As dining al fresco continues to be the prevalent theme in the local hospitality industry with relevant businesses adapting to cater for a wealth of customers through the summer season, Athlone Springs Hotel is to the fore of such offerings, creating the perfect space to savour a meal outdoors in their Secret Garden.
Comfortable, cool and contemporary, the Secret Garden offers guests the perfect outdoor dining option as a relaxing atmosphere prevails within a transformed area on the grounds of the popular hotel.
Complementing the surrounds is a 'Burgers n' Bowls' menu, created by resident head chef, Martin Duffy, featuring dishes specifically designed with dining al fresco theme in mind.
In the company of my guest for the afternoon, I am warmly welcomed to the hotel by Niamh O'Grady, Sales and Marketing Manager, and her personable manner is most noticeable as she welcomes us to the Secret Garden for our outdoor dining experience.
Two course meal options dot the menu as my colleague chooses Thai Green Curry with for her main dish.
Infused with coconut milk, lime leaves, fresh coriander, basmati rice and crisp poppadums, the dish caters for vegetarians with an option to add chicken also available. The attention to detail is highly noticeable as colour laces the plate and a sumptuous food experience is enjoyed.
Choosing the Buttermilk Chicken Burger for my main dish, I await with immense anticipation. Served on a toasted brioche bap and lavished with sriracha mayonnaise and melted cheddar, I am not disappointed. The burger is succulently cooked and oozes tender flavour, the taste experience being of the highest quality.
Continuing our food experience journey, both my colleague and I choose the Classic Summer Eton Mess as our dessert options. This summer berry medley, beautifully presented and sweet tasting in abundance, favourably complements our main course choices.
Two lattes complete our afternoon outdoor experience as the Secret Garden embraces further footfall from both locals and tourists alike.
The Secret Garden is open from Monday to Thursday, from 5pm to 10pm and from Friday to Sunday, from 1pm to 10pm.
With walk-ins welcome, there is no need to reserve a table but if you wish to do so, please call 09064 44444.
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