Unpack the winter woollies and welcome in soup season, autumn menus, hot drinks and cold weather comforts, in whatever form they take …
For a Fireside Seafood Supper: The King’s Head, Galway
It feels like a fitting time to mention the institution that is The King’s Head in Galway, given that it has just been shortlisted as a finalist for The Good Food Ireland Pub of the Year 2024. Add to that, The King’s Head was recognised as ‘SOUPerb for Sustainability’ in a recent nationwide competition to crown the best seafood chowder in Ireland. Accolades aside, this 800-year-old pub has long been recognised as a great place to eat in Galway, so go all out and order the award-winning chowder, the beef and Guinness stew, the Galway Hooker fish and chips or anything else on the soul-soothing menu. www.thekingshead.ie
For Casual Catch-Ups: Nomo Ramen, Dublin
What could be more comforting on a chilly evening than a comforting bowl of deeply rich and flavourful ramen? A notoriously complex and time-consuming dish to create, making ramen at home can be a wonderful project but, when you need to scratch that itch, Nomo Ramen is an excellent choice. There are a variety of ramen options available (including vegan), and the kimchi karaage bun with Japanese fried chicken, pickles, scallion and kimchi mayo a flavour bomb. www.nomoramen.ie
For a Seasonal Celebration: Uno Mas, Dublin
There is no bad time of the year to have dinner in Uno Mas, but dining in the warm, dimly lit room, alive with the buzz of happy diners is the most enjoyable escape on a blustery, autumnal night. The á la carte menu is served at both lunch and dinner; however, for dinner there is a minimum order of three dishes per person to include a main course. The menu changes slightly each day, but you can book in the safe knowledge that padrón peppers, potato and onion tortilla, and the salt-aged Delmonico steak will remain in their starring roles. www.unomas.ie
For the Ultimate Comfort Food: The Legal Eagle, Dublin
There is no doubt that The Legal Eagle is a great place for a cosy lunch or dinner, and the Sunday roast is among the best in the city. However, autumn and winter is when it comes into its own. The combination of the new comfy, gastropub-style interior is a winning one. A meal that begins with Pigs on the Green ham and Manchego croquetas; followed by slow-cooked venison pie with buttery mash, green and red wine sauce, or half roast chicken with roasted cauliflower cheese, brioche crumb, garlic and lemon cavolo nero and chicken juices, makes me weak at the knees. The perfect antidote to an October evening. www.thelegaleagle.ie
For the Autumn Sandwich Seeker: Daddy’s, Dublin
Breakfast, brunch or lunch – whatever your pleasure, Daddy’s is always a great choice for seasonal soup and a sambo. Think weekly specials such as this week’s spiced pear sandwich with Annascaul Black Pudding, Cashel Blue Cheese, walnut relish and McNally’s Organic Leaves with a side of coconut, ginger, squash and roast red pepper soup with a spiced cauliflower crunch. This is feel-good food that will appeal to most and the fan-favourite Turkish Eggs are always a great choice too. www.daddys.ie