Three to try... A touch of class

WINEPORT LODGE Glasson, Athlone, Co Westmeath. Tel: (0906) 439-010 wineport.ie

The blissful views out over Lough Ree from Ray and Jane Byrne’s plush Scandi-style retreat are unparalleled. It’s a paradise matched with great food and wines, and it’s where The Restaurant was filmed for many years. Choices range from sharing plates to steaks, seafood, burgers and an excellent veggie selection. Price: Mains, €14-€40 Try: Cote de Boeuf — rib of beef for two, cooked on the bone, carved by the chef, €66 Drinks: From bubbles to beer

BLAS The Gateway Lodge, Donegal Town, Co Donegal. Tel: (074) 972-3011 thegatewaydonegal.ie

Rory Carville has just opened his new restaurant, Blas, at The Gateway Lodge, which also offers good-value, modern B&B. Carville achieved a Michelin star while he was at Locks Brasserie a few years ago. His food is stylish and accomplished, and now he is in a more casual arena, it’s also great value. Price: Mains, €16.50-€26.95 Try: Lamb shoulder, lovage, white asparagus, salted lemon, €17.95 Drinks: Cocktails, wine, beer

MONART The Still, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford. Tel: (053) 923-8999 monart.ie

Not only is Monart an amazing adult-only destination spa, its restaurant is absolutely superb. Think ballotine of rabbit saddle with confit rabbit feuille de bric; or pan-roasted loin of venison; or chargrilled fillet of Wexford beef, all with the works. Casual dining in the Garden Lounge. Price: Four-course dinner, €45 Try: Steamed seaweed-wrapped sea bass, pak choi, prawn wonton, baby corn, sesame and soy sauce Drinks: Full bar