Love a mesmerising view but not willing to compromise on the quality of the food? These five restaurants excel at both …
From lakeside dining to sea views with crashing waves and woodland wonderlands, these Irish restaurants are special for many reasons, but the locations and spectacular views really shine. Here are our top five Irish restaurants with stunning views to visit this year.
The Europe Hotel & Resort, Killarney, Co Kerry
The Europe Hotel just outside Killarney is situated in a very special location indeed. Perched on the shores of the Killarney Lakes, the views over the water are uninterrupted and soothing to say the least. The Brasserie is just one of three dining options with killer views, along with Riva and the aptly named Panorama Restaurant. The Brasserie and Riva offer a more relaxed dining experience, while Panorama is slightly more formal. Each offers breathtaking views while The Brasserie boasts a stunning terrace for long lunches (pictured above) and Panorama Restaurant has its own dedicated cheese menu, instantly making it my kind of restaurant. www.theeurope.com
The Winding Stair, Ha’penny Bridge, Dublin 1
The Winding Stair does many things well. The décor exudes timeless charm with stripped wood tables and floors and Bentwood chairs, while the food is decidedly Irish with a modern twist. Think ultimate comfort food with dishes like Doyle’s hand-smoked haddock poached in milk with onions and white cheddar mash or Young Buck blue cheese and cauliflower bake. Food aside, the views are quintessentially Dublin with huge windows flooding the room with light and affording views over the Ha’penny Bridge and across the Liffey with the Dublin cityscape dominating the background. The combination of food, atmosphere and stellar views is enough to make you wistful about being a Dubliner. www.winding-stair.com
O’Gradys on the Pier, Barna, Co Galway
So many awe inspiring views in Ireland are water adjacent which is hardly a surprise given that we are an island, and O’Grady’s on the Pier in Barna is no different. With expansive views over Galway Bay, there is nothing quite like an afternoon in O’Gradys gorging on Irish seafood while gazing into the seemingly endless horizon. The fish and chips is excellent and in the winter months, the roaring fire is both atmospheric and, well, warming. www.ogradysonthepier.ie
The Cliff House Hotel, Ardmore, Waterford
Another waterside location, The House restaurant at The Cliff House Hotel is unique in many ways. Head chef, Roisín O’Connor is leading a new and dynamic young kitchen team at the helm of this elegant coastal retreat. The main focus here is sourcing exceptional local and seasonal produce, supporting local farmers, suppliers and artists, and creating simple yet modern food which reflects the naturally beautiful setting of the hotel and surrounding area. And what a setting. Crashing waves, uninterrupted coastal views and twinkling lights on the horizon after dark, this is a restaurant with a truly stunning vista. It helps that the food is excellent too and The House holds a Michelin star in recognition of its spectacular food and service. www.cliffhousehotel.ie
The Wicklow Escape, Ballinclea, Donard, Co Wicklow
Nestled in the Wicklow mountains, The Wicklow Escape is surrounded by an abundance of woodland and greenery on all sides, meaning there are wonderful views, whatever way your gaze drifts. The cosy, foodie lodge recently launched a brand new Sunday experience: ‘Sunday at the Escape’ features a menu of moreish wood-fired dishes with family-friendly options to be enjoyed on the covered outdoor pavilion, accompanied by live music amid all the flora and fauna that the so-called ‘Garden of Ireland’ has to offer. This casual al fresco dining option will run every Sunday until the end of September and to support the restaurant’s sustainable ethos, diners must pre-book their food when reserving their table, thus ensuring that the venue only orders the produce required and contributes to zero waste. Win win. www.thewicklowescape.com
