Co Down pub awarded Michelin Bib Gourmand status

A CO Down gastropub has been awarded the sought-after Michelin Bib Gourmand status for 2020.

Based in Killinchy, Co Down, Balloo House is now one of only six Northern Ireland restaurants awarded the Bib Gourmand by Michelin.

The award recognises establishments that offer high-quality food at affordable prices, with Balloo House the only new entrant in Northern Ireland on the list for 2020. And it’s the first pub in Northern Ireland to ever receive the accolade.

Five other Northern Ireland food spots retain their Bib Gourmand status from last year. They are Clenaghans in Craigavon, Noble in Holywood, Wine and Brine in Moira, Belfast’s Deanes at Queen’s, and Home in Wellington Place. Ronan Sweeney, Balloo Inns managing director and owner (left), said he was “absolutely delighted to see Balloo House recognised with the highly coveted Michelin Bib Gourmand”.

“Our customers have long recognised our focus on great quality, locally sourced food but being awarded with Bib Gourmand status is particularly special,” he added.

“Not least because Michelin carefully selects pubs and restaurants offering exceptionally good food at moderate prices.”

Danni Barry joined the Balloo House team earlier this year as executive head chef and her menus feature seafood dishes and pub classics.

Balloo Inns employs around 120 staff across its four restaurants: The Parson’s Nose in Hillsborough, Balloo House and Overwood in Killinchy and Poacher’s Pocket, Lisbane.