Ann McDonald in New ross

We absolutely loved our visit to Ann McDonald’s Café & Restaurant! From the moment we walked in, we could tell this was a special local spot. The atmosphere was warm, welcoming, and full of friendly faces — always a good sign when you see plenty of locals enjoying their meals. Everything is made fresh daily — Ann and her team even cook their own ham each morning. The traditional toastie with fresh baked ham and vegetable soup was simply perfect — flavorful, hearty, and comforting. You can truly taste the care and quality in every bite. We had the pleasure of meeting Ann McDonald herself, who personally brought our food to the table. She has owned and operated this restaurant for over 30 years, and it shows in every detail — her hospitality, pride, and the homey feel she’s created. She made our family feel completely at home, like we were visiting old friends. The location is also ideal — just a quick 5-minute walk from the Dunwoody Ship Experience, so it’s a perfect spot to stop for lunch before or after your visit. Ann’s restaurant is everything you hope to find when traveling — authentic, welcoming, and absolutely delicious. We could not recommend it more highly!

Ann McDonald's Café is the 'go to' café for the team from the Dublin International Piano Competition when they take part in and attend the New Ross Piano Festival every September. Ann gives the group her personal attention and is assisted by her team. The service is prompt, food delicious, and the coffee is always a welcome 'reviver' after a busy schedule. We look forward to returning in September 2026.

We visited Ann's today with our newborn baby & dog. As new parents we're not yet well practiced at managing everything out & about. Everything took much longer than expected & it was near closing time by the time we arrived at the cafe & even though Ann was shutting up shop for her holidays she welcomed us in & couldn't have been more accommodating to us & our hungry baby. It was honestly so touching, she couldn't have been more kind & made us feel right at home. The food (vegetarian quiche) was absolutely lovely too. Couldn't recommend this cafe highly enough, we will definitely be visiting again. Thank you so much!

Ann herself was incredibly kind and accommodating to some dietary needs of ours. We would absolutely go back next time we're in the area!

This restaurant is a gem! The food is absolutely delicious & the service is delightful. We had a delicious mango smoothie, yummy paninis, a superb Caesar salad and decadent desserts. Oh, the latte also hit the spot! The owner is so attentive and caring. The atmosphere is homey and cozy. The service by all the staff members was amazing. I’d definitely recommend this restaurant to everyone!

We were made welcome even though the restaurant had only been open for 40 minutes. We received a warm welcome. We enjoyed a delicious fish dish.

Very nice place for lunch, pleasant staff.

Gorgeous food, lovely owner and great atmosphere. Would definitely go back

Delicious food at a reasonable price It’s a lovely restaurant with great service. I would definitely recommend a visit when you’re in New Ross

I will give you an overview on my review: Service: The staff is very nice and liked to chat, food arrives very quickly and the staff makes sure your food is fine. Atmosphere: Atmosphere was nice, it is a nice and cozy cafe with lots of menus, even a pancake one! Food: For starters the chips are freshly cut. The dinner portions are big and the food is very nice, for child or adult you have to try the chocolate cake! The chocolate cake has lots of nice sauce and smarties on top! It comes with a little bit of strawberry-mango smoothie on the side and it also comes with homemade ice cream, the ice cream combined with the cake is very nice. I really liked it here.