fabulous food in Grace Neills, Donaghadee

I have a great fondness for Donaghadee.  It has been the venue of many family outings and special occasions for us and my Dad’s ashes are now scattered there which brings a whole new level of affection for the place.

One of my favourite eating establishments is Grace Neills in the heart of the town which  is, according to them, the oldest bar in Ireland.  Legend has it that it opened  in 1611 as The Kings Arms and was later named after Grace Neill who was given the bar as a wedding present by her father, Hugh Jamison. The original snugs in the bar retain their original character but the bistro has been extensively renovated and offers a more modern charm.

I visited with my mum and sister on one of our many little jaunts.  After a bracing walk along the pier and round the lighthouse (one of the things you must do when you are in Donaghadee) we were pleased to take our seats and peruse the many choices available on the menu.  Mum and I were quick to agree that we both fancied the marinated chicken strips while Diane chose the fish special of the day which was Seabass.   The chicken strips were tender and delicious, served with Sweet chilli Thai sauce, crisp salad and garlic aoli.  Mum chose a side of chips and I opted for the sweet potato fries.  We were both delighted with our choices. Diane’s fish came served on a bed of champ and was declared to be delicious.

We did peruse the pudding menu and there were quite a few options that i could have fancied. I have had the puddings in Grace Neills previously and they were excellent.  On this occasion though, we decided to skip the pudding and instead followed another family tradition involving a 99 ice-cream  from the famous Cabin Ice-cream shop eaten on a bench in the harbour!

I urge you to visit Donaghadee and give Grace Neills a try.  I think you will like it!

Our Bill:

Chicken strips x2- 17.00

1 lunch special- £10.00

1 soda & lime- £2.20

2 sparkling waters with lime £5.00

3 filter coffees £6.15

TOTAL: £40.35