DINING in Ireland’s county Donegal

Donegal’s food scene thrives on its Wild Atlantic Way location, with fine dining venues like Olde Glen and Castle Murray emphasizing local produce. Casual restaurants like Nancy’s Barn and The Harbour leverage Killybegs seafood, while budget options focus on hearty, affordable fare, often in pub or café settings..

Fine Dining

The Lemon Tree Restaurant (Letterkenny, Co Donegal). A family-run, Michelin Guide-listed restaurant since 1999, The Lemon Tree offers a modern, relaxed fine dining experience along the Wild Atlantic Way. Diners can expect a warm atmosphere with a focus on local, sustainable produce, meats, and fish from Donegal, paired with local beers, whiskeys, and gins. Ideal for special occasions or foodie travelers seeking refined yet approachable cuisine. Expect dishes like Killybegs seafood or grass-fed Donegal beef, emphasizing local flavors. The Lemon Tree will introduce new seasonal tasting menus or expand its local beverage pairings, capitalizing on its long-standing reputation and Donegal’s food tourism growth.
Olde Glen Bar & Restaurant (Glen, Co Donegal). Dating back to the 1760s, this Michelin Guide-listed restaurant offers a fine dining experience in a bustling, historic pub with a Parisian bouillon-like buzz. Chef Ciaran Sweeney’s dishes, served in a fabulous dining room, focus on local produce like Gortahurk cabbage and Mulroy Bay mussels. Perfect for those seeking a high-end yet authentic Donegal experience. Fermented potato bread with bacon and Gortahurk cabbage, baked Atlantic cod with smoked Mulroy Bay mussels, and black forest tartlette are highlights, known for their depth of flavor. Featured in the 2026 101 Great Irish Restaurants guide, Olde Glen will introduce new dishes showcasing foraged ingredients or expand its wine list, maintaining its off-the-beaten-track charm.
Castle Murray House Restaurant (St. Johns Point, Killybegs, Co Donegal). Overlooking Donegal Bay, this fine dining restaurant, led by Head Chef Remy Dupuy since 1994, offers a high-quality experience with a passion for local produce. The elegant setting and stunning views make it ideal for romantic dinners or special occasions. Diners can expect meticulously crafted dishes using Killybegs seafood and local meats. Expect fresh Killybegs lobster, crab, or oysters, reflecting Donegal’s pristine tidal waters. Castle Murray will introduce new seafood-focused tasting menus or sustainability-driven dishes, building on its reputation for quality.
Cedars Grill Restaurant at Harvey’s Point (Lough Eske, Donegal Town, Co Donegal). Located at Harvey’s Point Hotel, Cedars Grill offers a fine dining experience with a theatre-style open kitchen and magnificent views across Lough Eske. The menu features expertly prepared local seafood from Killybegs and meats from nearby pastures, served with top-tier personal service. Ideal for a luxurious dining escape. Expect Killybegs seafood platters or prime Donegal beef, emphasizing freshness and simplicity. Cedars Grill may enhance its open-kitchen dining experience with new chef’s table events or seasonal specials, aligning with Harvey’s Point’s gastronomic prestige.
The Seashell & The Glasshouse at Sandhouse Hotel (Rossnowlagh, Co Donegal). These two award-winning restaurants at the Sandhouse Hotel offer fine dining in splendid surroundings, with a focus on locally sourced cuisine. Chef John Robert McGarrigle’s 15 years of experience ensure high-quality dishes, served with traditional hospitality. Perfect for a refined meal with coastal views. Expect Killybegs oysters, mussels, or Donegal lamb, showcasing the region’s finest ingredients. The Seashell and Glasshouse will introduce new tasting menus or outdoor dining on the slate terrace, enhancing their coastal allure.

Casual Dining

Quay West Restaurant (Donegal Town, Co Donegal). A popular date-night spot on Quay Street, Quay West offers a casual dining experience with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is relaxed yet upscale, with a menu featuring steaks, pizzas, and seafood, ideal for couples or small groups. The owner’s warm hospitality adds to the charm. Reviews praise seafood experiences and juicy burgers, reflecting Donegal’s fresh produce. Quay West will expand its evening menu with new seasonal specials or vegan options, building on its reputation for quality dining.
The Harbour Restaurant & Bar (Donegal Town, Co Donegal). Located on Quay Street, The Harbour offers a casual dining experience with stunning views of Donegal Bay. The family-friendly menu includes daily seasonal specials, steaks, pizzas, and seafood, all using locally sourced ingredients. Diners can expect a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a laid-back meal. Steak on the Stone (8oz prime fillet with homemade chips and onion rings) is a signature, complemented by fresh Killybegs seafood. The Harbour will introduce new family or vegan dining experiences, enhancing its appeal for tourists and locals.
Nancy’s Barn (Ballyliffin, Inishowen Peninsula, Co Donegal). Housed in a 19th-century converted barn, this quirky bistro offers a casual dining experience with a focus on organic, local produce. The innovative menu and stunning Inishowen views make it ideal for families or foodies. Known for its world award-winning seafood chowder, it’s a must-visit on the Wild Atlantic Way. World Award-winning seafood chowder and home-baked Irish desserts like sticky toffee pudding are highlights. Nancy’s Barn will expand its organic menu or offer new chowder variations, capitalizing on its award-winning status.
Blas Restaurant and Café (Donegal Town, Co Donegal). Located at Gateway Lodge, Blas offers a family-run, casual dining experience with a 19th-century Drumcliffe house setting. The menu features homemade dishes, from Sunday brunch to hearty lunches, using local ingredients. The cozy decor and Best in Ireland Good Food Award (2017) make it a local favorite. Belgian waffles for breakfast and off-the-charts burgers are standout dishes, praised for their quality. Blas will introduce new brunch specials or outdoor seating, enhancing its family-friendly appeal.
Chandpur Indian Restaurant (Donegal Town, Co Donegal). This multi-award-winning Indian and Bangladeshi restaurant, run by chef Rana and Susan, offers a casual yet vibrant dining experience. The spacious setting and menu of classic and special dishes cater to diverse tastes, perfect for groups or families seeking international flavors. The Indian Railway Curry, inspired by chef Rana’s Bangladeshi roots, is a signature dish, known for its authentic flavors. Chandpur will expand its menu with new regional Indian dishes or vegan options, reflecting Donegal’s diverse food scene.
The Rusty Mackerel (Teelin, Co Donegal). A traditional Irish pub near Slieve League, The Rusty Mackerel offers a casual dining experience with live music and a great outdoor patio. Diners can expect superb traditional Irish grub in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, ideal for a relaxed meal after exploring the cliffs. Guinness stew and coddle are highlights, showcasing hearty Irish flavors. The Rusty Mackerel will introduce new pub specials or outdoor music events, enhancing its appeal for Wild Atlantic Way tourists.

Budget Dining

Blueberry Tea Room and Restaurant (Donegal Town, Co Donegal). A popular diner near The Diamond, Blueberry Tea Room offers a budget-friendly, casual experience with hearty, homemade dishes. The friendly, attentive service and traditional Irish foods make it ideal for sharing meals with family or friends. The lovely interior with small-paned windows adds charm. Homemade desserts like sticky cakes and jams are extremely delicious, paired with hearty mains like Irish stew. Blueberry Tea Room will introduce new budget-friendly specials or expand its dessert menu, maintaining its value-driven appeal.
Aroma Coffee Shop & Mini Bakery (Donegal Town, Co Donegal). This charming coffee shop in the heart of Donegal Town offers budget-friendly lunches, soups, sandwiches, and desserts in an artistic, relaxed setting. The excellent coffee and friendly staff make it perfect for a quick, affordable bite while exploring the town. Warm chicken and bacon salad and orange cake are highlights, praised for their deliciousness and value. Aroma may add new homemade bakes or lunch specials, enhancing its cozy, budget-friendly vibe.
Furey’s Diner (Donegal Town, Co Donegal). A no-frills diner offering hearty, budget-friendly meals, Furey’s is ideal for those seeking affordable comfort food. The laid-back vibe, fast service, and extensive menu of homemade burgers and pizzas make it a great spot for families or quick meals. Homemade burgers and pizzas are standout options, known for their hearty portions and reasonable prices. Furey’s will introduce new budget combo deals or seasonal specials, catering to its loyal local clientele.
The Food Hall at The Market House (Donegal Town, Co Donegal). This lunchtime café offers budget-friendly dining with gourmet salads, artisan breads, and homemade soups, wraps, and bakes. Located near The Diamond, it’s perfect for a quick, affordable meal with a focus on local ingredients. The casual setting suits solo diners or small groups. The Market House Special (posh banoffi) and gourmet salads are highlights, offering great value. The Food Hall will expand its daily specials or introduce new artisan sandwiches, aligning with Donegal’s food festival reputation.

Dining in Ireland

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Award winning restaurants

County Donegal:

Ireland’s county Donegal is a land of wild coastlines and Gaelic heritage, with Slieve League’s towering sea cliffs offering some of Europe’s highest coastal views. Glenveagh National Park features a historic castle and sprawling gardens amidst rugged mountains. The beaches of Bundoran and the traditional tweed workshops of Ardara make Donegal an engaging destination for nature and cultural enthusiasts. The Grianan of Aileach stone fort adds ancient intrigue and splendid views. Donegal is Ireland’s fourth largest county by size (4,830 square km) and 13th largest by population (167,084). Population peaked at 296,448 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 108,344 in 1971. In terms of hospitality, Donegal is also Ireland’s 13th most visited tourist county with around 199,000 international visitors per year.

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