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Award winning Food in Carlingford

Kingfisher Award Winning Bistro

Kingfisher Bistro in Darcy McGee Courtyard, Carlingford was established in 1998 by brother and sister team Mark and Claire Woods. The secret to their success is top quality, locally sourced ingredients cooked to perfection. After 15 years in business the restaurant has gathered a terrific following and although small, comfortably seating 42, it packs a mighty punch. Thanks to the variety Mark creates in his kitchen and how well Claire manages the service, Kingfisher Bistro is widely praised for producing what many regard as the most exciting food in the area.

Guests will thrill to their modern menus beginning with a “Pork Spring Roll, Hoi sin, pepper coulis, and basil oil” or any selection of eleven starters ”Confit of Duck leg, noodle rosti, roast chorizo oil and sweet soy”, ”Tomato and Basil tagliatelle with fresh parmesan in a white wine sauce”, and ”Fried crab cakes with pepper coulis, basil mayonnaise and house salad”. The local mussels simmered slowly in the finest of cream and white wine with a hint of garlic are particularly popular and there are a number of main courses dressed up old favorites such as sirloin steak (with potato rösti, garlic & parsley butter and onion sauce) alongside more innovative ideas like “Thai spiced pork with sticky rice, curry oil, sweet soy & Asian salad”. Try the fish specials, cooked so delicately that delicious is the only way to describe them. There are also quite a few vegetarian dishes, usually including the house special.

They have something to suit everyone from families, couples and groups to someone popping in for a quick bite.

What Some Visitors Say

DON't Just take our word for it, have a read how others got on in Carlingford!

Claire H
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Carlingford Escapes absolutely delivered! The accommodation was perfect and the team made everything so easy, a hilarious activity that had us in stitches, and pubs that kept the cocktails and craic flowing all night. The bride-to-be hasn’t stopped raving, and neither have we. Already plotting our “recovery weekend” back there!
Lisa Dempsey
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We had a fantastic few days in Carlingford with the kids. The views were absolutely stunning with perfect for morning coffee and evening strolls. We did a fun family activity that had all of us laughing and the food in town was top notch, loads of great options for all tastes. It really was the perfect mix of chill and adventure. We’ll definitely be back!
Mark O’Neill
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Carlingford was the perfect spot for our stag. The accommodation was in a savage location close to everything, which was ideal after a few pints! We did an adrenaline-filled activity that had the lads buzzing all day, then hit the pubs and dance floors ‘til late. Great atmosphere, cracking tunes, and plenty of laughs. Can’t recommend it enough legendary weekend!
David Byrne - Operations Manager
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Our company booked a two-day retreat with Carlingford Escapes and it was a brilliant decision. The team-building activity was well-organised, engaging, and got everyone working (and laughing) together. The evening meal at a local restaurant was outstanding – great service and even better food. A perfect mix of productivity and relaxation. Highly recommended for corporate getaways.
Sean Gallagher
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Our sports club booked a weekend in Carlingford and it did not disappoint. Golf course was in great shape with stunning views, ideal way to spend the day. Afterwards we were straight into the pub for some of the best pints of Guinness we’ve had in a while. The buzz was brilliant and the accommodation was just a stroll away it couldn’t have been handier. Top spot for a lads trip. We’ll be back next season!
Emma Kavanagh
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We had the most amazing time at Carlingford Escapes! The accommodation was fab with loads of space, spotless, and right in the middle of everything. We picked an activity that suited everyone (from aunties to bridesmaids!) and it was such good fun without being too wild. The night ended with disco lights, cocktails, and some very questionable dance moves!
Ryan McCarthy
Ryan McCarthy
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We kicked off the weekend with some exhilarating kayaking and a hilarious round of bubble football, which had us all in stitches! Our accommodation was just a stone’s throw from the action. We had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. we hit the bustling bars in the town. The atmosphere was electric! Each bar had its own vibe, but we especially loved the live music at Taaffe's Castle. Highly recommend for anyone planning a stag do!