Ciara McQuillan finds cosy pubs to hide out in…
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VAUGHAN’S ANCHOR INN, LISCANNOR, CO CLARE:
THE AMBIANCE Don’t be fooled, a visit to Clare should not just be a summer expedition. I can think of nowhere better to spend a rainy afternoon than perched fireside at Vaughan’s in Liscannor. An old-school bar at the front leads into an elegant dining room with the most mesmerising fish tank I have ever seen. ON THE PLATE Three generations of the Vaughan family have been on the pots and pans since the doors opened in 1979. Today, third-generation James Vaughan is head honcho in the kitchen, with dad Denis looking proudly on. The menu is filled with sustainably sourced local seafood and the wine list is pretty special too. Don’t skip the steamed, then triple-fried chips. Or the excellent value Champagne flights. WHAT ELSE? The Vaughan family also run Vaughan’s on the Prom in nearby Lahinch and Spooney’s Ice Cream Parlour with its excellent ice cream next door.
Vaughan’s Anchor Inn, Liscannor, Co Clare, 065 708 1548; www.vaughans.ie.
THE COACH HOUSE, ROUNDWOOD, CO WICKLOW:
THE AMBIANCE An original coaching house that dates from 1820, the dining room at The Coach House is the perfect combination of country chic with subtle, modern touches. It’s a cosy, comfortable spot where you could easily while away an afternoon. ON THE PLATE The menu is filled with seasonal specials and modern comfort food dishes. There is beef and red wine pie, a Coolea cheese, caramelised onion and spinach tart, and my pick of the menu, the cheesy croque monsieur. The children’s menu is great value at €12 which includes a main course followed by a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a glass of Wicklow apple juice. WHAT ELSE? Make a night of it and book to stay overnight in one of the comfortable guest rooms with antique rugs, premium linens, and towels and robes from The White Company.
The Coach House, Roundwood, Co Wicklow, 01 233 6010; www.thecoachhouse.ie.
OLDE GLEN BAR, CARRIGART, CO DONEGAL:
THE AMBIANCE It would be difficult to find a more atmospheric pub in Ireland than Olde Glen Bar. Dating from the 1700s, it’s a modest dwelling that reveals a charming traditional interior, popular with both locals and those making the pilgrimage to sample the menu at the Michelin-recommended restaurant. ON THE PLATE Fermented potato bread with bacon and Gortahork cabbage, roast Mulroy Bay scallops with fennel cream, pickled grapes, caper and raisin, and St Tola goats cheese agnolotti are just some of the modern Irish dishes you can expect to see on the menu. Head chef Ciaran Sweeney and his team hand-pick the best quality, locally sourced seasonal produce, and it shows. WHAT ELSE? For a lighter bite, try Bia Box at the back of the bar, for toasties, salad boxes and quiche. Clara’s Cots at the Olde Glen offers five rooms for those who want to extend their evening into a sleepover.
Olde Glen Bar, Carrigart, Co Donegal, 083 158 5777; www.oldeglen.ie.
GUY’S BAR, CLIFDEN, CO GALWAY:
THE AMBIANCE Starting its journey in hospitality as Clancy’s Bar over a century ago, the interior of Guy’s features open fires, intimate snugs and cosy corners, making it the perfect place to hide away on a cold winter day. ON THE PLATE Primarily a seafood bar, you will find Guy’s daily specials displayed on blackboards – they vary according to season or the day’s catch. Carnivores and vegetarians are equally considered with locally sourced beef, a selection of vegan and vegetarian options and homemade pizzas all making an appearance on the menu. Young diners are well looked after too. WHAT ELSE? Guy’s hosts regular trad music sessions in the bar for those who fancy continuing the fun and frolics and if you plan on staying overnight, the team behind Guy’s also offers several lodging options.
Guy’s Bar, Main Street, Clifden, Co Galway, 095 21130; www.guysbarclifden.com.
FX BUCKLEY AT RYAN’S PARKGATE STREET, DUBLIN 8:
THE AMBIANCE A beautifully restored Victorian bar, Ryan’s of Parkgate Street is one of the most famous pubs in Dublin, pulling pints since 1886. Original features include traditional snugs, gas lamps, the bar itself and the 130-year-old clock above the bar, that has historically always been set ten minutes fast to ensure customers don’t miss their trains from nearby Heuston Station. The pub is polished and authentic without a hint of twee. ON THE PLATE The genius coupling of Ryan’s and FX Buckley was a match made in heaven. Throw the cocktail menu from Bar 1661 into the mix and even the most hard-to-please lunch companion could not fail to be impressed. On the menu you will find a selection of excellent FX Buckley steaks, but sitting at the bar with a bowl of excellent chowder or a chicken pie with creamy mash is one of life’s simple pleasures. WHAT ELSE? For a more formal experience, book a table upstairs in the newly refurbished restaurant (pictured above right) where you can enjoy even more FX Buckley delights.
Ryan’s Victorian Bar, Parkgate Street, Dublin 8, 01 677 6097; www.thebuckleycollection.ie.