A chic new casual dining destination in the grounds of Sheen Falls Lodge, the former stables have been stylishly converted to create an elegant restaurant and bar that's equally appealing for a casual get together or a special occasion.
Beautifully designed and spacious, the comfortably furnished interior has an all-year ambience, with a lovely terrace for summer dining and a cosy open fire in winter - and it makes an atmospheric venue for special occasions and events. The barbecue area features a stone oven, echoing the frontage of the building and, while the hustle and bustle of the busy stables may be long gone but there are reminders of the life that was once lived here - most obviously the equine sculpture that takes pride of place on the grass outside, and also in less obvious details such as the flooring which iincludes timber from the old stables.
As in the hotel, the policy is to use only seasonal ingredients sourced from local and other Irish artisanal producers, and there's a focus on sustainability and ethically sourced produce. Specialities include the hearty and deservedly popular starter of Thornhill Confit Duck Leg, with Savoy Cabbage, Lentils and Smoked Bacon and then, of course, that perennial favourite 'a good steak' - in this case The Stables Prime 8oz Fillet Steak served, in time honoured style, with Pepper or Bearnaise Sauce, Hand Cut Chunky Chips and Onion Rings, with Pickled Mushroom giving a nod to current trends. Fish and seafood features in dishes like Cromane Mussels (served as a main course with leeks, mmoked bacon and cider velouté) and Beer Battered Catch Of The Day, which comes with very traditional accompaniments of peas and tartare sauce - and there are moderately priced options like pizza, pasta and burgers too.
Desserts offer seasonal house variations on classics like panna cotta and crème brulée - and one of the advantages of having a full bar in the room means there's plenty of choice on the drinks front, including a good range of wines by the glass (some non-alcoholic), and local beers from Killarney Brewing and Tom Crean along with plenty of mainstream draught beers. Also vodka, gin and whiskey galore - and the Cocktail of the month is just omne of a variety of cocktails with a Stable twist.
All round The Brasserie is a lovely destination - and a carefully thought-out concept as an alternative to the main offering of the hotel, with plenty of appealing food and drink scenarios offtered for differerent times and occasions.
