County Sligo is known for its rugged coastline, beautiful beaches and breathtaking mountain views. There’s little that compares to the scenery in Yeats’ Country. It’s steeped in history and has any amount of activities, whether you’re a local or a tourist. But there is much more to Sligo than just its natural beauty. Foodies will rejoice in the amazing offerings throughout the county. It’s got a diverse range of restaurants, from fast food to fine cuisine, from traditional to exotic and everything in between.
Sligo’s location means that restaurants have access to the best ingredients, be it seafood, dairy or local fruit and veg. So, whether you’re in the mood for something casual with the kids or a romantic evening with your significant other, there’s something to suit everyone. Without further ado, here are our top five restaurants for foodies in County Sligo.
5. The Waterfront House and Restaurant, Enniscrone
Located in the small seaside town of Enniscrone, the Waterfront House and Restaurant truly is a hidden gem. Though it is part of a hotel, don’t let that put you off, as the food here is nothing short of excellent. From pastrami sandwiches and beetroot gnocchi to milkshakes for dessert, there is something to satisfy everyone here, and even the pickiest of children are sure to be happy with the somewhat varied children’s menu. The windows overlook the picturesque Enniscrone beach, which provides the perfect way to relax while sipping a glass of wine from their extensive drinks menu.
Address: Cliff Rd, Carrowhubbuck South, Enniscrone, Co. Sligo, Ireland
4. Montmartre, Sligo Town
Tucked away on a quiet street in Sligo Town, Montmartre offers an elegant yet intimate dining experience. It serves the winning combination of French food made with local Irish ingredients. The broad menu offers meals that are fresh, flavourful and beautifully presented. Set menus are available every evening and are rather inexpensive; a three-course meal with tea or coffee will set you back less than €40. And what’s more, the extensive wine list, divided by the French region, means there’s a glass to complement every meal perfectly. Montmartre provides such a relaxed evening you can (almost) feel like you’re in the French Riviera. Bon Appetit!
Address: 1 Market St, Abbeyquarter North, Sligo, Ireland
3. Eala Bhán, Sligo Town
‘Eala Bhán’ (‘white swan’) is aptly named for a restaurant situated at the edge of the Garavogue river, where you can sit and watch the swans ramble past. But the view isn’t the only thing that’s impressive about this multi-award-winning restaurant. The food is classic and straightforward, yet has just enough creative quirks to make it uniquely delicious. There is a significant emphasis on locally sourced and organic ingredients, with the menu changing in line with the seasons. They serve lunch and dinner, as well as a delicious three-course early-bird menu from 5pm – 6:20pm, for the excellent value of €24.95 a head.
Address: 5 Rockwood Parade, Abbeyquarter North, Sligo, F91 YX52, Ireland
2. The Draft House, Strandhill
Located a short drive from Sligo, in the beautiful seaside town of Strandhill, The Draft House is a must for any Sligo-based foodies. This gastropub is casual and comfortable, and the food is delicious. Think traditional pub grub but with a creative twist. The chefs use locally sourced ingredients in their full range of lunch and dinner dishes. From seafood chowder to beef burgers with pulled pork, there’s something to suit everyone – along with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. If you’re thirsty after all that delicious food, choose something from the diverse drinks menu to help you wash it all down.
Address: Shore Rd, Carrowbunnaun, Strandhill, Co. Sligo, Ireland
1. Coach Lane Restaurant @ Donaghy’s Bar, Sligo Town
If you want a relaxed dining experience with excellent food, look no further than the award-winning Coach Lane in Sligo Town. Though a bit pricier than the others on the list, it’s still relatively inexpensive for the high quality of the food, which is cooked to perfection and beautifully presented. The range of meat, seafood and vegetarian options is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. The Tomahawk steak for two is a firm favourite and is served with an optional sauce, sides and a bottle of wine. As well as a la carte, there are some set menus and a bar menu, so there’s something to suit everyone. The staff is welcoming and attentive, which only adds to the all-around excellent dining experience.
Address: 2 Lord Edward St, Abbeyquarter North, Sligo, Ireland
