A gem to seek out in the pretty riverside village of Ramelton, The Blue Goat is the creation of Lifford man Des Gallen - an artisan food devotee whose culinary claims to fame include cheffing at the late lamented Dublin destination Gruel, little sister of The Mermaid Café.
Des has been at the forefront of the (too) recent restoration work that is gradually transforming the town’s historic river frontage and he has achieved what many have dreamed of here - and in the original McDaid’s building, no less, where bottles of Donegal minerals including the iconic Football Special once rattled along the production line.
Features of the iconic building including the old flagstone floor have been retained and there’s now a stylish high-end deli showcasing local produce and artisanal products (a bespoke cheese chamber is a special feature), along with a range of pastries, wines, chocolates and confectionery.
Outside, Cloudpicker coffees, teas and deli treats are served at a small seating area
But it doesn’t end with the food. The Blue Goat is also a place for fresh flowers, handcrafted gifts, art and occasional music sessions upstairs.
And there's accommodation too, in beautifully tranquil thoughtfully designed waterfront apartments.
Ever-evolving, The Blue Goat always offers a sense of discovery. Magic.
