The spot in the centre of Ireland has a whole lot to offer
Athlone is an ideal staycation destination, handily located, with plenty to do, beautiful scenery and a vibrantly emerging food scene which champions the incredible produce from the midlands. If you are setting your compass and heading to the dead centre of Ireland you won't be disappointed, from neighbourhood staples to vibey new breweries, a whole lot is going on in Athlone at the minute:
6. Bacchus
Custume Pier Appartments, more info here
So named after the ancient Greco-Roman god of wine and parties, it's unsurprising that the spot on Custume Pier has a European/Mediterranean-inspired menu. Despite being a pretty big, airy and modern room there are plenty of intimate and cosy spots to sit and enjoy the great views of the Shannon and the tourism centre outside. There's a small but distinct menu, with dishes that have an incredible level of detail and a zeal for creativity thrown in.
5. The Fatted Calf
Unit 1, Athlone Town Centre, more info here
Opened way back in 2010, The Fatted Calf is run by a husband and wife team Feargal and Fiona O'Donnell in that time they've placed an incredible emphasis on finding the best, fresh, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients from the midlands. Modern Irish fare, with some very creative fusion and taste profiles, the service and presentation here are undoubtedly some of the best around.
4. Il Colosseo
6 Northgate Street
Reasonably priced classic Italian fare, served by very polite, personable and efficient staff that are well able to deal with even the largest of tables. It's recommended to book before you head in, as it's such a buzzy spot that's constantly ticking over with customers. It's got a cosy and relaxed atmosphere with a bright and airy dining room- worth the steps up to it! Get a pizza from here, you absolutely won't regret it.
3. Dead Centre Brewery
Custume Pier Appartments for more info click here
The aptly named brewery has beautiful views of Athlone Castle and the Shannon below, with a great outdoor area for the warmer climes of the Summer months. Naturally, there is an incredible beer selection, made up of their own and other indie brands from across Ireland and the rest of the world. The team mainly focus on their pizzas, with some dogs, wings and avo on toast thrown in for good measure.
2. Wineport Restaurant
Glasson, more info here
Set in Wineport Lodge, the fancy hotel a bit outside of Athlone town, Wineport is worth the drive out. Set on the beautiful Lough Ree, most people will be familiar enough with the spot as it was the set for the popular TV show The Restaurant for several years. A modern contemporary menu led by seasonality and the availability of local produce, it's recommended to order from the specials board. It's a menu that invariably has several starters and mains that you want on it, and is varied enough to appeal to even the pickiest of eaters. With a wine list that was given the time and dedication worthy of a four-star hotel, the bar staff also whip up some quality cocktails if you fancy a bit of a woo-woo!
1. Thyme Restaurant
Custume Place, more info here
It's difficult to look past Thyme Restaurant when trying to pick somewhere to eat in Athlone. The Michelin-listed riverside eatery serves up some incredible modern Irish complex seasonal produce-led dishes. The set menu is incredible value for money, with great variety, and presentation of ingredients. There's a great atmosphere and attentive service which undoubtedly enhances the experience. This place has plenty of good reviews/hype about this spot but it undoubtedly lives up to it!
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