The top venues in Ireland to celebrate Christmas

Relocated to Athlone in 2015, this award-winning restaurant has continued to source locally, in season produce. Husband and wife team, Feargal and Fiona O’Donnell work alongside head chef Julian Pedraza to ensure customers have an enjoyable experience. This year a Christmas menu offers an impressive selection for three courses. Expect mouthwatering options like pan-fried breast of wild Irish pheasant with Morteau sausage, juniper pickled red cabbage and anise jus, and 14 hour treacle braised John Stone beef cheek with fondant potato, thyme and chestnut mushroom, and horseradish aioli.

NINE is a neighbourhood restaurant serving all day brunch seven days a week, as well as a set dinner menu Friday and Saturday nights, which is great for an evening out with your other half. Brunch is the best here though, with tempting bites such as the Breakfast burrito with scrambled egg, chorizo, potato, avocado and hot sauce. This will certainly provide the fuel you’ll need for all the Christmas shopping to follow afterwards!

La Maison at the Great Northern Hotel in Donegal is a perfect venue for couples this Christmas, offering a romantic dining experience with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook stunning views. The restaurant’s cosy atmosphere, combined with a menu featuring locally sourced produce and fine wines, makes it an ideal spot for a festive date. Whether you’re enjoying freshly prepared dishes or selecting the perfect wine pairing, La Maison promises an unforgettable holiday meal.

The Lord Bagenal in Carlow is hosting festive Christmas party nights for 2024, perfect for family gatherings. Featuring a delicious multi-course meal, live entertainment, and a lively party atmosphere, it’s an ideal setting for enjoying the holiday season with loved ones. The warm ambiance and festive decorations create a memorable dining experience, ensuring a fun and celebratory evening for all ages.

Family nights and pizza go hand-in-hand, so take the family out to Croft Alley in Portlaoise. From vegetarian slices to meatier options featuring ‘nduja, salami or mortadella, Croft Alley is a buzzy wood-fired pizza restaurant using only the best local and authentic Italian produce. Not one to miss this festive season – just remember to book ahead!

The 2 Iron Bar & Restaurant at Galway Bay Golf Resort offers a delightful Christmas dining experience perfect for families. With stunning views of Galway Bay, guests can enjoy expertly crafted dishes made from fresh local produce, paired with fine wines. The cosy yet stylish setting makes it ideal for intimate family meals, creating a festive atmosphere with options like spiced mulled wine and hot Irish whiskey.

Gather all your friends and head down to The Smugglers Rest for a festive shindig. From the team that brought you Ireland’s first Seafood, Music and Arts festival ‘SeaFoodRocks’ comes an exciting new establishment and a wonderfully unique twist on the casual dining experience. Located in Clogherhead, Co. Louth, ​The Smugglers Rest brings the fresh taste of Port Oriel and The Boyne Valley to your plate while serving up the finest local beers and spirits as well as the old favourites. The Top Deck Room will transport you into a hull of an 18th century merchant vessel fully equipped for food, drinks and party catering. There are party menus available for your group including the Port Package, Starboard Package and The Stern Package; each platter serves up to five people.

Why not go all out with your pals this Christmas? The windows of Trim Castle Hotel will be glittering this festive season, with headline seasonal packages and discounted accommodation. Make a night a of it and book your stay, so you and your pals can let the bubbles flow. Options include Festive Afternoon Tea or a Midweek Dinner Break with a hotel stay.

The Danny Mann Pub and Restaurant is an ideal venue for groups of friends looking to celebrate Christmas in a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Known for its traditional Irish music, hearty food, and festive spirit, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed yet entertaining holiday gathering. Enjoy classic pub dishes and seasonal specials while soaking in the warm ambiance and live entertainment that will make your Christmas get-together unforgettable.

The Palm in Bray offers an ideal venue for friends to enjoy a festive gathering this Christmas. Located on the scenic seafront, the gastrobar delivers a lively atmosphere, delicious food, and festive cocktails perfect for groups. With daily specials, including 2-for-1 cocktails and themed nights, it provides a fun and relaxed environment to celebrate the festive season. Whether for a full meal or a drink (or two), The Palm promises a memorable Christmas experience.

Cousins Lubo and Daniel opened their first restaurant People’s in Cavan in 2016 and since then have brought their own brand of fine casual dining to a growing and loyal customer base. Christmas lunch will be available all month of December at Luvida for groups of 20+, making this one of the best places for you and your colleagues. There are usually two menus to choose from as well: the Christmas Menu and the Luxury Christmas Menu.

Crawford & Co is Cork’s No.1 Christmas party venue. Whether it’s a party with friends and family or your annual corporate Christmas night out, these guys have got you covered. The office Christmas party will be perfect here because the venue offers four different festive menus to suit all tastes! The Christmas Menus start at €11.50 per person. Hello Pulled Turkey Sliders with cranberry mayo!

Barcadia in Cork is an exciting choice for work Christmas parties this year, offering a retro arcade experience combined with great food and drinks. Located within the Mardyke Entertainment Complex, it brings nostalgia with its classic arcade games and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for bonding with colleagues. Enjoy a fun-filled night of gaming while indulging in festive food and cocktails, making it an unforgettable holiday celebration.

You’re probably going to crave something other than the usual festive menus that are out this time of year, so why don’t you and your date sink your teeth into a juicy burger or moreish steak? Butcher in the heart of Kilkenny city offers some incredible dishes, from Hot Chicken Wings starters to the legendary Farmer Burger or your choice of steak; we love the 16oz Cowboy – a ribeye with flavours enhanced by its cooking on the bone. Absolutely delicious.

Eating at The Merry Ploughboy is all about a pub dining experience that offers delicious and remarkable food, and drinks that meet the highest standards of quality, freshness and seasonality. This Christmas there’s gastropub dining for lunch and evenings, including group set menus. Make sure you book a table for you and your date on a Friday or Saturday so you can enjoy the award-winning traditional Irish night with dinner and a show.

OTTO in Sligo is an ideal date spot this Christmas, combining a warm, intimate atmosphere with a menu of authentic Neapolitan pizzas, small plates, and carefully curated wines. Located in the heart of Sligo Town, this cosy wine bar and pizzeria offers the perfect setting for couples looking to enjoy a relaxed, flavourful meal together. Whether you’re sharing pizzas or sipping on a glass of wine, OTTO promises a delightful evening for two during the festive season.