Restaurant at Nuremore

Nuremore is a golfer's paradise with its championship course surrounded by gently undulating Monaghan countryside. But it's not all about golf: the country-house hotel is a classy bolthole for anyone who fancies a spot of pampering in the spa complex and a bit of peace and quiet in its acres of parkland. The refurbished dining room is a smartly formal venue with a conservatory extension and lovely views over gardens to the lake. Chef Ray McArdle brings a wealth of pedigree experience to the kitchen and has a go-ahead approach to keeping his brigade's skills sharp by sending them to top London restaurants to see how things are done there. It's a policy that clearly pays off as there are great things happening here: imagination and solid technique are evident in contemporary dishes founded on meticulously-sourced materials put together in well-balanced combinations that look great on the plate. A well-motivated and attentive front-of-house team keeps things ticking over with effortless efficiency. Waffle-free menu descriptions belie the intricate work that goes into each dish. Classical French foundations are clear in starters such as seared Wexford scallops with braised beef daube and broccoli pannacotta, or a riff on rabbit that serves up sautéed loin of Anjou rabbit with rabbit tortellini and velouté. For main course, try a celebration of Old Spot pork from Fermanagh with Bulmer's candy, choucroute and Calvados jus, and finish with caramelised pear terrine with almond milk ice cream.

11m from M1 junct 14 Ardee exit (N33)
Nearest station: Dundalk

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