In a spectacular location overlooking the safe swimming beach and pier at Cahore Point, and with sweeping views over the sea to Wicklow Head, The Strand Cahore is ony 15 minutes from Gorey - and just an hour from Dublin. Dating back to 1893, The Strand is the only pub in Cahore. It had been run by the Horgan family since 1939 and its recent history is interesting. It was taken over by Aileen and Patrick Hanley in 2018 in a move that fulfilled a long-held ambition for the couple, who are well known in Irish hospitality and took pride in serving the very best of Irish produce in this landmark bar and restaurant - and also at The Lansdowne Hotel in Kenmare, Co Kerry, which they bought in 2024 but it had already had close associations, having previously belonged to Patrick's family. And so it was very apt coincidence that Greg and Emma Whelan should become the new owners of The Strand Cahore in December 2025 - Greg grew up in The Strand, so his story is the very same as Patrick's coming back to The Lansdowne.
And, with its large windows making the most of the gorgeous view, outdoor seating for fine weather, a cosy and atmospheric bar with a glowing stove for chilly days, and an elegant formal restaurant at the back, it's a lovely place to enjoy splendid seasonal food and local drinks. Bernie Finn, the wonderful Head Chef and Manager and all of the team have remained in situ, so the food philosophy, good cooking and friendly service are unchanged.
Produce is drawn mainly from the southern half of the country - Kerry, Cork, Wexford and Wicklow - with suppliers all named on the menu, and Bernie's dedication to doing things right extends to making their own breads, sauces, dips, pâtés and desserts daily in-house.
Although the menu is well balanced, The Strand quickly gained a reputation for outstanding seafood. Small plates could include, for example, Moules Mariniere (Glenbeigh Mussels served in a white wine cream), for example, or Cahore Smokies (Smoked haddock, cherry tomatoes, chives and crème fraiche finished with melted Wexford Cheddar cheese) both served with homemade breads. Tempting salads may include Kilmore Quay Smoked Salmon Salad (Mixed leaves salad served with Kilmore Quay smoked salmon, caper berries and roasted beetroot purée), and seafood lovers will find it hard to resist a whole or a half Kilmore Quay lobster in season.
Many fans travel to The Strand especially for their seafood, but meat lovers should be well pleased too - and may be surprised to find that locally reared Macamore Buffalo is a speciality (and they lay claim to being the only establishment in the country to use buffalo for stock for their Jus!). All of which makes the Macamore Buffalo Burger a must-try - served on a brioche bun with homemade apple chutney, O’Neill’s bacon and Knockanore cheddar cheese, it's a real taste of the South-East.
There are plenty of good things for the kids too, including homemade spaghetti bolognese or trio of mini buffalo sliders – with cheese, with bacon, and plain - or Cornfed breaded chicken with creamy mashed potato.
The staff are lovely and there's a full bar of course, where you'll find the local craft drinks including beers and cider, and also a number of Irish gins and vodka.
So, there's something for everyone and then some at The Strand - and that terrific view as well.
