2 Best Restaurants in The Southeast, Ireland

A landmark since the 1940s, Langton's is a labyrinth of interconnected bars and eateries. Up front is one of Ireland's most famous "eating pubs," often crammed to the rafters of its low ceiling with a lively crowd. For more tranquil environs, head out back, where you can enjoy a neo-Gothic garden framed by a stretch of the old city walls. Most of the seating areas, all with open fires, have different personalities—from the leather-upholstered gentlemen's club in the Langton Bar to an attempt at Art Deco in the spacious dining room. The main restaurant offers well-prepared traditional dishes, including (of course) Irish stew and a mean cod in beer batter. There are 34 Art Deco–style hotel rooms upstairs.

Fresh-off-the-boat fish is the big draw at this restaurant at the family-friendly Ferrycarrig Hotel. Seafood from Kilmore Quay is a favorite, but the Killurin lamb is just as local and tasty, as is the wild Wicklow venison loin with red cabbage tatin, parsnip puree, red wine jus, and game chips (potatoes, flour-dusted then thinly sliced and fried). Check out the wine list, one of the better ones in the Southeast. While the tables are formally appointed with crisp white linens, the light-filled dining room has a friendly, relaxed vibe.