Any time I pass through Glasson, which is every weekend, there’s always a neat row of cars parked outside Grogans. Watching customers filter in and out I’d promise myself that I’d take some time out to enjoy a lunch there soon, honestly!
So with still a little hint of summer in the air, during a lazy mid-week lunch we took the five minute spin out to Glasson.
There was a healthy mix of tourists and locals enjoying relaxing lunches, quick bites, and catch-ups over coffee and cake. A stalwart in the village, the bar and restaurant offers a reliable menu with a mix of fresh fish, hearty mains, moreish salads (yes moreish salads ), and superbly indulgent desserts that you will definitely want to leave some room for!
As expected, staff were friendly and helpful and unphased by the bustling goings on. Feeling in the mood to indulge we decided that if we were to give Grogans a heartfelt review we’d need to go all out with three courses!
For starters we decide on something light, the mussels, and something a little naughty, the bacon and mushroom salad. I was already a huge fan of their seafood chowder, and the mussels were just as tasty - served in a delicious white wine, cream, and herb sauce. Add their famous Guinness and walnut bread and I was one happy customer. If fish isn’t your thing, fear not, and order the warm smoked bacon and mushroom salad. It’s a little indulgent, with Grogans homemade salad dressing which is tangy and sweet and perfect against the salty bacon. This signature dish is rich and comforting - a real treat.
For mains we try the Connemara salmon with a mustard butter sauce and the daily special, lemon sole goujons, both served with generous sides of vegetables, salad, and chips. We’re big fans of freshly cooked fish here at the Athlone Advertiser, and Grogans definitely came up trumps.
Surprisingly we managed to leave just enough room for dessert, and thankfully so. Seeing as light and indulgent was already the theme of the day we chose fresh fruit Pavlova and Ferrero Rocher cheesecake. The Pavlova was light and sweet and generously topped with fresh fruit, while the cheesecake was heavy and rich - a chocolate lover’s paradise.
Both finished our lunchtime meal off perfectly. Sitting back with a cup of coffee we watched as customers chatted, children played in the beer garden (a real sun trap ), regulars enjoyed an end-of-summer drink in the bar, and staff busied themselves.
Grogans has always been a popular spot for locals and tourists - it’s reliable and friendly. The bar and restaurant areas are snug and cosy, with old pictures and nicknacks adorning the walls.
Whether you’re looking for a lazy lunch, an evening meal with friends, or a quick bite before getting on the road call into Grogans.
