If you go delving down the side streets of Carlow town you might be rewarded by coming across Le Fermier. The two storey property is tucked away at the beautifully restored Haymarket across from Carlow Town Hall.
Here, husband and wife team Jurek and Yvonne Przybylski offer a modern take on classic French fare with a Mediterranean influence - and their unexpected, off-the-beaten-track restaurant and wine bar in this small square has been going down a treat since its opening in 2016.
Tempting menus beside the entrance will draw you in to the long narrow premises with its romantic ambience and cosy decor - and there is always a warm welcome from Yvonne at front of house the moment you walk through the door.
Seafood and French cooking are the declared speciality but, as the name implies, Jurek focuses on sourcing quality local ingredients for his menu and producers include Waterford's Billy Burke Fishmongers, Carlow's Coolanowle Organic Farm and of course Carlow Farmhouse Cheese from Elizabeth Bradley, a relative of the family.
Starters that bring locals back time and again include include crab gratin or pork belly with black pudding, alongside bistro classics such as crispy skinned duck confit, Cote de boeuf with sauté potato, or buttery monkfish with wild mushrooms - all to be enjoyed in a convivial neighbourhood setting with wines from their well-stocked cellar.
You’ll also find delicious French desserts, of course - tarte tatin, creme brûlée and chocolate fondant are all favourites here...
Le Fermier is as inventive and ambitious as it is likable and inviting - and the consistently high quality food at affordable prices means that one visit here invariably turns into many more.
A charming Parisian style bistro with perfectly crafted dishes at a reasonable price.
