Live like a princess …
The internet certainly has a lot to answer for. One woman’s recent viral checklist about navigating the intricacies of a dinner date with her husband and her expected “princess treatment” certainly had tongues wagging. Not speaking to, or making eye contact with, the host in a restaurant? Sad, but often true, unfortunately. Expecting your husband to order for you? Whatever floats your boat. For me personally, swap the roses for roasties, the door opening for a deep dish, and I will likely be hooked. Feeling the need for a luxe lunch? Here’s where to go when you want to be treated like royalty, without being OTT. After all, aren’t we all worth it?
Chapter One, Co Dublin
Michelin-starred and meticulously choreographed, Chapter One is where grown-up glamour meets culinary theatre. You’ll be met with linen, low voices and a menu so poetic that you’ll want to frame it. Mickael Viljanen’s food is bold, beautiful and precision-crafted, but it’s the feeling of being utterly taken care of that elevates the experience. Courses arrive like curated gifts, the wine pairings are perfect and you’ll sail home, convinced someone should probably write a novel about you. @chapteronebymickaelviljanen
The Oak Room, Adare Manor, Co Limerick
Entering The Oak Room is like stepping into a real-life fairytale, complete with wood-panelled grandeur, soaring chandeliers, and linens so starched your granny would be envious. Chef Mike Tweedie’s Michelin-starred tasting menu is an homage to Irish produce, served with stately flair. The staff strike the perfect balance of warm and polished, and you’ll feel like a minor royal who’s wandered in for dinner between second-tier engagements. If ever there was a place to lean into your soft life fantasy, it’s here. @theadaremanor
George V Dining Room at Ashford Castle, Co Mayo
If you’re going full princess-mode, Ashford Castle is your palace. The George V Dining Room is so grand that you’ll feel underdressed, even in your best guna. Think Waterford Crystal, frescoed ceilings and a breakfast buffet that has main character energy in itself (there’s even a juice sommelier. I repeat, a juice sommelier!). Dinner here is a masterclass in fine dining with flair, where even the bread course feels ceremonial. The service is calm and intuitive, and you’ll be sipping something chilled before you realise you’re thirsty. If you stay the night, a fireside turn-down and footman-level care await. Glass slippers are entirely optional. @ashfordcastle
The Pullman, Glenlo Abbey, Co Galway
Ever dreamed of dining aboard a 1920s train carriage, without the risk of motion sickness or murder-mystery mayhem (which I actually adore)? The Pullman is your ticket. Two original Orient Express carriages have been meticulously restored and parked on the grounds of the stunning Glenlo Abbey, serving up vintage glamour in spades. Recently appointed head chef Angelo Vagiotis and his team certainly have people talking with his skillful cooking and commitment to terroir. Prepare for silverware, starched linen and service that feels like you’ve just been awarded the lead in an Agatha Christie film adaptation. If there was ever a time to don your lariat and beaded brain binder, this is it. @glenlo_abbey
Ballyfin Demesne, Co Laois
If Jane Austen was online, she’d be tagging Ballyfin with #blessed. Set in a Regency mansion at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, it’s opulence without the attitude. Guests are indulged with an elegant meal in a dining room straight out of Bridgerton, complete with candlelight and silver service. The menu is seasonal, lavish and utterly soul warming, with dishes such as lobster tail with shellfish foam and caviar, and the aptly named Louis XV with hazelnut dacquoise, caramel ganache and coffee Chantilly. For the full cosplay experience, plan to stay overnight and arrive early to indulge in lunch when you arrive. After all, afternoon naps were invented to break up meals, right? @ballyfindemesne
SEE MORE: A Food Obsessive’s Culinary Wishlist Around Ireland