DINING in Ireland’s county Longford

County Longford offers a varied dining scene that reflects its rich agricultural heritage and growing culinary reputation. Longford’s dining scene emphasises local produce, such as Herterich pork and Roscommon lamb, reflecting the county’s agricultural roots.

No Michelin-starred restaurants are currently in Longford, but Viewmount House and The Black Olive are noted for their high standards, approaching fine-dining excellence.

Fine Dining

These restaurants provide sophisticated dining experiences with high-quality ingredients, elegant settings, and exceptional service, often showcasing Longford’s local produce.

Viewmount House Restaurant (Longford Town). Located in the early-Georgian Viewmount House, this restaurant, led by Head Chef Gary O’Hanlon, is a standout on Ireland’s culinary map, featured on the Bridgestone list of the 100 best restaurants. The elegant dining room, surrounded by Japanese and formal gardens, offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. Diners can expect a four-course dinner (€53 per person) featuring artisan ingredients like Lissadell mussels, Clogherhead prawns, and Longford’s Herterich pork. The service is attentive, and the menu emphasises local, sustainable produce. Reservations are recommended.
ignature Dishes: Standouts include Tory Island cod with garden herbs, Longford Herterich pork belly with piccalilli, and duck leg with honey-roasted parsnip and Grand Marnier reduction, noted for their distinct flavors and beautiful presentation. Viewmount House is introducing a new tasting menu, focusing on foraged ingredients and local artisan produce, alongside an expanded wine list with Irish selections. Address: Dublin Road, Longford Town, Co. Longford, N39 N2K6
The Black Olive (Longford Town). Situated on Ballymahon Street, this contemporary restaurant, run by proprietor Fiona O’Keeffe, offers a fine dining experience with a lively, confident atmosphere. The stylish interior, with cream leather chairs and a shiny wooden floor, complements a menu that blends Irish and international flavors. Diners can expect high-quality dishes, attentive service, and a view of the open kitchen. It’s been voted Longford’s best restaurant, reflecting its culinary excellence. Highlights include rare-breed pork dishes and seafood specials like Clogherhead prawns, showcasing local sourcing and creative preparation. The Black Olive is introducing a chef’s table experience, allowing diners to engage with the kitchen team and enjoy new seasonal specials. Address: 32 Ballymahon Street, Longford Town, Co. Longford, N39 V2P9
The Longford Arms Restaurant (Longford Town). Located in the Longford Arms Hotel, this restaurant offers a fine dining experience in a sophisticated yet relaxed setting. The menu focuses on local ingredients, with a blend of traditional Irish and modern European dishes. The elegant dining room and attentive service make it ideal for special occasions or business dinners. Signature dishes include roast Roscommon lamb and pan-seared salmon, praised for their fresh, local flavors. The restaurant is launching a new Sunday brunch menu, featuring local produce and artisanal baked goods. Address: Main Street, Longford Town, Co. Longford, N39 KH58

Casual Dining

Casual restaurants in Longford offer relaxed atmospheres with high-quality food, blending local and international cuisines, perfect for everyday dining or group gatherings.

Vocella’s (Longford Town). A local favorite, Vocella’s offers a warm, cozy atmosphere with a menu of Italian and Irish dishes. The relaxed setting, combined with friendly, attentive service, makes it ideal for families or casual nights out. Diners praise the consistent quality and welcoming vibe, with a focus on fresh ingredients. The basil chicken and sharing starters, like smoked chicken and Thai veg rolls, are highlights, noted for their delicious flavors and presentation. Vocella’s is introducing a new pizza menu, featuring organic sourdough bases and local toppings. Address: Main Street, Longford Town, Co. Longford
The Rustic Inn (Abbeyshrule). A charming gastro-pub in the picturesque village of Abbeyshrule, The Rustic Inn offers a casual dining experience with a focus on hearty, homestyle dishes. The warm, rustic atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot for locals and visitors. The menu emphasises local produce, with generous portions and great value. Popular dishes include roast beef with Yorkshire pudding and homemade burgers, praised for their quality and flavor. The Rustic Inn is expanding its outdoor seating area, offering a scenic dining option along the Royal Canal. Address: Abbeyshrule, Co. Longford, N39 X0H6
Luigi’s Italian Restaurant (Longford Town). A family-friendly Italian restaurant offering a casual dining experience with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The menu features classic Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients, complemented by a cozy setting ideal for groups or date nights. The staff are noted for their friendliness. Standouts include creamy carbonara and wood-fired pizzas, with the Margherita being a local favorite. Luigi’s is launching a new vegan pasta menu, catering to plant-based diners. Address: Main Street, Longford Town, Co. Longford
The Wooden Spoon Cafe (Lanesborough). A welcoming cafe and restaurant in Lanesborough, offering a casual dining experience with a focus on homemade dishes. The homely, cozy atmosphere and excellent service make it a great spot for lunch or a relaxed meal. Diners can expect fresh, local ingredients and a family-friendly vibe. The chicken burger and homemade soups are highly praised, served with artisan bread. The Wooden Spoon is introducing a new evening small-plates menu, featuring local cheeses and charcuterie. Address: Ballyleague, Lanesborough, Co. Longford
The Market Bar (Longford Town). A lively gastro-pub offering a casual dining experience with a focus on quality pub grub. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make it a popular spot for locals and visitors. The menu features a mix of Irish classics and modern dishes, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. The beef noodle stir-fry and gourmet burgers are favorites, noted for their bold flavors. The Market Bar is introducing live music evenings, enhancing the casual dining experience with local entertainment. Address: Main Street, Longford Town, Co. Longford
Torc Cafe (Longford Town). A stylish cafe offering a casual dining experience with a focus on homemade dishes and artisan products like chocolates, preserves, and cakes. The pleasant, welcoming atmosphere and quick service make it ideal for breakfast or lunch. Diners praise the cozy setting and high-quality food. The chocolate mocktail and berry sorbet are highlights, alongside hearty sandwiches and crepes. Torc Cafe is expanding its range of vegan baked goods, catering to plant-based diets. Address: New Street, Longford Town, Co. Longford, N39 V2P9
Aubergine Restaurant (Longford Town). Located in the Longford Shopping Centre, Aubergine offers a casual dining experience with a modern, eclectic menu. The relaxed, contemporary setting is perfect for families or group gatherings, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and friendly service. The Thai veg rolls and smoked chicken starters are popular, noted for their fresh flavors. Aubergine is introducing a new cocktail menu, featuring drinks inspired by local produce. Address: Unit 1, Longford Shopping Centre, Longford Town, Co. Longford

Budget Dining

Budget-friendly restaurants in Longford provide affordable, tasty meals in laid-back settings, ideal for quick bites or casual outings.

Golden Garden (Longford Town). A popular Chinese restaurant offering budget-friendly dining with a focus on authentic flavors. The cozy, no-frills setting is perfect for families or takeaway lovers, with quick service and generous portions. Diners praise the homemade chips and consistent quality. The Wasabi dishes and crispy duck are favorites, known for their delicious taste and great value. Golden Garden is introducing a new budget-friendly lunch special, offering set meals at reduced prices. Address: Main Street, Longford Town, Co. Longford
Spice India (Longford Town). A budget-friendly Indian restaurant offering a variety of flavorful dishes in a relaxed, welcoming setting. The menu caters to diverse tastes, with affordable prices and quick service, making it a go-to for curry lovers in Longford. The chicken curry and vegetable korma are highly rated, noted for their rich spices and fresh ingredients. Spice India is launching a new takeaway loyalty program, offering discounts for regular customers. Address: Main Street, Longford Town, Co. Longford
Skelly’s Bar & Restaurant (Ballymahon). A traditional pub offering budget-friendly meals in a cozy, community-oriented atmosphere. Located in Ballymahon, it’s a great spot for hearty, affordable dishes with a focus on local produce. The friendly service and relaxed vibe make it ideal for casual dining. Homemade lasagne and fish and chips are popular, served with hand-cut fries. Skelly’s is introducing a new weekday lunch deal, offering discounted meals for quick dining. Address: Main Street, Ballymahon, Co. Longford, N39 R9F7
The Coffee House (Granard). A charming, budget-friendly cafe in Granard offering homemade breakfasts, lunches, and baked goods. The cozy setting and friendly staff make it a great spot for a quick coffee or light meal. Diners can expect fresh, local ingredients at affordable prices. Freshly baked scones and hearty sandwiches are menu staples, paired with aromatic coffee. The Coffee House is introducing a new range of vegan pastries, catering to plant-based diets. Address: Main Street, Granard, Co. Longford, N39 K4PO
Drumlish Cafe (Drumlish). A budget-friendly cafe in Drumlish offering a range of homemade dishes in a relaxed, homely setting. The menu includes breakfasts, sandwiches, and light meals, with a focus on value and quality. It’s a great spot for locals seeking a quick, affordable bite. The homemade soup and artisan sandwiches are highlights, offering great value. Drumlish Cafe is expanding its takeaway offerings, with new grab-and-go options for busy diners. Address: Longford Road, Drumlish, Co. Longford, N39 A2H6

Dining in Ireland

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Award winning restaurants

County Longford:

Ireland’s county Longford offers a peaceful blend of history and countryside, with the Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre showcasing an ancient Iron Age road. The county’s St Mel’s Cathedral in Longford town provides architectural beauty, while the River Inny offers opportunities for kayaking and fishing. Other attractions include the rolling farmlands and historic Ardagh village. Longford is Ireland’s fourth smallest county by size and second smallest by population (46,751). Population peaked at 115,491 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 28,250 in 1971. In terms of hospitality, Longford is Ireland’s 32nd most visited and Ireland’s least visited tourist county with around 22,000 international visitors per year.

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