Restaurant Pubs in Clane

Just what Clane needed - another pub-restaurant hybrid promising the moon and stars. When I first heard about Glennons Cafe, Bar Restaurant, Beer Garden & Takeaway (quite the mouthful, isn't it?), I rolled my eyes so hard I nearly sprained something. But here's the infuriating part: they're actually doing something right in this corner of Kildare. Let's address the elephant in the room - that sprawling name that seems determined to cover every possible dining scenario. It's like someone threw a handful of hospitality buzzwords at a wall and decided to use all of them. Yet, remarkably, Glennons in Clane manages to deliver on each promise without falling flat on its face. I walked in expecting the usual Irish pub fare - you know, the kind where the chef's most ambitious creation is adding a slice of tomato to the breakfast plate. Instead, I found myself reluctantly impressed by a menu that shows actual thought and execution. The breakfast (yes, they do that too) isn't just your standard fry-up, though they nail that classic with an expertise that suggests someone's grandmother is chaining the cook to the griddle. The transformation they underwent during Covid wasn't just a lick of paint and some hand sanitizer stations. They've created something that walks the line between traditional Irish pub and contemporary eatery without stumbling into the realm of pretension. The beer garden - often a euphemism for "smoking area with a few wet picnic tables" - is actually pleasant enough that you might choose to sit there even when it's not absolutely necessary. Now, about those prices. They're sitting in that sweet spot where you can't quite complain but also can't help thinking about that place in Dublin that charges the same. The difference is, here you'll actually leave with both a full stomach and your dignity intact. The portions are generous enough to make you question if they've accidentally given you someone else's order as well as your own. The Guinness deserves its own paragraph. It's good. Annoyingly good. The kind of pint that makes you question why you bother drinking anywhere else, then immediately remember it's because you can't be in Clane every night. The rest of the beer selection is solid, and they've even managed to assemble a cocktail menu that doesn't make you worry about getting a sugar-induced headache. What really gets under my skin is how they've managed to nail the atmosphere. It's that elusive Irish pub sweet spot - lively enough to feel welcoming, but not so boisterous that you can't hear yourself think. The live music on weekends doesn't make you want to flee to the nearest monastery, which is saying something. The staff, curse them, are genuinely friendly. Not that artificial, corporate-mandated friendliness that makes you want to hide under your table, but the kind that makes you feel like you've been coming here for years, even on your first visit. They remember your preferences, crack jokes that actually land, and somehow manage to be attentive without hovering like anxious helicopters. For families, they've done the impossible - created a space where both parents and children can exist without either group plotting the other's demise. The kids' menu isn't just an afterthought of chicken nuggets and chips (though they're there if your little one is going through that beige-food-only phase). Let's talk logistics: parking isn't a nightmare (a miracle in itself), they take cards (welcome to the 21st century), and you can actually make reservations like a civilized human being. They're open for everything from breakfast to late-night drinks, and somehow manage to do each service justice. Look, I didn't want to like Glennons in Clane. It goes against every cynical bone in my body to admit that a place trying to be all things to all people actually succeeds. But here we are. Whether you're after a proper pint, a family dinner, a quick lunch, or a spot to impress visitors with "authentic Irish pub culture," you'll find it here. And yes, that pains me to say. Book a table, prove me right, and join me in my reluctant admiration of what they've achieved here. Just don't tell them I sent you - I have a reputation to maintain.

Listen up, because I'm about to put you onto something that's going to change your entire going-out game. The Carriage House at Carton House, Fairmont in Clane isn't just another spot to grab a bite - it's literally where fairy tales meet fantastic nights out. And I'm not even exaggerating! Picture this: you're rolling up to this gorgeous historic building in Clane, feeling like absolute royalty before you even step inside. The Carriage House at Carton House has this whole "am I actually in a movie right now?" vibe that hits different. Trust me, your Instagram story is about to make everyone else's evening look BORING. Let me tell you about the time I brought my crew here for what was supposed to be "just dinner" and ended up being one of those nights we still talk about. The inside is giving luxury-meets-cozy vibes, with these incredible comfortable seats that'll make you want to stay forever (dangerous in the best way possible). But wait until you see the outdoor seating area - surrounded by these massive trees that make you feel like you're dining in some secret garden. When the weather plays nice, it's absolutely unreal. Y'all. The FOOD. Where do I even begin? Their seafood chowder with Guinness bread is the kind of dish you'll dream about weeks later. And if you're feeling fancy (which, let's be honest, this place makes you want to), go for the black sole. Pro tip: their breakfast spread is lowkey one of the best-kept secrets in Clane - imagine starting your day feeling like actual nobility. But here's where it gets really good - they've somehow mastered being fancy without being stuffy. Like, you can roll in for a casual brunch with your besties OR make it your go-to spot for those "big deal" celebrations. The staff here? They're literally the best. They've got this sixth sense for knowing exactly when you need another cocktail (which, by the way, are crafted like little works of art). Speaking of celebrations - PLEASE do yourself a favor and host your next special occasion here. The way they handle birthdays is next level - we're talking surprise desserts and the whole team making you feel like the main character. I've seen them turn regular dinners into core memories without even trying. Let's talk logistics because I want you to do this right. First up, definitely make a reservation - this isn't the kind of place you want to risk missing out on. They're open for literally every meal (breakfast through dinner), but my personal sweet spot is that golden hour dinner time when the light hits different through those huge windows. If you're coming with a group (which you should), they've got you covered with plenty of space and a menu that'll make everyone happy - even your vegetarian friend who's super picky. The Carriage House is basically holding down the fort in Clane's luxury dining scene, but don't let that intimidate you. Yes, it's in the Fairmont, but it's the kind of place where memories trump menuprices every single time. Plus, the free parking situation means more budget for trying everything on the cocktail menu (just saying). Look, I know there are about a million restaurants you could go to, but The Carriage House at Carton House, Fairmont isn't just a restaurant - it's an experience. Whether you're planning date night, family dinner, or the group chat is blowing up with "where should we go?" messages, this is your answer. The only real question is: why aren't you already on your way there? Don't be the person who has to hear about how amazing everyone else's night was - be the person who made it happen.