The good old gastropub is a firm favourite among foodies these days, with an array of chefs lining up to pair fancy pub grub with the latest craft brews.
That trend has found its way to Co Fermanagh with a spot outside Enniskillen advertising itself as the town’s ‘newest gastropub’, although it's been open since 2015.
The Taphouse on the Old Tempo Road on the outskirts of the town has become a local favourite and recommended by many in recent years, so I thought I would call in and see what the fuss was about.
READ MORE: Food review: The Toastery bringing city vibes to Enniskillen with top-notch toasties
It was quite quiet when we first went in, which we thought a bit strange on a late Sunday afternoon. It quickly got busier however and turned into a good atmosphere.
I feel like they are missing the trick a little with the interior as it more of a traditional pub vibe rather than a modern craft brewery. Minor details however as what I’m really here for is the grub.
The menu was full of gastropub classics - from burgers to fish and chips, and a wee curry thrown in for good measure.
It was a Sunday and after being at a wedding the night before, I was in the mood for something substantial so had my eye on the 10oz ribeye steak with all the trimmings.
But first we shared the buffalo chicken wings for a wee starter. Although I wouldn’t actually call them buffalo as they were more of a spicy, tangy barbecue type sauce as opposed to the vibrant red variety.
I wasn’t complaining though - there wasn’t a scrap left from them and I’d happily have made my way through another batch!
The medium rare ribeye followed soon after, and was cooked perfectly pink with a lovely sear on the outside. A healthy helping of chunky chips and creamy pepper sauce topped it off nicely.
I managed to grab a small forkful of my partner’s creamy cajun chicken tagliatelle before it was scoffed as well and I was equally as impressed.
While I didn’t try any of the craft beers they have on offer, there seemed to be a healthy selection from Donegal-based brewery Kinnegar.
As with the vast majority of the food reviews I’ve done with eateries around Co Fermanagh, it’s hard not to be impressed with the customer service here and the staff couldn’t do enough for you.
Price wise, our bill came to £44 and we didn’t order a whole lot of drinks So maybe a bit pricier than average but it seems like many restaurants have been adding a few quid on recently, and not unreasonably. A quality steak was obviously included in that so not the worst either.
All in all, while I think this place has a bit more potential in terms of its look and feel, the food is great and I’d highly recommend a visit.
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