DINING in Ireland’s county Meath

Meath’s proximity to Dublin and its rich Boyne Valley produce drive its dining scene, with fine dining venues like Brabazon and The Earl of Thomond emphasizing luxury. Casual spots like Aileen’s and Fifty50 blend innovation with accessibility, while budget options like Zucchini’s and Khyber Garden offer affordable, diverse fare.

Restaurants like Aileen’s and Brabazon prioritise local, sustainable ingredients with new foraged or zero-waste dishes, as seen in broader Irish trends.

Fine Dining

The Earl of Thomond at Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa (Dunboyne, Co Meath). Located at the luxurious Dunboyne Castle Hotel, The Earl of Thomond offers a relaxed yet elegant fine dining experience in an elaborately decorated setting with oak wainscoting and formal features. The award-winning restaurant features innovative cuisine with a contemporary twist on traditional favorites, using locally sourced Boyne Valley ingredients. Ideal for special occasions or romantic dinners, with attentive service enhancing the ambiance. Expect dishes like roasted Meath beef with seasonal vegetables or local seafood, reflecting the region’s premium produce. The Earl of Thomond will introduce new tasting menus or wine-pairing events, leveraging Dunboyne Castle’s reputation for superior hospitality and Meath’s food tourism growth.
Brabazon Restaurant at Tankardstown House (Slane, Co Meath). Housed in the stunning 18th-century Tankardstown House, Brabazon offers a fine dining experience with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients from the Boyne Valley. The elegant, historic dining room, led by Head Chef Andy Reid, is perfect for a luxurious meal, with dishes showcasing Meath’s agricultural bounty. Ideal for special occasions or foodie getaways. Pan-seared scallops with black pudding and Kilmore Quay cod with crab risotto are highlights, noted for their delicate balance of flavors. Brabazon will expand its estate-sourced menu or host new chef-led dining events, aligning with Tankardstown’s reputation as a culinary destination.
The Ivory Restaurant at Knightsbrook Hotel (Trim, Co Meath). An upmarket venue at Knightsbrook Hotel Spa and Golf Resort, The Ivory offers a fine dining experience with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The menu features traditional Irish and international dishes, crafted with Boyne Valley produce, served with flawless hospitality. Perfect for an evening of mouth-watering courses, with accommodations for dietary needs. Rxpect offerings like Meath lamb with herb crust or local seafood, emphasizing quality ingredients. The Ivory will introduce new seasonal tasting menus or wine dinners, enhancing its status as one of Meath’s top dining venues.
Scholars Restaurant at Scholars Townhouse Hotel (Drogheda, Co Meath). Housed in a former Christian Brothers monastery, Scholars Restaurant, awarded two AA Rosettes, offers a fine dining experience steeped in 150 years of history. The family-run venue in Drogheda is renowned for its award-winning food, featuring locally sourced ingredients in a beautiful, historic setting. Ideal for a refined meal with a warm, community feel. Expect dishes like Boyne Valley beef or local seafood, paired with fine wines or signature cocktails. Scholars will expand its wine list or introduce new seasonal specials, building on its culinary excellence and Drogheda’s foodie reputation.
Room 8 (Navan, Co Meath). Ranked fourth in Ireland’s fine dining category by Tripadvisor’s 2023 Travellers’ Choice Awards, Room 8 offers a sophisticated dining experience in Navan. The intimate setting and creative menu, using local Meath produce, make it ideal for special occasions or food enthusiasts seeking modern Irish cuisine. Expect innovative plates like Meath lamb with foraged herbs or Boyne Valley seafood, showcasing local flavors. Room 8 will introduce new tasting menus or participate in Boyne Valley Food Series events, capitalizing on its high ranking and Meath’s culinary growth.

Casual Dining

Aileen’s Restaurant (Drogheda, Co Meath). Aileen’s celebrates modern Irish food with a focus on sustainably produced, local ingredients, sourced from nearby Armada Farm (3.5km away) and Boyne Valley producers. The relaxed, welcoming setting in Drogheda is perfect for lunch or dinner, offering a taste of Meath’s rich culinary heritage. Ideal for families or groups. Expect dishes like Boyne Valley pork with seasonal vegetables or local seafood, emphasizing freshness. Aileen’s will expand its farm-to-table menu or introduce new vegetarian options, reflecting its commitment to sustainability.
Fifty50 (Ashbourne, Co Meath). Ranked eighth in Ireland’s fine dining category by Tripadvisor in 2023, Fifty50 offers a casual yet refined dining experience in Ashbourne. The vibrant atmosphere and creative menu, using Meath’s local produce, make it a popular spot for relaxed dinners or group outings, blending accessibility with quality. Expect modern Irish fare like Meath beef burgers or local fish dishes, known for their bold flavors. Fifty50 will introduce new craft beer pairings or seasonal specials, leveraging its high ranking and Ashbourne’s growing food scene.
The Signal Restaurant at Station House Hotel (Kilmessan, Co Meath). Once a train station, The Signal Restaurant offers a casual dining experience in a charming, historic setting at the Station House Hotel. The menu features locally sourced Boyne Valley ingredients, served in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed meal after exploring Meath’s heritage sites. Expect hearty dishes like Meath lamb stew or local seafood, reflecting traditional Irish flavors. The Signal will expand its outdoor dining or introduce new seasonal menus, enhancing its historic appeal.
Avenue Restaurant (Maynooth, Co Meath). One of Ireland’s best neighborhood cafés and restaurants, Avenue offers a casual dining experience in Maynooth with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The bright, welcoming setting is ideal for brunch, lunch, or dinner, attracting both locals and visitors with its unfussy yet flavorful menu. Rxpect brunch favorites like avocado toast or dinner options like Meath beef with seasonal sides. Avenue will introduce new brunch specials or expand its vegan offerings, aligning with Maynooth’s vibrant dining scene.
La Vida Restaurant (Ratoath, Co Meath). A pleasant surprise in Ratoath village, La Vida offers a casual dining experience with a contemporary menu featuring international and Irish dishes. The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere is perfect for families or date nights, with a focus on local Meath produce. Expect dishes like Meath beef steak or local seafood pasta, blending global and local flavors. La Vida will introduce new small plates or wine events, reflecting Ratoath’s growing culinary profile.
Tim Tang’s Restaurant (Ashbourne, Co Meath). A contemporary, busy restaurant in Ashbourne, Tim Tang’s offers a casual dining experience with a beautifully designed interior that feels urban yet welcoming. The Asian-inspired menu uses local ingredients, creating a unique fusion, perfect for a lively meal with friends or family. Expect Asian fusion like crispy duck with Meath-sourced vegetables or local seafood stir-fries. Tim Tang’s will expand its menu with new fusion dishes or host pop-up events, enhancing its modern appeal.

Budget Dining

The Monastery Inn (Clonard, Co Meath). A roadside pub in Clonard village, The Monastery Inn offers budget-friendly dining with traditional Irish fare in a cozy, community-focused setting. The hearty portions and friendly service make it ideal for a quick, affordable meal while exploring the Boyne Valley. Expect pub classics like fish and chips or Irish stew, featuring Meath ingredients. The Monastery Inn will introduce new daily specials or live music nights, boosting its local appeal.
The Conyngham Arms Restaurant (Slane, Co Meath). Located in the historic village of Slane, The Conyngham Arms offers budget-friendly dining in a traditional pub setting, just 35 minutes from Dublin. The menu features hearty Irish dishes using local Boyne Valley produce, perfect for a casual, affordable meal after visiting Slane Castle. Expect classics like Meath beef pie or local fish and chips, known for their value. The Conyngham Arms will expand its lunch specials or introduce new craft beer options, enhancing its tourist-friendly vibe.
Zucchini’s (Navan, Co Meath). A Hidden Gem in Tripadvisor’s 2023 Travellers’ Choice Awards, Zucchini’s offers budget-friendly dining in Navan with a focus on home-grown Meath produce. The casual, welcoming setting is ideal for families or quick meals, with a menu celebrating local ingredients at affordable prices. Expect dishes like Meath vegetable soup or local beef burgers, emphasizing freshness. Zucchini’s will introduce new seasonal specials or expand its vegetarian menu, reflecting its home-grown ethos.
Khyber Garden (Navan, Co Meath). Ranked third in Tripadvisor’s 2023 Hidden Gems category, Khyber Garden offers budget-friendly Indian cuisine in Navan. The vibrant, casual setting and flavorful menu make it a local favorite for affordable, authentic meals, perfect for groups or takeaway. Rxpect classics like butter chicken or lamb biryani, known for their rich spices. Khyber Garden will expand its vegan options or introduce new lunch deals, catering to Navan’s diverse tastes.

Dining in Ireland

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Award winning restaurants

County Meath:

Ireland’s county Meath is steeped in Ireland’s ancient past, with the Hill of Tara offering a glimpse into royal history and panoramic views. The UNESCO-listed Brú na Bóinne complex, including Newgrange and Knowth, showcases intricate Neolithic tombs, while Trim Castle provides medieval grandeur. Other attractions include the Boyne River’s scenic walks and historic Slane Castle. Meath is Ireland’s 14th largest county by size (2,336 square km) and eighth largest by population (220,826). Population previously peaked at 183,828 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 62,969 in 1926. In terms of hospitality, Meath is Ireland’s 19th most visited tourist county with around 122,000 international visitors per year.

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