2024 Award Winners FINE DINING HOTEL RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2024

House Restaurant, Cliff House Hotel Ardmore, Co Waterford

A bold modern boutique hotel overlooking Ardmore Bay, this chic five-star bolthole near Dungarvan has many strings to its bow, not least its setting. Tucked into the cliff beside the charming village of Ardmore, it overlooks Ardmore Bay and The Irish Sea. The Well Spa’s stunningly positioned outdoor infinity pool makes special use of the view, but so does the elegant fine dining Cliff Restaurant and the bar alongside it, which are both designed for maximum impact - and, in any case, it’s always been a place that draws guests as much for the culinary offerings as the setting. Chef Patron Tony Parkin took over the kitchen in 2022, with the aim of 'infusing House Restaurant's menu with a distinct global flair'. Flair it certainly has but seasonality remains king here, and the skilfully executed menus (choice of 5- or 7-course tasting) depend absolutely on the availability of fresh local ingredients - a celebration of Irish producers. Service is meticulous but there’s a slightly less formal ambience of late, which makes for a more relaxing meal. All round, this is an exceptional dining experience - and it offers value too.