FOR SALE
'The Forge for home baking and local produce' is their motto and it sums up nicely the timeless appeal of Mary Jordan's unpretentious daytime restaurant. Off the road but handy to it and with ample parking, the granite building dates back to the 1700s and it makes a great place to break a journey for a wholesome bite.
Originally a steward’s house, then later operated by the Murphy family as a forge, country shop and post office until the early 1970s, this characterful premises has been run as a restaurant for over a decade.
While retaining the flag floors, sash windows and replicas of original timber work, recent restoration has allowed the bright sunshine into the the original hallway. The dining rooms are on each side, one with the original flagged stone floor and a large fireplace space now containing a wood-burning stove; oilcloth-covered tables emphasise the homely kitchen theme of the furnishings.
Mary takes pride in sourcing local ingredients and her menus offer simple home cooking - fresh scones and jam, home-made vegetable soup, ploughman's sandwiches and comforting hot lunch time favourites like baked ham, roast beef, or an excellent fish pie. There may also be some more some contemporary offerings, such as tasty panini (with quality fillings, such as freshly sliced ham) and the delicious seasonal country desserts could include rhubarb crumble and strawberry cheesecake.
It's good to see seasonal produce used, and local suppliers credited on the menu.
There is also a tourist information point as well as local art and craft work for sale. Walkers are welcome and packed meals supplied on request.
All round, a great little place for a break and known for its consistency.
