The shale and sandstone Cliffs of Moher are steeped in both geology and history, taking their name from an old promontory fort. Stand in O’ Brien’s Tower and you can see the Aran Islands in Galway Bay, the mountain ranges of Maumturks and Twelve Pins in County Galway, as well as the headland Loop Head in Country Clare. Look too for the Atlantic Puffins and razorbills!
Discover the culture of Ireland when you visit County Clare in the heart of the west coast of Ireland and on the Wild Atlantic Way. With the glorious UNESCO Burren and Cliffs of MoherGeopark, award winning Loop Head Peninsula, historic towns of Ennis, Kilrush, Killaloe, Bunratty and Ennistymon and splendid rivers and lakes of East Clare, County Clare provides an exciting choice of activities, attractions and year round festivals and events to keep you entertained.
This is one of the best seafood restaurants in Ireland in my opinion, ideally located along the Wild Atlantic Way. Dennis Vaughan is an award winning chef and if you’re looking for a fine dining experience with a laid back atmosphere this is the spot. The decor is maritime themed and it’s the perfect place to stop along the coast for a bite on a lazy summers day. My personal favourite is the seafood platter with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Heaven!
Situated in the heart of the Burren this little gem is the closest thing you’ll find to granny’s kitchen. A table of delicious homemade cakes greet you on arrival and the menu itself is full of wholesome and hearty bites. If you’re looking for that picturesque rural Irish cottage experience with a warm hot cuppa this is the spot. The perfect end to an activity packed day exploring the Burren.
Another gem along the Wild Atlantic Way is Johnny Burke’s Gastro Pub full of cosy corners, snugs and roaring fires. It’s an idyllic hide away on a winters day complete with a very impressive whiskey and craft beer selection. Feeling peckish after a brisk walk along the beach? The chicken wings are my favourite but there’s plenty to choose from and their unique take on the classic bacon and cabbage from the delicious bar menu is really fab! This is the type of place where time stands still!”
The Cloister Restaurant & Bar is situated in the heart of the medieval quarter in the historic town of Ennis. Since re-opening in 2012 the focus is one of doing simple things exceptionally well providing great food and attentive service. Food style is progressive modern Irish cooking, with the emphasis on local produce and this is complemented by a carefully chosen Wine List. Tapas every Thursday & Friday night has become a much enjoyed & welcomed addition.
Recommended by Lucinda O Sullivan’s great places to eat, Georgina Campbell Guides & Hot Press Best Restaurants Ireland 2015 & 2016.
If like most of us you love a good coffee you wont get much better than Suas Cafe in the heart of Ennis town. It’s the definition of hidden gem located on the top floor of CarraigDonn but boy is it worth venturing into the commercial Jungle for! The views of the town from the cafe itself are fab and apart from it’s world famous 3fe coffee, Suas boasts a pretty unique lunch menu too.
This is my favourite restaurant in Co Clare as much for the memories spent there as the incredible food and service. It’s a place I love to go with my family for special get togethers and the setting is so lovely and homely. Its the ultimate fine dining experience with a friendly and personable service. This is the type of place you book and make a night of it! Check in to Cullinan’s cosy B&B or the fab boutique Hotel Doolin just across the road and savour the experience!
Whether its a special family occasion or an incredibly romantic setting you’re after you wont get much better than the breathtaking castle elegance of Dromoland. From the moment you arrive, complete with all the bells and whistles (men make sure to wear jackets) this is a truly memorable experience. The food is delicious and local, the service is second to none and the setting is magical. This is the definition of a treat!
Located in the heart of the traditional music capital of Ireland Fitzpatrick’s Bar in Doolin is a hive of activity. From it’s signature seafood dishes to it’s regular “trad with a twist” sessions this is a must any time of the year! Compete with their very own “Dooliner” craft beer it’s one of my favourite haunts and whether it’s a night out with the gals/guys or date night with your nearest and dearest it’s sure to tick all the boxes.
This is a place I keep going back to. It was one of the first restaurants I discovered in Ennis and I’ve been a fan since. The food is always delicious. The atmosphere is great, complemented by Allen Flynn’s tasteful choice of artwork and background music. The portions are generous and there’s a lovely variety on offer. It’s a busy spot which says a lot. Ideal for any occasion.
This is one of my favourite for breakfast or lunch on the go. It’s one of the freshest deli counters in town and the baked goodies are deliciously homemade. My personal favourite is the Food Heaven healthy granola. The service is great and they are centrally located in town which is handy when running around.
The Wild Honey is a true inn, offering rest, relaxation, refreshment and good company. But good food is the main focus and deciding against opening a formal restaurant was a key decision, reflecting a wish to be seen as a pub offering high quality food in an informal setting.
Food Wed-Sun, D only 5-9pm. Rooms 14 (4 bath & overbath shower, 10 shower only, 3 ground floor, some family rooms, all no smoking). B&B from €40pps, ss €20. Children welcome.
In the Dining Room, our head chef David Hurley and his team serve creative and modern dishes using fresh, local ingredients like organic Burren lamb and game, and fresh Atlantic fish and shellfish. We’ve received many awards for our food including 3 Rosettes from the AA for “culinary mastery and excellence” and the RAI Restaurant of the Year Awards 2016 Best Chef.
Earl of Thomond is an award-winning restaurant of international renown. Elaborately decorated with oak wainscoting and other formal features it offers a relaxed but elegant dining experience featuring innovative cuisine served with tradition and a hint of creative flair. Every detail is attended to, from the use of locally sourced, quality-assured produce to customized wine recommendations from the sommeliers. A la carte, five-course table d’hôte and vegetarian menus are available.
L’Arco is a well established authentic Italian restaurant located off the main street of Ballyvaughan village, which is located on the mid point of the Wild Atlantic Way surrounded by the Burren district of County Clare.
All dishes are prepared by Italian chefs using the finest quality ingredients and sourced locally wherever possible. Everything is prepared from scratch in the kitchen – breads and starters, pasta and pizza right through to the desserts.
Awards:
‘Best Casual Dining’ in County Clare Award…
A restaurant that truly celebrates the joy of good food and the passion of those who prepare it! Shannigan’s Gastro Pub draws on Irish food producers who offer ethically produced, sustainable Irish produce – to offer you food of the highest quality in a creative yet traditional style. All menus reflect seasonality and there is plenty of variation on menus.
The gastro pub has a stunning interior that mixes the best of rustic and contemporary design to give an overall atmosphere that is sophisticated yet warm. Shannigan’s has just received an award for Best Newcomer in the Irish Restaurant Awards Munster Region for Clare, 2015 – a true testament to its quality of food and service.
The restaurant is also as interesting as it is delicious! Individual design features abound – from an extensive wine display and traditional snug to a feature fireplace.
