Little Fish

Eva Caulwell and Tom Mullan brought an enviable reputation with them when they opened this charming restaurant on the main street of Cleggan, in 2022. Both had hospitality experience in some Dublin hotspots, including The Old Spot where Tom may be remembered front of house - but they made their names in Connemara in 2021 with Baidin at The Boat Club in Clfden, a go-to casual destination for great food and service that was soon followed by the beginnings of Lttle Fish - a food truck at Letterfrack pier - and, in no time at all it seemed, followers were delighted to find them at this super little spot in Cleggan .

Even iIf you weren't looking for it, the cheerful cottagey frontage and come-on-in seating area out front would draw you in, and the simple decor and welcoming staff makes everyone feel at home.And when it comes to the food, there are no gimmicks. There's a short menu with daily changing specials (usually 3 each at lunchtime and in the evening, possibly including Cleggan Crab Claws, Killary Mussels and Achill Island Smoked Mackerel Ceasar Salad) and, with local suppliers, proudly credited, you'll know that the ingredients don't have to come too far.

Specialities are the simple 'food truck' dishes they brought with them from Clifden and Letterfrack - the super fresh and far-from-ordinary Lobster rolls and fish & chips that fans will happily travel for. But the little things hint at finesse ('snacks & sides' kick off with smoked almonds for example, and there are hand cut Irish chips - such a small word, Irish, but it says a lot). The focus is on local fish but there are vegetarian/vegan options too - there's calamari or tofu spicebag, for example, and Buffalo tempura prawns can be made with cauliflower instead.

Popular sweet treats to end (ice-cream cookie sandwich, chocolate chip cookies or brownies, affogato) and a carefully curated drinks menu that includes a dozen or so wines (predominantly white, European) well suited to the menu, also cocktails, craft beers and hot drinks including coffee by Geometry Roasters in Tuam, Co Galway. Lovely service too - professional and very friendly - and the prices are reasonable.

All round a super spot - build it into your schedule when taking the Inishbofin ferry just a few yards ar way, perhaps, or make a special visit on your next Connemara holiday.