what’s on the menu

“There is true wine in every garden,” goes the old Irish saying. In other words – the best things can be close at hand. Wherever we go, local food is a way to access a place and its people on a deeper and more intimate level.

Ballynahinch Castle

The historic Connemara jewel might boast leaping salmon and log fires but it’s coming to feel as if its gastronomic landscape is the big draw. Blame Head Chef David Bodas, whose influence is writ large across the classy Fisherman’s Pub, the Owenmore Restaurant with its sweeping riverside views, and the Garden Café seated within the hotel’s immaculately restored walled vegetable garden.

BOOKS AT ONE, LETTERFRACK

The prospect of fresh barista coffee and delectable homemade goodies, all served in the company of books, is ample justification to visit this café-bookshop in Letterfrack. Extra incentive, however, comes with knowing that husband and wife Vincent and Mary regularly host readings, signings, talks, and music sessions, as well as their other great trump card – At The Yard, a covered outdoor space and garden seating area.

Bridewell Brewery

A big chapter in Connemara’s slow-food revolution has been this craft brewery, Bridewell’s family of draught beers include the crisp Bridewell Blond, the smooth malty Bridewell Red and special limited-edition bottlings, all of which are brewed using Connemara water. What’s more, bars, hotels and supermarkets have embraced these hearty drops. Ask for Bridewell. www.bridewellbrewery.ie

Serving Great Locally Sourced Dishes Every Day

Connemara Hamper Delicatessen

Any foodie worth their salt will want to become acquainted with the Connemara Hamper. Small in size but packing a weighty culinary clout, this is a one-stop shop for fine produce (farmhouse cheeses, smoked meats and fish, artisan breads, wine, condiments, confectionary) as well as freshly prepared takeaway lunches. The best of everything from Connemara and beyond.

CONNEMARA SHEEP & WOOL CENTRE CAFÉ

Perched right on the lapping shores of Killary Fjord with its steep mountain walls, this café’s high-ceilinged octagon room looks out on to one of the most dramatic views you could ask for while having your coffee and cake. Home baking and decadent treats are a speciality here, but a robust lunch menu also offers up gourmet sandwiches, Killary mussels, and daily specials.

Connemara Smokehouse

You learn a thing or two about traditional seafood smoking after nearly half a century in the business. This will be apparent during a visit to the Connemara Smokehouse Factory Shop at Ballyconneely’s Bunowen Pier. It’s widely agreed that this family-run smokehouse produces the best wild and organic beechwood-smoked seafood in the region. Available from the Factory Shop, online or select local retailers.

Deli 19

A rustic-chic chillout zone amid the bustle of the town centre – that’s what this new arrival is promising, along with top-notch coffee, freshly baked pastries, all-day brunch and hearty lunches (dine-in or takeaway). Their lounge café just off the main town square is open from 8am and serves food until 3pm. This has all the makings of becoming a cherished part of the Clifden streetscape.