An 18th century hostelry in the small village of Donaghmore, Ciaran and Vicki McCausland's appealing pub is the centre of the local community - but, since Ciaran McCausland returned to his home county and took over the family business some years ago, the good food served has also been making it a destination for food lovers from well beyond the immediate area.
Simple decor is uncluttered - traditional tiled floor, darkwood furniture and cream walls, with bookcases adding interest – and pleasing to the eye, while the quietly efficient staff are neatly presented in traditional black aprons and very friendly, especially with children, helping to give that laid-back country feel.
Although there is no formal supplier list (and imports like the ubiquitous tiger prawn make a surprise appearance), chef Tommy Mangan's interesting and extensive menus change regularly and are liberally sprinkled with great local produce such as Strangford rope mussels, Portavogie mussels and Cloughbane beef.
The Brewer's House also manages to do something that's all too rare, in giving equal thought to both its vegetarian, vegan and children’s' menus. The vegetarian choices go far beyond the usual token dish, and the 'Little People's' menu, offering everything from a cup of chowder to homemade haddock fish fingers or pasta, and a choice of vegetables, is hugely welcome to parents wanting their children to eat more healthily.
Confidently simple, well cooked and attractively presented food is the style here
Staff are well versed in both the food and drinks; the personally selected wine list need make no apology for favouring the Old World and, as the pub's name suggests, there's a large international range of premium ales offered - from a Coniston Bluebird Bitter to the punchy, Brewdog 77 lager - and local craft brews get some representation.
This appealing and well-managed pub offers wholesome food, efficiently served in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere: the perfect balance for a country pub, and well worth a visit.
*ACCOMMODATION is available in a recently refurbished 18th century building, The Lower Houses, where there is a bar and seven smart self-catering units (three1-bedroom and two 2-bedroom apartments). They can be booked online at www.thelowerhouserooms.com, or email info@thelowerhouserooms.com for rates and availability. Minimum 2-night stay.
