Easy to spot on Malin Road, this striking lilac painted restaurant with smart white window surrounds and colourful hanging baskets demands a second look.
Inside, the colour theme continues with a darker shade of lilac on the high backs of the (very comfortable) cream chairs and, although it is not a large room, the small space is used well and skilful placing of wooden partitions and plants creates a sense of privacy.
Open since 2013, Inish Fusion is owned by chef John McDaid, who decided to offer something a little different and his delicious 'fusion cooking with a Donegal twist' is going down a storm.
Sip a relaxing glass of prosecco, perhaps, while you look forward to your meal. Menus are fresh and seasonal and, although there is very little specific reference to provenance, the policy is clearly to use as much local produce as possible, particularly fish. Monkfish, haddock and salmon are likely to take pride of place, with chicken, steak and other meats in relatively minor roles - but vegetarians eating from the à la carte will be very happy here as the choice goes far beyond the usual token offering, with five main dishes to choose from.
Descriptions of dishes give little away, even on the à la carte ('baked salmon', 6oz minute steak, 'stuffed peppers'. 'fusion chicken'), but friendly and efficient staff know their menus and are well briefed to give advice when needed. And whatever you choose is pretty sure to please, as John's tasty and beautifully presented food is cooked with flair and imagination.
And sweet-toothed diners should not leave without dessert – it's clearly an important treat when eating out in Moville, with a choice of nine offered (plus a cheeseboard selection) and mostly with detailed descriptions. House specials include Inish Mess, a sweet variation on the fruity Eton classic and wisely suggested as a sharing dish; cheesecake of the day - Crunchie, perhaps; and another sharing dish, Inish Indulgence, made with chocolate brownies and other sweet treats. Safer for some will be apple and berry crumble, or fresh fruit meringues...
The early dinner offers flexible pricing and good value, especially for families (who also have a separate children's menu or the offer of a half dish from the main menu), and there is something for everyone on the weekend menus too.
It's easy to see why this pleasing Inishowen restaurant is making such an impression and its success is well deserved.
