Traditional Food and Dishes in Moate, Ireland

A Taste of Irish Heritage in Co. Westmeath

Moate, a charming town located in County Westmeath, Ireland, offers visitors a taste of traditional Irish cuisine that has been passed down through generations. The local culinary scene is rich with hearty and comforting dishes that reflect the region's agricultural heritage and cultural traditions.

1. Colcannon

Colcannon, a classic Irish dish made from mashed potatoes and cabbage (or kale), seasoned with butter and milk, is a staple in Moate. It’s often served on special occasions like Halloween or St. Patrick’s Day.

2. Boxty

Similar to colcannon, boxty is a potato pancake that can be made from both mashed and grated potatoes. The town of Moate is known for its delicious boxty, which can be enjoyed as a snack or a main dish.

3. Soda Bread

Simple yet satisfying, soda bread is a must-try in Moate. Made with flour, milk, baking soda, and salt, this traditional bread is often served warm with butter for an authentic taste of Ireland.

4. Irish Stew

A hearty dish made from lamb or beef, potatoes, onions, and carrots, Irish stew is a comforting meal that can be found in local pubs and restaurants. It’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly evening in Moate.

5. Coddle

Coddle is another traditional Irish stew, but this one is made with bacon, sausages, potatoes, onions, and carrots. It’s slow-cooked to perfection, making it a flavorful and warming dish for the winter months.

6. Black Pudding

For those who enjoy a more adventurous flavor profile, black pudding (blood sausage) is a popular choice in Moate. Made from pig’s blood, oatmeal, and spices, it can be served cooked or grilled as part of breakfast or lunch.

7. Barmbrack

A traditional Irish fruit bread, barmbrack often contains hidden surprises like coins or buttons for good luck. It’s a festive treat that can be enjoyed during special occasions in Moate.

8. Whelks

Moate and the surrounding area are known for their fresh seafood, particularly whelks (large sea snails). These can often be found grilled or fried, offering a unique taste of the local waters.

9. Guinness Pie

This hearty pie is made with ground beef, onions, and Guinness stout, creating a rich and savory filling. It’s a popular dish in many Irish pubs, including those in Moate.

10. Cured Meats

Local cured meats like bacon and ham are staples in Moate. These can be enjoyed as part of breakfast or lunch, often served with bread or potatoes.

11. Shanab’s Kitchen

Shanab’s Kitchen is a popular local eatery that serves traditional Irish fare. The restaurant offers dishes like boxty, colcannon, and barmbrack in a cozy setting.

12. The Old Mill Bar & Restaurant

Located in the heart of Moate, this restaurant has been serving up hearty Irish meals for years. Their menu includes items like Irish stew, soda bread, and black pudding.

13. Clonmacnoise Inn

This traditional pub is known for its warm atmosphere and delicious food. Visitors can enjoy classic dishes such as coddle and black pudding while sipping a pint of local beer.

14. Caffrey’s Bar & Restaurant

Caffrey’s offers a variety of Irish specialties, including colcannon, soda bread, and barmbrack. The restaurant also features a selection of fresh seafood options, making it a perfect spot for both locals and tourists.

15. O’Flynn’s Bar & Restaurant

Situated in the historic town center, O’Flynn’s serves up traditional Irish dishes with a modern twist. Their menu includes items like Irish stew and black pudding, as well as more contemporary options.

16. McGovern’s Bar & Restaurant

McGovern’s is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving delicious food for decades. They specialize in hearty meals such as coddle, Guinness pie, and boxty.

17. The Black Sheep Pub

This cozy pub offers a range of traditional Irish dishes, including colcannon, black pudding, and barmbrack. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed dining experience in Moate.

18. The Cavan Bar & Kitchen

The Cavan is another local favorite that serves up classic Irish fare such as coddle, black pudding, and boxty. They also offer a selection of fresh seafood options.

19. McLaughlin’s Restaurant

McLaughlin’s is renowned for its traditional Irish cuisine, including colcannon, soda bread, and barmbrack. The restaurant provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for diners.

20. McGee’s Bar & Bistro

McGee’s offers a range of hearty Irish dishes in a welcoming setting. Their menu includes items like Irish stew, coddle, and black pudding, making it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.

Moate’s traditional food scene is rich with flavors that reflect the town’s history and culture. From colcannon to black pudding, these dishes offer a taste of Ireland’s culinary heritage, inviting visitors to savor the local cuisine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.