The Wild Honey Inn in Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare has become the first ever pub in Ireland to be awarded a Michelin star. The news follows the unveiling of the Michelin Guide to Great Britain and Ireland 2018.
The Michelin Guide tweeted: "First pub in Ireland to be awarded a #Michelin Star - for its robust & confident cooking @WildHoneyInn in County Clare"
First pub in Ireland to be awarded a #MichelinStar - for its robust & confident cooking @WildHoneyInn in County Clare pic.twitter.com/ctFEILyqCg
— The MICHELIN Guide (@MichelinGuideUK) October 2, 2017
The Inn is owned and run by chef Aidan McGrath and his partner Kate Sweeney.
While Aidan has made a name for himself on television in Ireland, Great Britain, Europe and the US, the couple credit their 'country comfort' to Kate "whose care and attention to detail really makes for a great stay."
Built in 1860, the Inn has a beautiful atmosphere with open log fires, a walled garden and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Formerly called Kincora House, the business was renamed and refurbished in 2009.
When it comes to the menu, the chef uses "wild food from the land and sea". The restaurant sources the finest and freshest seasonal produce from "Ireland’s natural larder".
The pub has been awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand - an award that recognises those establishments that offer good food at affordable prices - every year since 2010, but now it is has elevated to One Star status.
There were sixteen new One Star Michelin restaurants announced:
Ireland
- Wild Honey Inn
England
- Aquavit
- A Wong
- Elystan Street
- Jamavar
- La Dame de Pic
- Vineet Bhatia
- Clock House
- Coworth Park
- Lympstone Manor
- Moor Hall
- Paco Tapas
- The Coach
- The Dining Room
- The Latymer
Scotland
- Loch Bay
