The Uisneach Inn and New Forest - two great dining options

Until a year ago, a motorist could leave Mullingar, feel famished by Ballinea - and not find a place to stop for a bite to eat until he arrived safely into St. Mary's Square in Athlone.On December 10 of last year however, all that changed when husband and wife team John and Kate Bawle added food to the list of already tempting treats to be found at the landmark “Uisneach Inn”, located at the foot of the Hill of Uisneach - on the road between Mullingar and Ballymore.“It's been a great year, and we've plans to make it an even more popular venue in the year to come,” says John.The couple took up the lease on the premises with the idea of introducing a restaurant to the area. They had already made a success of The Roadhouse at The Downs, and could see there was great potential in Killare. “On top of which, the premises had been completely remodelled by the owners, Fintan and Irene Mulligan, and we could see it was a really lovely place,” says John, pointing out that there had been a lot of sadness locally a few years back when the Uisneach was damaged in a fire.But while the premises was remodelled, it remains, in character, and to some extent, in appearance, the warm, inviting and entirely special place it has always been. Business has been booming since John and Kate took over - affirmation that the two are managing to strike the right note. Part of what's made it so popular is that the couple realised that in these times, people were looking not just for top notch food, but also, good value - which is why the menu is very attractively priced.If the restaurant has been gaining a reputation for one dish in particular, it has to be its steaks. “That's true. We get great reaction to our steaks, both the sirloin - which I may add can be sized to any appetite - and the T-bones,” says John. When sourcing their suppliers, he and Kate took particular care in selecting their butcher, and in ensuring that the meat was top-grade Irish beef. “There's no point in doing things by half measures. If you scrimp on quality, people notice - and they just don't come back,” says John. The couple applied the same sense of diligence when sourcing their other produce, and that is reflected in the menu, which reflects what is currently in season.The starter features a variety - soups, salads, fish dishes; and the main courses also feature a wide range of options. Its roast beef is especially popular with Sunday diners, as is the honeyed loin of bacon and its breaded chicken breasts. “We were doing a Mediterranean Chicken dish that people loved, but we took it off the menu, to keep the choices fresh - but we're reintroducing it because people keep asking us for it,” reveals John, who says that on pain of death, he's not revealing the recipe! Fans of the dessert menu will find it hard to resist, with homemade apple pies, trifle and all sorts of other delicious delights.The Uisneach Inn opens at 5 p.m. from Monday to Friday, and at weekends from 10 a.m. “We're introducing a new breakfast menu,” says John, promising that the Uisneach Full Irish Breakfast will be a treat that few will resist, with the finest of pudding, sausages, crispy rashers, free-range eggs and steaming fresh cups of fragrant coffee or tea.Since the couple opened the restaurant, the Uisneach has become a popular choice for large groups, and parties. “We have had people in for all sorts of family occasions - communions, birthdays, confirmations, 21sts, you name it,” says John.The large function room means that after dining, there is plenty of room for dancing.For larger groups, it is advisable to book, but most of the time, couples or small groups can turn up unannounced, and can be accommodated. All of the Uisneach Inn's menus can be viewed on face book. www.facebook.com.For December, there's also a special treat ahead, especially for children. “We have a Christmas event on Saturday 18th December for all the children, they will be having breakfast with Santa, and receiving a gift all for €10pp - a great day not to be missed. If interested please call and book.”The beautiful atmosphere at the Uisneach isn't just down to the attractive decor, the cosy blazing log fire, the warm colours of the natural wood employed so freely on the premises, but the personality of the staff, and their willingness to take time with the customers, sharing a joke and a laugh, while, at the same time, providing the best of service.At this time we would personally like to thank both of our parents for the help and support they have provided during this year and a special thank you to our good friend Ciaran Conneely for his help in the setting up of our business,” says John.“We would also like to thank the staff members who all have taken part in the making of what the Uisneach Inn is today.”Never a couple to rest on their laurels, John and Kate have taken another brave step: they are to re-open the restaurant and bar at New Forest Golf Club. “It was a shame to see it closed down after it went into receivership,” says John. However, the official opening is on Thursday December 9, and the couple are currently putting the final touches to their menu for that venue.New Forest in association with KPMG and Carr Golf Services is offering exciting new member price packages to suit all interested and anyone interested should phone for additional information. “At present we will be offering our services between the bar and restaurant on Saturday and Sunday, but on the 9th December we are going to launch our new opening hours. Thursday/Friday 12-9 Saturday/Sunday 9-6 or later upon request. “Please come back and support New Forest Golf Club as your custom will be appreciated and not forgotten. We would like to thank the club captain Gerry Gavin and the team at New Forest Golf Club for all their help and support in the setting up of this project.” With Christmas coming, and all sorts of opportunities arising for getting together with family and friends, anyone who enjoys top quality food, in top class surroundings, served by efficient and friendly staff - and all at a price that doesn't break the bank - should bear in mind the Uisneach Inn, and after December 9, New Forest Golf Club. “Finally we would like to offer a Sunday and bank holiday offer to both places – a 4 course meal for €20 pp. We also would like to offer 4 course a la carte meal and house bottle of wine €50.00 for two (added extra for steaks),” says John. We would also like to thank all our customers who supported us during this year and hope to see you all again in the coming year.The numbers to add to your mobile phone contacts list are: 044-9356215 (Uisneach Inn), and 044-9221100 (New Forest). Face book: The Uisneach Inn