If it’s not served from a trolley with dramatic flourish, it’s not for me. Bring on the Crêpes Suzette and Irish coffees …
The Champagne Trolley: Ashford Castle, Co Mayo
For many, a visit to Ashford Castle is the dream and dining at George V restaurant is the pinnacle of that dream. The stunning Waterford Crystal chandeliers and panelled walls provide the perfect backdrop to chef Liam Finnegan’s food. Ending the meal with a cheese course, served from a table side trolley, is the perfect finale. There is also the option of choosing a beef course (for two), also carved table side. Did I mention the champagne trolley? As if I needed another reason to visit. I mean, if it’s good enough for Joan from Mad Men (aka Christina Hendricks, who says it’s one of her “‘favourite places on earth”), then it’s good enough for me.
The Irish Coffee: Chapter One, Dublin 1
One of Ireland’s best dining experiences, the food at Chapter One has garnered legions of loyal fans over the years. Yes, Mickael Viljanen’s cooking is outstanding and the clamour for tables does mean sourcing a reservation can often feel like an Olympic sport. That said, one of the most memorable parts of dining here is the after-dinner table side Irish coffee which has its very own fan base. The coffee is prepared on a copper pan using Jameson (stout edition) whiskey, a touch of which is flambéed table side before the coffee is added, then more whiskey before the concoction is seamlessly poured into a glass and topped with cold cream. You won’t regret it.
The Roast Beef Trolley: Dunraven Arms, Adare, Co Limerick
There is little as good in this world as a traditional roast, and at The Maigue Restaurant in beautiful Adare, it’s a spectacular treat. Carved table side on a gleaming mahogany and silver trolley, the beef (cooked to your liking) is served with homemade horseradish sauce, red wine jus, plus a host of traditional accompaniments. Finish your meal with a generous portion of warm apple crumble and retire fireside with the paper, and digest. The roast beef trolley is also available on the dinner menu, but for us it’s all about the Sunday lunch.
The Martini Cart: The Sidecar, The Westbury, Dublin 2
Possibly one of the best cocktail bars in the country, an ice cold drink in The Westbury’s glamorous 1930s-style bar is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Watching the masters at work is a theatrical treat for the senses and redefines the entire martini experience. Whether you choose a vesper (shaken with both gin and vodka), a gibson (garnished with a pickled onion), wet (more Vermouth) or dry (less Vermouth), these martinis might just be the best in the city. While you’re there, pick up a copy of the Dublin Unfiltered cocktail book to conjure up your favourites at home.
Oysters & Champagne: Lir, Coleraine Marina, Co Londonderry
Lir has been very on-trend in the last few years. It started with a stunning review by Jay Rayner in The Guardian, followed by an appearance on BBC’s The One Show, plus a feature in US publication Postcards. The oyster and champagne trolley is another reason to add Lir to your list (if you’re anything like me, you have a list). Oysters and bubbles are served table side with a choice of condiments (buttermilk espuma and wild garlic oil anyone?). The oysters are Foyle Bia Mara Speciales which take between 24 and 36 months to reach maturity, during which time they are attended to by hand by local oyster producers.
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