Philippe and Sabine De Mey’s beautiful Georgian property enjoys a stunning waterside location at the head of Dunmanus Bay, and it is a wonderful place to eat – and to stay.
Everything revolves around the courtyard, which has been beautifully restored with cobbled paths, shrubs and flowers, and its 250-year old stone outbuildings have been converted to make four stylish suites or small apartments that are offered for self-catering or B&B.
Each one is totally individual (one large one has an open fire and is particularly appealing for a family, or for longer stays); they are furnished in very different but equally dashing styles - and there is also a self-catering cottage for eight in the grounds.
Rooms 4 (suites); children welcome (under 2s free in parents’ room, cot available free of charge, baby sitting arranged). B&B from €75 pps, ss €30. No dogs.
Restaurant:
Lofty, stone-walled and black-beamed, the restaurant has great character, with a magnificent chandelier as the central feature, and impressive gilt-framed family portraits on the walls.
Fans will be delighted to know that after a short absence, when the restaurant was leased, Philippe and Sabine are once more offering the wonderful food and service that this stylishly atmospheric restaurant is known for: their unique table d’hote dinner begins with the renowned buffet starter display, which is followed by a wide choice of meat and fish dishes simply cooked on the wood-fired grill.
Local cheeses are still offered, of course, but a (very generous) combination dessert plate has been introduced to replace the once-famous display on the grand piano.
Other than that, returning fans won't find too many changes and Philippe is usually front of house, working alongside a friendly and hospitable team.
The carefully chosen, mainly European, wine list is quite extensive and includes half a dozen champagnes and sparkling wines, a fair choice of half bottles and some organic wines. There is also a non-alcoholic treat which is not listed - the house elderflower cordial, which is one of the best to be found anywhere in Ireland.
Seats 85 (private room, 45); Restaurant D Tue-Sat, 6-9.30pm; set D €58 (2-course option €45); house wine from €20, SC discretionary. Children welcome (high chair); reservations required. Closed Sun (except bank hol weekends), Mon & house closed 2 Jan - 17 Mar. Diners, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.
