Three to try...Coastal cool

DAROKA

Cliff Road, Ballybunion, Co Kerry. Tel: (068) 27911 daroka.ie “You can’t hide behind simplicity”, is the mantra of chef Daniel O’Brien, who says, “If you have three ingredients on a plate, then all of them have to be perfect”. This is his first restaurant, and he is definitely hitting the right notes. His scallops come with chorizo jam and sweetcorn; his lamb with aubergine, broccolini and olive. Price: Mains, €18-€24 Try: Halibut served with baby gem lettuce, prawns and pancetta, €24 Drinks: Wine

GREGORY’S GARDEN

Main Street, Castlegregory, Co Kerry. Tel: (086) 362-1984 gregorysgarden.ie Ex Chapter One, L’Ecrivain, and a spell in San Sebastian, Greg O’Mahoney has created a little bit of heaven with his cafe and restaurant, which is set in a large garden where they also grow organic herbs, vegetables and fruit. Superb local produce with Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and Asian influences. Price: Dinner mains, €18-€27.50 Try: Turbot with cauliflower puree, florets, curry oil, pickled golden raisins, coriander and yoghurt, €24 Drinks: Wine, craft beer, cider

INTERLUDE

Davitt’s Quay, Dungarvan, Co Waterford. Tel: (058) 45898 interlude.ie Susan Denn’s delightful cafe/deli restaurant is perfectly named. Its artistic ambiance and atmosphere is totally welcoming, and we very often stop off here on our travels. The food is casual and consistently good. The fare includes wraps, melts, salads, boards, fish pies, steak sandwiches and pasta — oh, and scrumptious desserts, too. Price: €4.50-€15.95 Try: Crab, scallion and ewe’s cheese tart with greens and chunky potato salad, €10.50 Drinks: Wine, soft drinks