Thursday, July 9, 2015

Safe Travels in Ireland - The River Restaurant and Doolin Chocolatier



The River Restaurant at the Limerick Strand Hotel

Kayleigh here. This was definitely a situation where planning ahead is wise for a gluten free traveler. We knew when we booked our stay in the Strand hotel that the restaurant downstairs would be a backup option for food, although we wanted to try wandering around and finding a restaurant downtown first. We ended up starting too late and taking too long being lost tourists, so we headed back to the hotel for a late but assuredly safe meal.

The restaurant had recently completed renovations combining two smaller restaurants into one dinner service, so I would not be surprised if the menus change significantly in the future. At the time we went there, the evening menu had clear gluten free labels on each section, but the waiter was also very attentive and willing to ask the kitchen questions and double check things for us. It was quite a nice experience overall, with a pleasant view of the city from our table.


Jason here. It was really strange having all the restaurants close so early forcing us to go back to the hotel. It was nice having so clearly labeled gluten free options, but the options are a bit limited and it felt strange not dining out at a local pub. In Ireland we did have some trouble finding dessert places to try, but the River Restaurant served some delicious gluten free brownies with ice cream. It was with this dish that I learned what redcurrants were. They were used a sort of garnish on the plate due to their bright color. I really wish I could find these in the states. They are some of the juiciest sweet and sour fruits I have ever had. Like a combination of kumquats and blackberries.

Doolin Chocolatier
Kayleigh here. After getting our bearings in Doolin and wandering around the pier for a few hours, we headed back towards the main street and bravely ventured into the chocolate shop with a glimmer of hope for gluten free chocolate. With little hope for an independent shop being safe, we were delighted to discover that nearly all of their goods were gluten free, with the exception of bars, slices, and fudges that contained biscuits or certain candies. If you are like us and not very familiar with Irish or British cookies and candies, just ask the clerk which ones to avoid.

Jason here. Woo hoo for some delicious chocolate! I picked up 3 types of fudge and the rocky road bars. Rocky road was definitely my favorite, but the triple chocolate fudge gave it a run for the money. The rocky road candy bars in particular make for a wonderful snack to enjoy while sitting cliff side and watching the waves rolls in. Just be sure to put on some sunscreen.


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