The Pullman at Glenlo Abbey in Galway is open again, while The Wild Goose Grill in Dublin is closing, so treat yourself to a visit …
allta, Dublin
Food fans are in for a treat this month as allta and Niall Davidson host a series of collaborative events alongside some of Ireland’s finest culinary talent. The series of “four-hands” tasting menu dinners see Niall and a guest chef producing a locally sourced, multiple course dining experience. On March 12, head chef at Olde Glen Bar in Donegal takes the reins; the legend that is Assassination Custard takes over lunch on March 22; and head chef at Michelin-starred Chishuru in London takes the helm on March 26. Plus, you won’t want to miss the St Patrick’s Day tacos and trad party. In partnership with BMW, tickets are available at www.sevenrooms.com. www.allta.ie
SEE MORE: An Exclusive Event Celebrating The New BMW X3 At allta
The Winding Stair, Dublin
With the month that’s in it, there’s never been a better time to pay a visit for traditional Irish grub, while perched on the banks of the River Liffey. A Dublin institution, The Winding Stair is part bookshop, part restaurant, and wholly charming. Named after the Yeats poem, this literary gem was once a beloved haunt for bookworms before transforming into one of the city’s most celebrated dining spots. It’s cosy and atmospheric with rustic wooden floors, and a view that sweeps across the Ha’penny Bridge, while the menu is filled with dishes that champion Irish farms and fisheries. Their soda bread alone is worth the wait – thickly sliced, slathered in butter, and perfectly paired with a bowl of velvety seafood chowder. Go for a long lunch or a candlelit meal for a taste of old Dublin with a modern twist. The smoked haddock, poached in milk with onions and cheddar mash, is the ultimate comfort food. www.winding-stair.com
The Wild Goose Grill, Co Dublin
Get it while you can! With recent news of The Wild Goose Grill’s sad closure, one last hurrah is in order. Nestled above McSorley’s pub in the heart of Ranelagh, expect starched linens, weighty glassware, and a wine list so robust it should come with a warning. No gimmicks; just confident cooking with a distinctly French bistro lilt, all underscored by a reverence for top-tier Irish produce. Of course, goose makes multiple appearances and the cote de boeuf for two is a showstopper, carved tableside with all the appropriate pomp. It’s a loss for Ranelagh (and Dublin), so if you’ve never been, now’s the time. www.thewildgoosegrill.ie
The Pullman, Glenlo Abbey, Co Galway
Reopening its doors on March 1 to welcome diners back to what’s likely one of the most unusual dining spaces in the country, new head chef Angelo Vagiotis (formerly of Terre) has a tasting menu that’s a seven-course feast of Irish produce. Featuring dishes such as Kilkenny rainbow trout with beetroot and horseradish, turbot with Champagne, trompette mushroom and Connemara mussels, and mandarin sorbet with Micil Irish gin, it’s sure to be an irresistible combination in the remarkable refresh of the unique dining carriages. www.glenloabbeyhotel.ie
GOODHOOD, Cork
We’re becoming spoiled with the elevation of pizza in Ireland over the recent past. In Dublin, the latest must visit is Reggie’s in Rathmines, while in the nation’s other capital it’s GOODHOOD in Cork. With a selection of pizza and sharing plates cooked in a wood-fired oven, the please-all menu features everything from slow cooked pulled beef with crispy potato terrine and pecorino Romano to Ballycotton fish croquettes and spicy ‘Nduja pizza. The appeal of places like GOODHOOD is the low key, ‘popping in for a slice and a glass of wine’ casual, neighbourhood vibe. One for everyone in the audience, please! www.goodhood.ie
SEE MORE: 5 Pizza Joints In Ireland To Find The Perfect Slice
Franky’s Lasagneria and Parm House, Belfast
I’m sold on the name and currently planning a trip to Belfast to check out the carb laden goodies at Franky’s. Tucked inside the iconic John Hewitt bar, Franky’s specialises in slabs of heavenly lasagne. Purists might scoff, but I don’t count myself in that cohort. The choice of ‘primi’ features a range of deep-fried morsels such as lasagne bites, mozzarella stick and carbonara arancini, while for main courses choose between lasagne (regular or veggie), a chicken parm burger or a “big mac” and cheese. Sides include fries of all descriptions, with not a single slice of salad in sight! Booking is a must, and so is a nap afterwards. @frankys_lasagneria_belfast
We may earn a commission if you buy through affiliate links on our site.