DINING in Ireland’s county Monaghan

County Monaghan is a region rich in local produce and culinary tradition, offering a dining scene that ranges from sophisticated fine dining to welcoming casual and budget-friendly options.

Monaghan’s dining scene emphasises local produce, such as lamb, beef, and seafood from nearby Carlingford, reflecting its agricultural and border-region heritage.

No Michelin-starred restaurants are currently in Monaghan, but Snaffles and The Courtroom Restaurant 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, emphasizing Monaghan’s local produce.

Snaffles Restaurant (Castle Leslie Estate, Glaslough). Located in the luxurious Castle Leslie Estate, Snaffles is a 2 AA Rosette award-winning restaurant offering a fine dining experience in a historic, elegant setting. Diners can expect a warm, opulent atmosphere with superb service, ideal for special occasions. The menu, crafted with locally sourced ingredients, is full of flavor and presented with imagination and flair. The extensive drinks menu includes the estate’s own Fighting Bishop Gin. Dinner is served from 6:00–9:00 PM, and reservations are recommended. Highlights include roast Monaghan lamb with herb jus and pan-seared scallops with local vegetables, showcasing the region’s agricultural bounty. Snaffles is introducing a new seasonal tasting menu, featuring foraged ingredients and estate-grown produce, alongside an enhanced wine-pairing experience. Address: Castle Leslie Estate, Glaslough, Co. Monaghan, A75 W625
The Courtroom Restaurant (Monaghan Town). Housed in the historic Courthouse in Monaghan Town, this fine dining venue offers an elegant experience with a focus on modern Irish cuisine. The sophisticated ambiance, with its blend of historic architecture and contemporary design, is complemented by attentive service. The menu emphasises local ingredients, such as Monaghan beef and pork, making it a standout for refined dining. Standouts include slow-cooked beef featherblade and Carlingford oyster starters, praised for their rich flavors and presentation. The Courtroom is launching a chef’s table experience, offering diners an intimate look at the kitchen’s artistry and new seasonal specials. Address: Church Square, Monaghan Town, Co. Monaghan, H18 C670
The Lodge at Castle Leslie (Glaslough). Also part of the Castle Leslie Estate, The Lodge offers a fine dining experience in a slightly more relaxed yet still elegant setting compared to Snaffles. The menu focuses on local, seasonal ingredients, with a warm, luxurious ambiance perfect for romantic dinners or special occasions. The service is impeccable, and the restaurant is known for its extensive wine list. Notable dishes include venison with blackberry jus and seafood platters featuring local prawns, celebrated for their freshness. The Lodge is introducing a new Sunday tasting brunch, featuring estate-sourced ingredients and local artisan products. Address: Castle Leslie Estate, Glaslough, Co. Monaghan, A75 W625

Casual Dining

Casual restaurants in Monaghan offer relaxed atmospheres with high-quality food, blending local and international flavors, ideal for everyday dining or group gatherings.

Andy’s Bar & Restaurant (Monaghan Town). A popular gastro-pub in Monaghan Town, Andy’s offers a casual dining experience with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The menu features a mix of Irish classics and international dishes, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Diners praise the friendly staff and high-quality food, making it a great spot for families or casual nights out. Favorites include the steak with pepper sauce and homemade burger with hand-cut chips, noted for their generous portions and flavor. Andy’s is expanding its outdoor seating area, offering a new al fresco dining option with live music evenings planned for warmer months. Address: Market Street, Monaghan Town, Co. Monaghan, H18 XE62
The Batch Loaf (Monaghan Town). Known for its cozy, rustic vibe, The Batch Loaf is a gastro-pub offering a casual dining experience with a focus on hearty, homestyle dishes. The menu emphasises local produce, and the friendly service creates a community-oriented atmosphere. It’s ideal for relaxed lunches or dinners with friends. The Korean chicken and goats cheese tart are highlights, praised for their bold flavors and fresh ingredients. The Batch Loaf is introducing a new vegan menu, featuring plant-based versions of its popular dishes. Address: North Road, Monaghan Town, Co. Monaghan, H18 P710
Porky’s Restaurant (Monaghan Town). A lively restaurant with a casual, welcoming atmosphere, Porky’s is known for its delicious food and excellent service. The menu blends Irish and international cuisines, with a focus on local meats and produce. Diners appreciate the eco-friendly packaging for takeaways and the vibrant setting, perfect for groups. The burger with chips and onion rings is a crowd-pleaser, noted for its great value and taste. Porky’s is launching a new small-plates menu, ideal for sharing and showcasing seasonal Monaghan produce. Address: Monaghan Town, Co. Monaghan, H18 V598
The Hillgrove Hotel Restaurant (Monaghan Town). Located in the Hillgrove Hotel, this restaurant offers a casual yet upscale dining experience with a modern, comfortable setting. The menu features a mix of Irish and European dishes, with an emphasis on local ingredients. It’s a great spot for families, business dinners, or casual meals, with attentive service and a relaxed vibe. The steak and venison dishes are highly rated, with the venison noted for its perfect cooking and rich sauce. The Hillgrove is introducing a new Sunday brunch menu, featuring local artisan products and creative dishes. Address: Old Armagh Road, Monaghan Town, Co. Monaghan, H18 RK15
Eastern Balti House (Monaghan Town). A popular Indian restaurant offering a casual dining experience with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The menu features authentic Indian dishes made with fresh ingredients, ideal for curry lovers and families. Diners praise the delicious, authentic flavors and friendly service. The tikka masala and lamb curry are favorites, noted for their rich spices and generous portions. Eastern Balti House is introducing a new vegan curry menu, catering to plant-based diners. Address: Park Street, Monaghan Town, Co. Monaghan, H18 YK70
The Squealing Pig (Monaghan Town). A cozy gastro-pub offering a casual dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The warm, rustic setting and friendly staff make it a great spot for relaxed meals or drinks with friends. The menu blends traditional Irish dishes with modern twists, popular with both locals and visitors. The chili prawn risotto and homemade lasagne are highlights, praised for their bold flavors. The Squealing Pig is launching live music nights, enhancing the casual dining experience with local entertainment. Address: The Diamond, Monaghan Town, Co. Monaghan, H18 T0K4
Westenra Arms Hotel Restaurant (Monaghan Town). Part of the Westenra Arms Hotel, this restaurant offers a casual dining experience with a modern, welcoming atmosphere. The menu features a mix of Irish classics and international dishes, with a focus on local produce. It’s ideal for families or those staying at the hotel, with attentive service and a relaxed vibe. The roast beef with Yorkshire pudding and seafood chowder are popular, made with fresh, local ingredients. The Westenra Arms is introducing a new outdoor terrace for dining, offering a scenic option for warmer months. Address: The Diamond, Monaghan Town, Co. Monaghan, H18 D406

Budget Dining

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

Hakka (Monaghan Town). A quick, reliable Chinese restaurant in the center of Monaghan Town, Hakka offers budget-friendly dining with a focus on authentic flavors. The bright, airy setting and friendly staff make it a great spot for a quick meal or takeaway. Diners appreciate the consistent quality and value. The noodle dishes and crispy duck are favorites, known for their fresh ingredients and great taste. Hakka is introducing a new budget-friendly lunch special, offering set meals at reduced prices. Address: North Road, Monaghan Town, Co. Monaghan, H18 XW89
Coffee Angel (Monaghan Town). A charming, budget-friendly cafe offering homemade breakfasts, lunches, and baked goods in a cozy, modern setting. Noted as an important social hub for Monaghan, it’s perfect for a quick coffee or light meal. The menu emphasises fresh, local ingredients, and the staff are known for their friendliness. The quiche with tasty salads and freshly baked scones are highlights, offering great value. Coffee Angel is expanding its range of vegan pastries, catering to plant-based diets. Address: The Diamond, Monaghan Town, Co. Monaghan, H18 P9Y2
Paddy’s Place (Carrickmacross). A traditional fish and chip shop in Carrickmacross, Paddy’s offers budget-friendly meals with a focus on fresh, local seafood. The no-frills setting and quick service make it ideal for takeaway or a casual meal. Diners love the high-quality fish and crispy chips. The fresh fish and chips, made with real potatoes, are a standout, noted for their delicious taste. Paddy’s is introducing eco-friendly packaging for takeaways, aligning with sustainability trends. Address: Main Street, Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan, A81 H720
The Diamond Takeaway (Monaghan Town). A budget-friendly takeaway and diner offering a variety of fast food options, including pizzas, burgers, and chips. The casual, clean setting and efficient service make it a go-to for quick meals. Diners praise the garlic bread with cheese and hot pizza. The pizza hot and garlic bread with cheese are must-haves, known for their flavor and value. The Diamond Takeaway is launching a new loyalty program, offering discounts for regular customers. Address: The Diamond, Monaghan Town, Co. Monaghan, H18 T2Y3
The Market House Cafe (Clones). A cozy, budget-friendly cafe in Clones offering homemade breakfasts, lunches, and baked goods. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot for a quick bite or coffee break. The menu focuses on fresh, local ingredients at affordable prices, ideal for locals and visitors. The homemade soup with brown bread and artisan sandwiches are highlights, offering great value. The Market House Cafe is introducing a new grab-and-go menu, featuring budget-friendly sandwiches and salads. Address: The Diamond, Clones, Co. Monaghan, H23 YK53

Dining in Ireland

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Award winning restaurants

County Monaghan:

Ireland’s county Monaghan offers a serene blend of rolling hills and cultural heritage, with the Monaghan County Museum showcasing local history through artefacts and exhibits. The scenic Rossmore Forest Park provides walking trails amidst lakes and woodlands, while Castle Leslie’s historic estate offers a glimpse into aristocratic life. Other attractions include the county’s traditional lace-making heritage and quiet countryside. Monaghan is Ireland’s sixth smallest county by size (1,291 square km) and fifth smallest by population (65,288). Population peaked at 200,442 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 45,732 in 1966. In terms of hospitality, Monaghan is Ireland’s 25th most visited tourist county with around 58,000 international visitors per year.

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