Station House Hotel

The meal was delicious, and Erica was especially kind and helpful. My partner and I are both vegan, and although the menu didn’t list a dedicated vegan dish, the staff knew what we could have and offered plenty of choices when we asked. We had garlic potatoes and vegetables on the side, and they reassured us, before we even needed to check, that everything was vegan. They also brought vegan spread with the bread and vegan petit fours at the end. I had a tofu spring roll and mushroom risotto; my partner chose beetroot salad and curry. We came to Station House to celebrate our anniversary and had a lovely evening. It would be helpful if the menu pointed out the vegan options they already have. We’ll definitely return.

The chocolate fondant was the dessert my husband chose, and he was very happy with it. I went for Black Forest Gateau, but as a traditionalist I was disappointed to get a deconstructed version, even though it had all the familiar flavours. We shared a bottle of red in the €30s, though the wine list also went up to €500. We were celebrating my birthday with a rare meal out as a couple. My husband had treated me, and neither of us had eaten dinner here before, though I’d visited with friends. The German-Irish waitress deserves a special mention for chatting with us a little more, and the staff were friendly overall. For starters, my Pork Belly was tasty at €15.95, but I felt I could have eaten twice as much. My husband’s Scallops with Black Pudding, €16.95, was a more substantial choice. I tried a bite and thought it was excellent and perfectly cooked. For mains, I enjoyed the Goatsbridge Trout at €29, while he savoured the Rack of Lamb at €38. The desserts were €8.50 each. We enjoyed the meal, and from our choices I’d recommend the scallops, trout or lamb, and chocolate fondant.

The gardens are gorgeous, and it was easy to get around with a pram. We came for a post-christening lunch in the small room at the end of the restaurant. The food was excellent throughout, and the service was friendly and attentive. There’s ample free parking a short distance from the venue. We didn’t stay overnight, so this is just about the restaurant. The bar is tiny for the size of the place and the number of customers, though there is some seating and the bar staff were friendly.

The meal was the highlight. Everything arrived promptly, piping hot and cooked just right, which feels less common in restaurants lately. The staff were so welcoming and friendly. Thanks to everyone, front of house and behind the scenes. It can’t be easy to establish a venue at this level, but The Station House has got it just right. We arrived on a cold winter evening to a welcoming fire, then noticed the lovely details: immaculate table linen, antique salt and pepper shakers and beautiful silverware. It’s a superb, traditional high-end restaurant, and the food lives up to its setting.