Dining in a Michelin Star restaurant is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
As much as I joke about people having "notions", there is something so special about a fine-dining meal. I love everything about a fancy meal; the preparation - putting on the glad rags, looking over the menu with excitement, the waiter explaining each ingredient on the plate to you before you dig in and tasting flavours you never even knew existed.
It really is an incredible experience.
Of course, dining Michelin-standard can be pricey and this can often turn people off, but there are actually a few really good value eats across Ireland.
All of the restaurants below have been awarded a Michelin star:
Loam, Galway: Three Courses For €55
Coming in as our best value Michelin Star restaurant on the list, Loam has more than just that reason to tempt you.
The popular eatery has become an institution in Galway city, winning and retaining its Michelin star since 2016 and being considered one of the best restaurants in the world.
The restaurant is a stone’s throw from Eyre Square and boasts an incredible interior and tantalising dishes.
Ox, Belfast: Six Courses For £60
If you’re heading up to Belfast for a romantic weekend or a special occasion, this is the spot for you.
With experience gained in the Michelin starred kitchens of Paris including the 3-star Taillevent, owner Stephen uses his imagination and creativity to bring exciting ingredients to your plate. Each dish is thoughtfully designed so every element on the plate has an integral role in showcasing the best quality and local produce.The riverside setting offers an excellent backdrop to your meal.
Campagne, Kilkenny: Three Courses For €60
Located in the beautiful medieval town of Kilkenny, Campagne is the ultimate fine dining experience. Guided by the seasons and its produce, their inspiration comes from regional France and its cuisine.The restaurant is run by head chef Gareth Byrne, formerly of Chapter One, so you know it's going to be good.
Restaurant Chestnut, Cork: Six Courses for €60
One of the newest Michelin-starred restuarants to make the list, Restaurant Chestnut in Cork needs to be on your bucket list.
The intimate 18-seater venue, set in a former pub in West Cork, has foodies across the country talking.
Restaurant Chestnut's menu is inspired by nature and is ever-evolving. It includes local herbs, flowers, vegetables, meat and fish that's sourced, picked, grown and foraged from West Cork and the surrounding countryside.
EIPIC, Belfast: £70 For Tasting Menu
Alex Greene began his cooking career in the Michelin starred Deanes in 2007. From there, he went on to work in Petrus by Gordon Ramsay, Claridge’s by Gordon Ramsay and The Cliff House in Ardmore, all Michelin starred establishments.
For the past two years, he has been working in Deanes EIPIC delivering the freshest and most seasonal produce cooked to perfection. Expect subtle flavours created using predominantly local, seasonal produce of the finest quality, delicately prepared and perfectly presented.
Lady Helen, Mount Juliette: €75 On Thursday Nights For Tasting Menu
This internationally-themed menu consists of dishes made using local ingredients, including many from their own kitchen garden, herb garden and farm.
Chapter One, Dublin : Four Courses For €80
Chapter One couldn’t not be on this list. Top class food, made to stun eyes and shock tastebuds. This place is truly special.
Special occasion coming up? Sure look, you're sorted!
