The Lyrath Estate has no less than four amazing dining options. The Yew Restaurant, which has been awarded 2 AA Rosettes, serves local and international dishes in an intimate setting. Think warm tones like burnished copper and dark orange, with textured rugs and upholstery. Elegant columns and ornate light fixtures add a little refinement – the perfect setting for your new long dress. Large windows let in plenty of natural light and have views of the estate’s mature trees. Begin your meal by ordering a classic with a fresh twist, such as tender confit duck leg served with tart apricot chutney and freshly baked ciabatta. Next up, go for a dish like organic grilled salmon from nearby Donegal, or pan-roasted Kilmore Quay cod. Choose a crisp and dry Sauvignon Blanc to wash everything down nicely.
The Grill & Bar captures a hip, industrial-inspired feel – all geometric wallpaper and shining copper accents. Textured seats and shelves filled with books create a cosy ambience, while high ceilings give a sense of grandeur. Sink into plush leather armchairs and booths and order from a menu that’s designed to tempt your taste buds with inventive cuisine. Try browsing the Oyster Bar section, which features locally sourced, organic oysters served with perfectly paired accompaniments like crunchy breadcrumbs and creamy hollandaise sauce. If you’ve worked up an appetite with a spot of archery on the estate, move on to dishes such as hearty, slow-cooked beef ribs marinated in a sweet and sticky honey glaze. For something lighter, opt for a fish dish like succulent tuna steak, which comes with crunchy edamame beans and silky soba noodles.
End a night of food heaven in Tupper’s Bar – it’s a great, intimate setting for an after-dinner tipple. Located in the main manor house, it features wood-panelled doors, scarlet wallpaper, traditional paintings and, most importantly, a roaring fireplace. Settle down in the warmth with a dram of whiskey. You’ll also find some lighter bites here, such as chicken wings in sweet and spicy sauces or a Caesar salad with tender bacon and a zingy anchovy dressing. In the daytime, the Conservatory at Tupper’s Bar is an informal place to relax – it overlooks a Victorian garden that was designed by Lady Charlotte Wheeler-Cuffe, a prominent 19th-century botanical artist. The garden is filled with ancient Yew trees that are so old, they’re under a protection order.