These are the dining experiences we would have suggested for US President Joe Biden and his entourage to visit while in Ireland for a taste of irish cuisine and hospitality
BELFAST
Flout! Pizza
Americans love pizza, right? It is widely agreed that some of the best pizza in Northern Ireland, or indeed Ireland, is being made by Peter Thompson and his team at Flout! slice shop in Belfast. Sadly, for President Biden et al, the now famous slice shop is on holiday this week but a slice from Flout! might just be worth fuelling up Air Force One in the future. There are a range of pizza styles on offer, Grandma, Detroit, Chicago and New Jersey to name but a few and each day there is something different on the menu. Shaved fennel and roasted beet pizza? You would be crazy not to. www.flout.pizza
Mourne Seafood Bar
Chowder, scallops, langoustines, squid and mussels; all the seafood heavy hitters can be found at Mourne Seafood Bar in Belfast, and that’s just the starters (or appetisers?). When it comes to mains, the crab spaghetti with shellfish cream would be a serious contender for me, but then again, a whole fish of the day can usually sway me, depending on the mood.www.mourneseafood.com
LOUTH
The Glyde Inn, Annagassan
Another prime seafood spot, The Glyde Inn at Annagassan would have been the perfect pit stop for the President and his companions to try some world famous Carlingford oysters during his visit. There is also an abundance of lobster, crab claws, razor clams or Irish beef to choose from, all to be enjoyed in a stunning waterside location on the Louth coast with views over the Cooley and the Mourne Mountains. www.theglydeinn.ie
MAYO
Savoir Faire
This tiny daytime wine bar, bistro and deli is serving up some of the best food in the country in a relaxed setting and with charming Gallic flair. The pâté en croute changes daily and a recent dish of salmon with wild garlic oil, beurre blanc, rainbow chard and asparagus was simply stunning. The selection of Irish cheeses is suitably comprehensive and served with delicious house made baguette. Adding a glass (or two) of wine is optional, but recommended. @savoir_fare
An Port Mór
Another Mayo gem, An Port Mór is a Westport institution and it shows. A buzzy spot with charming staff and a varied menu featuring an array of Irish produce, there is a lot to love and a room full of tourists on our recent visit appeared to agree. The treacle bread to start is dangerously moreish, the crab and apple salad zingy and fresh and the not to be missed Basque cheesecake is as light and fluffy as a cloud. www.anportmor.com
DUBLIN
Anna Haugh at The Conrad
With just one week left of UK based chef Anna Haugh’s Irish pop up, this should have been an obvious choice for the US President to sample a taste of Irish fine dining before his departure. The rumour mill is awash with speculation that he stayed at The Conrad while in Dublin, so it makes sense that he should try out a menu based on ‘A Taste of Ireland’. Each element of the 7 course menu features a wealth of Irish produce, including cheese from Co Cork, salmon from Co Clare, duck from Co Cavan and Co Kerry beef. www.annahaugh.com