03/02/2026: Ah lads…
Hold up there.
I know that we are blessed to live in a country where fresh produce is abundant, and good chefs are numerous… BUT… when you’re lucky enough to eat somewhere that has both of these things, the result is the culinary holy grail.
Quay West in Donegal Town is most definitely one of these places…
A beautifully diverse menu that showcases the best of Irish beef (Brazilian, Brashmillion…) delicate Italian pasta dishes, and even ventures into a wonderfully fragrant Indonesian curry. Being as close as they are to Killybegs, I couldn’t pass the freshness of the Kinnegar battered Haddock, with fresh tartar sauce and pea purée…
Christ.
That’s all.
The fish must have hopped out of the water of his own accord, and got a taxi from the pier in Killybegs straight in to the Quay West kitchen, and begged to be battered… and being in Donegal, what better battering than a Kinnegar batter?!?! It was utter perfection, complimented by a perfectly tart tartar, and smooth pea which was definitely in several of the 40 shades of green.
Also at our table were dishes of Chicken Parmigiana, curry, and the most incredible zesty crab and courgette linguine… I’m not sure what magic was worked to make this sooooo light, but Angels definitely wept. The delicate lightness of the lobster cream was unreal… if this was the base for a chowder or bisque, it would be unbeatable.
If you happen to be lucky enough to be in Donegal at dinner time, do NOT pass this place by. The staff are friendly without being too overly attentive, and the view is nearly as perfect as the food.
THIS Quay West, is much better than the other Key West, and doesn’t take as long to get to.
13/10 for fresh fishiness. Will dine again. Nomnomnom…
02/02/2026: Really great restaurant in Donegal Town. We were looked after from the moment we walked in the door and right throughout the evening. The menu was wide and varied with plenty of choice for everyone. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable and despite being busy, everything was under control and there was no long wait for our food. Hadn't eaten there before but will definitely be back. Really nice atmosphere. Thanks to Jo and team for a lovely evening.
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