with a penchant for all of the good things that Co Sligo, and especially Enniscrone, has to offer.
With a proper reception/bar area, a lift, and 16 spacious bedrooms - many with sea views - it feels more like a boutique hotel than a restaurant with rooms and it's a very comfortable and relaxing place to stay.
But the busy restaurant is the beating heart of Waterfront House and it has become the go-to place for discerning locals and visitors alike. Overlooking the sea, it's a pleasantly atmospheric space on two levels, with warm and welcoming staff who quickly make arriving guests feel at home.
Menus lean towards seafood and steak but offer plenty of choice and there's a strong sense of seasonality and local provenance. There's a fascinating map on display in the restaurant, giving information about the artisan producers and quality suppliers in the local area and around Ireland that they regularly use, and this can also be accessed on the website.
Many respected local and Irish producers, including Andarl Farm organic meats and Dozios cheese from neighbouring Mayo, are name checked on dishes too, and there are some lesser known ones to try too, such as Gaelic Escargots from Co Carlow which are the stars of an unusual risotto.
Portions tend to be hearty - this is golfing country after all - and the wide ranging drinks offering includes plenty of Irish craft beer and spirits as well as an extensive wine list.
Given the exceptional location, this is a place that could easily coast and it's greatly to the credit of the team that genuine hospitality, great local food and good value are its USPs.
