Allo's Restaurant, Bar and Bistro

Allo's Restaurant, Bar and Bistro Review

Just off Listowel's main square, this cheerful, welcoming bar, which dates from 1859, serves the best in local foods. Helen Mullane, who generates much of the cheer and the welcome, manages the restaurant, while her partner, Armel Whyte, and his team of chefs prepare an extensive menu from primarily local ingredients. Simple, inexpensive food is served in a lively atmosphere at oilcloth-covered tables in the long, narrow bar. Local Aberdeen Angus beef comes in a beef-and-vegetable goulash with freshly creamed mash, while vegetarians can enjoy a baked phyllo parcel of local (St. Tola) goat cheese with toasted nuts. The restaurant ($$$) is in the house next door, but can also be accessed from the bar area, and shares the lively buzz. If you like Irish whiskey, Armel will be pleased to introduce you to his collection. Be warned, one vintage malt costs €60 a shot. There are also three bedrooms for overnight stays.