DINING in Ireland’s county Louth

County Louth known for its rich history and coastal charm, offers a vibrant dining scene that showcases local produce and diverse culinary influences.

Louth’s dining scene emphasises local seafood, particularly Carlingford oysters and Clogherhead prawns, reflecting its coastal location and agricultural heritage.

No Michelin-starred restaurants are currently in Louth, but Scholars Townhouse and Fitzpatrick’s Restaurant are noted for their high standards, approaching fine-dining excellence.

Fine Dining

These restaurants offer sophisticated dining experiences with high-quality ingredients, elegant settings, and exceptional service, emphasizing Louth’s local seafood and produce.

Scholars Townhouse Hotel Restaurant (Drogheda). Housed in a historic former Christian Brothers monastery, this family-run restaurant, awarded two AA Rosettes for culinary excellence, offers a refined fine dining experience. The elegant dining room, steeped in over 150 years of history, combines a warm atmosphere with professional service. Diners can expect meticulously crafted dishes using local ingredients, such as produce from Armada Farm, 3.5km away, and a selection of fine wines, craft beers, and signature cocktails. Ideal for special occasions, it’s a cornerstone of Drogheda’s dining scene. Highlights include roast lamb with garden herbs and pan-seared scallops, showcasing Louth’s coastal and agricultural bounty. Scholars is introducing a new tasting menu, featuring seasonal specials and foraged ingredients from the Boyne Valley, alongside an expanded cocktail menu with local inspirations. Address: King Street, Drogheda, Co. Louth, A92 ED71
Fitzpatrick’s Restaurant (Dundalk). Located in Fitzpatrick’s Bar & Restaurant, this fine dining venue offers an upscale experience with a focus on modern Irish cuisine. The elegant yet cozy setting, with attentive service, makes it perfect for romantic dinners or celebrations. The menu emphasises local seafood and meats, paired with a curated wine list, delivering a sophisticated dining experience in Dundalk. Standouts include Carlingford oysters with shallot vinaigrette and slow-cooked beef with herb jus, celebrated for their fresh, local flavors. Fitzpatrick’s is launching a chef’s table experience, allowing diners to engage with the kitchen team and enjoy exclusive seasonal dishes. Address: Rockmarshall, Jenkinstown, Dundalk, Co. Louth, A91 A3Y1
Bayview Restaurant (Carlingford). Set in the picturesque village of Carlingford with views across the lough to the Mourne Mountains, Bayview, part of the Carlingford House, offers a fine dining experience in a charming 18th-century setting. The menu highlights local seafood and produce, with a focus on sustainability. Diners can expect a warm, elegant atmosphere and impeccable service, ideal for a memorable meal. Signature dishes include Carlingford lobster and Duncannon smoked salmon, paired with homemade soda bread. Bayview is introducing a new wine-pairing dinner series, featuring Irish and European wines to complement its seafood-focused menu. Address: Newry Street, Carlingford, Co. Louth, A91 PK68

Casual Dining

Casual restaurants in Louth provide relaxed settings with high-quality food, blending local and international flavors, perfect for everyday dining or group outings.

The Bay Tree (Carlingford). A well-loved restaurant in Carlingford, The Bay Tree offers a casual dining experience with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. The menu blends modern Irish and European cuisines, emphasizing local seafood and produce. Friendly service and a relaxed vibe make it ideal for families or casual nights out, with a reputation for consistency and quality. Popular dishes include seafood chowder with Carlingford oysters and roast duck with orange glaze, noted for their fresh ingredients. The Bay Tree is expanding its outdoor dining terrace, offering scenic views of Carlingford Lough for al fresco meals. Address: Newry Street, Carlingford, Co. Louth, A91 YW63
The Glyde Inn (Annagassan). Located on the coast near Annagassan, The Glyde Inn is a charming gastro-pub offering a casual dining experience with a focus on local seafood and hearty Irish dishes. The traditional setting, with a cozy fireplace and sea views, creates a welcoming atmosphere. Diners praise the friendly service and fresh, flavorful food. The seafood platter, featuring Carlingford prawns and mussels, and the homemade steak pie are crowd-pleasers. The Glyde Inn is introducing live music evenings, enhancing the casual dining experience with local entertainment. Address: Annagassan, Co. Louth, A92 X540
D’Vine Bistro (Drogheda). Situated in Drogheda, D’Vine offers a casual yet stylish dining experience with a Mediterranean-inspired menu. The warm, modern interior and attentive service make it a great spot for date nights or group gatherings. The menu features fresh, local ingredients, with a focus on seafood and meats, complemented by an extensive wine list. The pan-fried hake and slow-cooked lamb shank are highlights, praised for their bold flavors and presentation. D’Vine is launching a new small-plates menu, perfect for sharing and showcasing seasonal Louth produce. Address: Dyer Street, Drogheda, Co. Louth, A92 XH29
The Weavers (Drogheda). A popular gastro-pub in Drogheda, The Weavers offers a casual dining experience with a lively, community-oriented atmosphere. The menu blends traditional Irish dishes with modern twists, using local ingredients. Diners can expect hearty portions, friendly service, and a cozy setting, ideal for families or casual meals. The southern fried chicken burger and homemade lasagne are favorites, noted for their delicious taste and generous portions. The Weavers is introducing a new vegan menu, catering to plant-based diners with creative dishes. Address: Dominic Street, Drogheda, Co. Louth, A92 P2Y7
Monasterboice Inn (Monasterboice). A family-run restaurant near the historic Monasterboice site, this inn offers a casual dining experience with a warm, traditional atmosphere. The menu features Irish classics and international dishes, with a focus on local produce. It’s a great stop for tourists exploring Louth’s heritage or locals seeking a relaxed meal. The roast beef with Yorkshire pudding and seafood chowder are highly praised for their hearty, comforting flavors. Monasterboice Inn is expanding its outdoor seating area, offering a scenic dining option for warmer months. Address: Monasterboice, Co. Louth, A92 K6P2
Bruno’s Italian Kitchen (Dundalk). A cozy, family-friendly Italian restaurant in Dundalk, Bruno’s offers a casual dining experience with a focus on authentic Italian flavors. The warm, inviting atmosphere and attentive service make it ideal for groups or date nights. The menu features fresh, local ingredients where possible, with a variety of pastas and pizzas. The wood-fired Margherita pizza and creamy carbonara are local favorites, noted for their authenticity. Bruno’s is introducing a new dessert menu, featuring Italian classics like tiramisu with a local twist. Address: Park Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth, A91 YW98
The Spotted Dog (Termonfeckin). A charming gastro-pub in Termonfeckin, The Spotted Dog offers a casual dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The relaxed, rustic setting and friendly service make it a great spot for families or those exploring Louth’s coast. The menu blends Irish and international cuisines. The fish and chips, featuring fresh local catch, and the beef burger with homemade relish are highlights. The Spotted Dog is launching a new Sunday brunch menu, featuring local produce and creative dishes. Address: Main Street, Termonfeckin, Co. Louth, A92 T2P7

Budget Dining

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

Moorland Cafe (Drogheda). A beloved cafe in Drogheda, Moorland is renowned for its bakery and budget-friendly meals. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere and quick service make it a go-to for breakfast or lunch. Diners can expect homemade dishes and baked goods, with a focus on value and quality. It’s a must-visit for locals and tourists. The potato hash and freshly baked scones are highlights, paired with barista-style coffee. Moorland is introducing a new range of vegan pastries, catering to plant-based diets. Address: South Quay, Drogheda, Co. Louth, A92 VY68
Shake Dog (Drogheda). A budget-friendly diner offering American-style fast food with a focus on quality and value. The lively, casual atmosphere is perfect for families or quick meals, with a menu featuring burgers, shakes, and fries. Diners praise the fresh ingredients and friendly staff, making it a popular takeaway spot. The Shake Dog burger and strawberry milkshake are favorites, noted for their generous portions and taste. Shake Dog is launching a new budget-friendly combo meal deal, offering discounts for quick dining. Address: North Quay, Drogheda, Co. Louth, A92 W8Y0
Joe’s Chipper (Drogheda). A classic fish and chip shop in Drogheda, Joe’s offers budget-friendly meals with a focus on freshly cooked, traditional fare. The no-frills setting and quick service make it ideal for takeaway or a casual meal. Diners love the authentic, crispy chips and friendly vibe. The scallop and fish and chips are staples, known for their fresh, local seafood and real potatoes. Joe’s is introducing a new loyalty program, offering discounts for regular customers. Address: West Street, Drogheda, Co. Louth, A92 K7P3
The Bare Food Co. (Dundalk). A budget-friendly cafe in Dundalk offering healthy, homemade dishes in a relaxed, modern setting. The menu focuses on fresh, local ingredients, with options for breakfast, lunch, and light bites. The friendly staff and affordable prices make it a great spot for a quick meal or coffee break. The roast vegetable salad and homemade quiche are popular, paired with artisan coffee. The Bare Food Co. is expanding its takeaway offerings, with new grab-and-go sandwiches and salads. Address: Park Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth, A91 C9K4
The Little Strand Cafe (Clogherhead). A charming, budget-friendly cafe in the coastal village of Clogherhead, offering homemade dishes with a focus on local seafood and produce. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere and affordable prices make it a great stop for tourists or locals seeking a quick, tasty meal. The sea views add to the relaxed vibe. The crab sandwich and homemade scones are highlights, featuring fresh Clogherhead seafood. The Little Strand Cafe is introducing a new summer pop-up menu, featuring seafood specials and outdoor seating. Address: Main Street, Clogherhead, Co. Louth, A92 P8Y6

Dining in Ireland

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Award winning restaurants

County Louth:

Ireland’s county Louth is a county of historic depth and coastal beauty, with Drogheda’s St Peter’s Church housing a historic shrine and the Boyne Valley offering ancient sites like Newgrange, a UNESCO-listed passage tomb just over the border in county Meath. Carlingford’s medieval streets and castle provide scenic walks, while Dundalk’s coastal paths add natural allure. Other attractions include the Cooley Peninsula’s hiking trails. Louth is Ireland’s smallest county by size (821 sq km) and 17th largest by population (139,703). Population peaked at 128,240 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 63,665 in 1926. In terms of hospitality, Louth is Ireland’s 21st most visited tourist county with around 108,000 international visitors per year.

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