FOOD Traditional food with a modern twist at Cullen’s

Traditional food with a modern twist at Cullen’s


Review
Ciara Galvin

TURNING the final corner on the winding entrance of Ashford Castle is one of those experiences that never gets old. For tourists, that first glimpse of Ashford Castle standing confidently on the shores of Lough Corrib, is what sees many of them return year after year, taken with the world renowned views.
And for locals being met with the view fills them with pride of the landscape that is located in their own backyard. Nestled in the corner of the estate’s entrance is the charming eatery, Cullen’s at the Cottage.
The thatched roof and pristine white washed walls give a throwback to the iconic cottages that featured in ‘The Quiet Man’ and made the Cong area so popular. The brasserie type eatery bases its menu on tradition and simple ingredients that are sourced locally but married with the latest techniques in cooking for a sumptuous modern twist.

Casual dining
Since it opened its doors in 2005, Cullen’s at the Cottage has become a favourite with guests of the castle looking for a more casual dining experience. Although the restaurant is more laid back than the ornate George V dining room at the castle, the food produced by Executive Chef Stefan Maltz at Cullen’s is every bit as luxurious.
Celebrating the opening of its summer season, Stefan and his team of talented chefs have created a menu with much-loved favourites like fish pie and lamb shank and added a modern dynamic, resulting in Cullen’s selection of seafood pies including lobster and bisque sauce and the beyond tender 16 hour slow roasted lamb. Carefully preparing each course with an attention to detail that would be akin to what you would imagine would be expected at any Michelin starred restaurant, Stephan and his team have kept a traditional foundation to the menu but with the use of temperature controlled water baths for the slow cooked lamb and intricate constructions of the homely dessert of potted apple and custard, the menu is both accessible and explorative.

Affordable
Keeping prices affordable, the menu is simply tailored to people who enjoy good food. Open seven days a week from now until October, the team at Cullen’s at the Cottage pride themselves on providing a relaxed and refreshing dining experience.
Whether it’s popping in for lunch after a walk around the castle’s grounds or enjoying a special occasion overlooking the castle, Cullen’s at the Cottage has something for everyone.

Cullen’s at the Cottage is open from 12noon to 10pm every day from June to October. For more, see www.ashford.ie/gourmet-breaks-ireland.html.