On the Balllina side of the twin towns of Killaloe/Ballina (generally known as Killaloe), this attractive younger sister of the popular Limerick Tuscany Bistro is smartly presented and welcoming - just like its Annacotty namesake.
Inside, it’s cosy and buzzy and has a real Italian feel to it, with friendly hands-on owner Sabarina Amodeo quite likely to be there herself, and lots of wine bottles and olive oils on display (including the house salad dressing, Amodeo Dressing, which is also for sale in other selected outlets).
Sharing the same menus and ethos as its older sister, it’s simply stylish and offers the kind of smart-casual setting that works equally well for a casual daytime bite or for an evening out. Menus offer all the Italian favourites, including plenty of poultry choices such ever-popular chicken cacciatore and a range of fish dishes, which depend on the daily delivery.
Freshly prepared, tasty, versions of crowd-pleasing dishes are attractively presented and, while purists might question the inclusion of cream in the spaghetti carbonara, it will taste very good all the same.
Like Italian restaurants everywhere Tuscany Bistro is very family-friendly, offering a kids menu that includes mini-pizza - and there’s consideration for people with special dietary requirements too, with vegetarian options offered and both pasta and pizza dishes available gluten-free.
Professional and attentive service is a highlight and also a compact but kindly-priced wine list offering about 20 Old and New World wines, from about €19.00, or €5.50 by the glass.
An appealing addition to the dining options in Killaloe/Ballina, and good value too.
