Since 1991, Kevin and Ann Dunne have been running this attractive cottagey restaurant on the main street of Moycullen and, although the village around them has seen unsympathetic development recently, this remains a charming place and is on many a regular diner’s list of favourites.
Arriving guests can have an aperitif in the bar before heading into the restaurant, which is atmospheric, with open stonework, low lighting and candlelight. Kevin sources ingredients with care and offers weekly-changing dinner and à la carte menus, with daily specials, and a set Sunday lunch which is in great demand.
Cooking is consistently good in a refreshingly traditional style and features local meats including Connemara lamb (a local speciality is smoked lamb) and excellent beef, both from the famous butchers McGeoughs of Oughterard; fresh fish and seafood, including lobster thermidor, is another house favourite and many a guest wouldn’t dream of ordering anything but the roast half duckling à l’orange.
Good desserts and friendly, efficient service all help make this one of the area’s most popular restaurants. An interesting wine list includes some classics and well-chosen house wines.
Check their website for recession-busting intitiatives, which range from discounts on wine to a free taxi home.
The Dunnes also run the lovely deli, gift shop and café, "Enjoy" and "Enjoy More...from White Gables", next door.