French run and staffed, this unpretentious place beside a carpark in Sligo is the area’s leading French restaurant and has a local following, so reservations are strongly advised, especially at weekends.
Although not big, there is a little bar area that doubles as reception and a bright and airy feeling, with potted palms, white crockery and smartly uniformed staff all emphasising the French style.
Proprietor-chef Stéphane Magaud’s varied menus offer imaginative French cuisine in a light, colourful style with local produce featuring in some dishes, especially seafood - Lissadell oysters and mussels, for instance, there may also be game in season, and there will always be imaginative vegetarian dishes.
Sound cooking, attractive presentation and reasonable prices have brought this restaurant many friends; some say the service is slow, but to the French eating is a leisurely pastime.
The extensive wine list, which is mostly imported directly from France, includes a few by the glass and an unusually good selection of house wines and half bottles - and two prices are given, as any bottle can be bought to take away.
All menus offer good value, especially the 'Smart Eater' one- two- or three-course menu, which offers flexibity as well as exceptional value, and is available all evening midweek as well as for early diners at the weekend.
