Whether you’re craving a countryside feast or seafood on the coast …
The ticket of the season: Ballymaloe House, East Cork
Ballymaloe House is teaming up with Tindal Wines for an exclusive wine dinner on May 29. It’s one of those golden evenings where everything is aligned: superb wines, a sublime menu and a setting that’s pure old-world charm. Expect five seasonal courses from executive chef Dervilla O’Flynn, paired with wines handpicked by Rhône winemaker Simon Tyrrell, including pours from his own vineyard Les Deux Cols. The menu includes Wexford scallops, slow-roasted pork confit from Ballymaloe’s farm, and the kind of chocolate tart that doesn’t ask for attention, it demands it. Simon will share stories from his winemaking adventures, making this the perfect mix of educational and fun (in a wine-soaked way). www.ballymaloe.ie
A chic countryside escape: The Mustard Seed, Ballingarry, Co Limerick
I can now count myself as one of the many admirers of The Mustard Seed and this is a dreamy time to go. Set in a peach-toned country house surrounded by walled gardens and wildflowers, chef Angel Pirev is known for his generous, well-executed dishes. Enjoy classic consommé brunoise, monkfish with garden-grown herbs, and silky panna cottas that wobble just right. The service is warm, the rooms are charming and the wine list doesn’t disappoint. Ideal for a romantic night away or a solo recharge with good food and a book. www.mustardseed.ie
Posh plates in an unexpected place: Bearú, New Ross, Co Wexford
New Ross might not have been on your culinary radar … until now. Tucked inside a lovingly renovated space, Bearú is giving strong “If Copenhagen and Wexford had a lovechild” vibes. The menus are unfussy and quietly sophisticated, with a focus on local ingredients and considered flavours. It’s modern, stylish, and the kind of place you can pop in to for a spontaneous breakfast, lunch or dinner and leave feeling like you’ve discovered a little secret. Word is spreading, so get in while it still feels like a hidden gem. www.bearu.ie
Sweet bakes: Rua, Castlebar, Co Mayo
Rua is celebrating 30 years in business this year, so we’re raising a fork to that. This beloved family-run spot has long been flying the flag for local produce and honest-to-goodness Irish cooking, with a menu that balances comforting classics and creative plates. Pop in for lunch, stock up on goodies from the deli or linger over a slice of cake and a genuinely good cup of coffee. They do the simple things really well, which is its own kind of magic. www.caferua.com
For seafood by the sea: Salty Buoy, Skerries, Co Dublin
‘Tis the season because Salty Buoy is back! A clever little seafood truck from the team behind The Seafood Cage and Sustainable Seafood Ireland, you’ll find all their tasty treats parked up by the sea in Skerries Sailing Club. While it’s casual, don’t be fooled. The cooking is slick, sustainable and full of big, briny flavour. The menu includes classic fish and chips or crab rolls, which bodes well for a summer of salty goodness. It’s picnic-table dining at its best and a great excuse for a day trip north of Dublin. www.saltybuoy.ie
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