Where to Eat
Our favourite spots in Donegal
Local recommendations
Eat well in Donegal
Donegal punches above its weight when it comes to food: great seafood straight off the boats at Killybegs, pubs that have been feeding people for generations, and a few surprises that would hold their own anywhere. These are the places we send our guests.
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Worth the trip
A little further afield, but genuinely special
Biddy's O'Barnes
Barnesmore Gap, 9 miles from Donegal town
One of Ireland's most storied pubs, tucked into the Blue Stack Mountains at Barnesmore Gap. Stone floors, open fires, wooden beams, and what many consider the finest pint of Guinness in Donegal. There's live trad music most nights, and a kitchen that does honest Irish food well. It's the kind of place that feels like it's been here forever, because it has (over 150 years). Worth every mile of the drive.
Smuggler's Creek Inn
Rossnowlagh, 10km south on the Wild Atlantic Way
Perched on the cliffs above Rossnowlagh beach with panoramic views over Donegal Bay. The food is award-winning, the setting is hard to beat, and on a clear evening the sunsets from here are something else. Book ahead in summer; it's no secret.
In Donegal town
All within easy reach of Donegal Manor
Quay West
Quay Street, Donegal Town
The town's most celebrated restaurant. Chef-owners Jo Roarty and Debbie O'Reilly champion local, sustainable produce; the menu changes with what's good that day. The Wild Atlantic Seafood Chowder is legendary.
The Olde Castle Bar
Tirchonaill Street, Donegal Town
A proper gastropub with a strong focus on locally sourced seafood from nearby Killybegs. Reliably good food, no fuss, always welcoming.
La Bella Donna
Donegal Town
Authentic Italian in the heart of town: good pasta, pizza, and seafood done properly. The Bellini Bar upstairs has views over the River Eske worth lingering over.
Chandpur
Just off the main street, Donegal Town
Multi-award-winning Indian restaurant that punches well above its weight for a town this size. The signature Indian Railway Curry keeps regulars coming back.
La Fiesta
Donegal Town
Mexican food made with local Irish ingredients, and one of the few places in Ireland still making handmade corn tortillas. The margaritas are worth staying for.
The Harbour
Donegal Town
A reliable, welcoming spot for the whole family: good portions, reasonable prices, and something on the menu for everyone.
Blueberry Tea Room
The Diamond, Donegal Town
A charming café just off Donegal's main square. Good for a relaxed lunch or afternoon tea while exploring the town.
The Abbey Bar
Donegal Town
A reliable spot for food and a pint, right in the centre of town. Good craic on match nights and live trad sessions at the weekend.
Our suggestions; always worth booking ahead in summer.
Also worth reading
Coffee & Cafes
The best coffee shops in Donegal Town, including a cafe-bar open at weekends.
Pubs & Bars
Live trad sessions, great Guinness, and proper Irish nights out.
Getting Around
Local taxi and minibus contacts for town trips and days out.
Things to Do
Slieve League, Glenveagh, beaches, castles, and everything else worth your time.
3-Night Itinerary
A day-by-day long weekend guide: Slieve League, the best pubs, and everything in between.
Saunas
Wood-fired waterside saunas and cold dip experiences within easy reach of the Manor.
Make a night of it
Stay at Donegal Manor and explore everything the county has to offer. Book direct and save at least 10%.