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Snap-Worthy Bites: Discover Athlone’s Most Instagrammable Food Spots
Athlone, a charming town in the heart of Ireland, is not only known for its historical landmarks and scenic beauty but also for its vibrant culinary scene. From gourmet pizzas to cosy cafes and Instagrammable eateries, here’s a guide to some of the best foodie destinations in Athlone.
SATURDAY
The Wandering Elk
The Wandering Elk aims to be the go-to spot for the best sourdough melts, coffee, and premium freshly baked doughnuts, cupcakes, cookies, and other treats. They also offer vegan and gluten-free options. Run by a brother and sister duo, Zach and Naomi, who brought back the Melbourne coffee culture to Ireland, The Wandering Elk opened its Athlone location after rave reviews from their first café in Portlaoise.
Bastion Kitchen
Bastion Kitchen is a quaint café serving locally sourced fresh produce with a smile. Offering a mix of healthy lite bites, organic produce, great coffees, and homemade desserts, this café is housed in a character-laden building that was part of the castle bastion. It’s a perfect place for a nutritious and delicious meal.
Eat Unique
Eat Unique is a thriving healthy grab-and-go café based in Monksland, Athlone. Created in 2015 by Nigel and Celine So, they introduced a fresh food concept to the midlands. They pride themselves on making healthy eating easy with freshly made salads, specialty wraps, nutritious hot bowls, and vegan and coeliac-friendly options. Their food has an Asian twist, making it both convenient and affordable. They source locally and support small local businesses that are similar to themselves .
Broke Boy Pizza
Located at Church Street, Broke Boy Pizza is a wood-fired Neapolitan gem. Paddy, the owner, started out with his Monday Club Pizzas for college friends in Galway and has brought his passion for pizza all the way to his first premises in Peddler Mac’s.
Their pizza menu is full of fresh and innovative creations with new flavour combinations that will delight your taste buds. Highlights include the “Korean BBQ” and a superb vegetarian option, “The Flag”. The vibrant atmosphere at Peddler Macs makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a perfect pint alongside your pizza.
The Dark Horse
The Dark Horse, located in the heart of Athlone, is known for great food, cocktails, beer, live sports, and private functions.
It features an upstairs pool area, making it an excellent spot to meet friends, enjoy a great menu, have a nice pint, and play a game of pool. Their food menu has a wide variety of options, complemented by fabulous cocktails and multiple TV screens for sports fans
SUNDAY
Hungry Bull Pizza
Hungry Bull Pizza, offering Neapolitan style pizza, is a mobile delight in Athlone.
You can find them at Dan’s Tavern on Thursdays from 4:30 to 9 pm, and at The Mill Bar on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 4 to 9 pm. Savour Dan’s passion for pizza, where each slice is a flavour-packed masterpiece. This spot is perfect for those looking to indulge in hearty, flavourful meals in a relaxed setting.
Lowe & Co
Lowe & Co is a natural grocer and general store specialising in ethical, organic, and community produce. It’s very quirky and quaint with a real authentic feel. Lynda, the owner, offers herbal remedies, tonics , and fermented foods, all available in-store, along with fresh organic bread, fruit, vegetables, and organic groceries
Fine Athlone
Fine Athlone truly lives up to its name with an exquisite menu that celebrates the finest ingredients and culinary techniques.
Whether you’re craving a simple, elegant meal or a cosy breakfast, Fine Athlone delivers on all fronts, serving breakfast favorites until the kitchen closes around 4 pm. Don’t miss their special Friday evening pizza and wine nights, perfect for a cute girly outing or a romantic date. With vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, this charming spot is a must-visit for Instagram-worthy food moments.
Poppy Fields
Poppy Fields offers a widely acclaimed “Today’s Specials” option, with four hot specials available every day to complement their regular menu. They also have healthy options like char-grilled chicken with quinoa and kale salad, as well as vegetarian dishes.
Regular offerings include homemade soup, creamy seafood chowder, ham, mushroom and leek pie, and baked fresh pesto cod. This café is perfect for brunch or a light lunch, with a range of freshly baked goods and comforting dishes that make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Instagrammable Food Destinations
Athlone’s culinary scene is not just about taste but also about visual appeal. Places like Bastion Kitchen and Poppy Fields are particularly popular for their photogenic dishes and trendy décor. Whether you’re a food blogger or just love to share your dining experiences online, these spots offer plenty of Instagrammable moments.
From artisanal pizzas to health-conscious cafés and elegant restaurants, Athlone’s foodie destinations cater to every palate and preference. Next time you’re in town, be sure to explore these culinary gems and indulge in the delightful flavours they have to offer.
