Seeking Destination Restaurants in Ireland
Returning to Ireland after several years so I'm certain much has changed. I'm looking for restaurants that are considered , regardless of price, to be worth the trip for the sole purpose of dining there. I'm thinking of places like French Laundry in Yountville, CA ; Willows Inn on Lummi Island, WA and Fat Duck in Bray. Is Ballymaloe House still considered such a destination? Thank you so much for all your help
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Cliff House Hotel in Ardmore, Co Waterford is an excellent hotel in a great location on the water with its michelin-starred restaurant a bonus.
Chapter One in Dublin is a Modern Irish gem and their chef's table in the kitchen is a must on a fine dining Irish trip!
What has changed in recent times is the surge in value dining around Dublin and the rest of the country - especially the Michelin Bib Gourmand establishments and the many cafes and pubs upping their food game.
Ballymaloe is an icon in the scene here and if you like the experience of country house hospitality, it's not to be missed. The other hotels in 'the Blue Book' are a treat too with Gregan's Castle in Co Clare and Rathmullen House in Donegal two of my favourites. -
Destination restaurant? Try to get to John Desmond on Heir Island http://islandcottage.com/ - but be aware that they close for winter.
The food is all locally sourced and John is a classically trained chef in the French tradition who brings creative skills to a very remote part of the world - if you get there, your meal will be memorable.
Otherwise, the rather obvious but impeccable Guilbaud's in Dublin should be on your list. There you are best not to have regard for prices.
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