JJ Ruddles in

24/12/2024: The George V Restaurant at Ashford Castle offers a truly magical atmosphere, especially during the festive season. The elegant Christmas decorations, the historic castle setting, and the warmth of the fireplace create a charming and luxurious ambiance that makes the visit feel special from the moment you arrive. While the atmosphere was impeccable, the overall experience fell short in other areas. The food, unfortunately, was inconsistent. The scallops were overcooked and overwhelmed by a chaotic plate presentation, while the winter salad impressed with its fresh ingredients and creative dressing. The black sole fillet was cooked well but accompanied by two types of potatoes, making it feel less refined, more akin to pub fare than fine dining. Desserts were limited to mousses and soufflés, with no cakes or other creative options, highlighting the need for a skilled pâtissier to add variety and finesse to the menu. Service, though attentive in some respects, did not meet the standards expected of such a prestigious venue. Key oversights included: Coats were not taken upon arrival, an unusual omission in a high-end setting. Wine was served only after the food had been brought to the table, disrupting the natural flow of the meal. Basic fine dining etiquette was missing. For instance: Serving and clearing from incorrect sides. Crossing into guests' personal space rather than walking around the table. Stacking plates while clearing. Not replacing dropped napkins promptly. Additionally, the waiting staff lacked the refinement and poise expected at such an establishment, detracting from the overall sense of occasion. That said, we appreciated Manager Andrej's warm attention and the thoughtful anniversary treat, which added a personal touch to the evening. However, given the steep pricing, the value for money was disappointing. The quality of both food and service does not justify the high cost, leaving us feeling that the experience lacked the polish and excellence one expects at such a renowned location. While the ambiance and charm are undeniable, significant improvements in both service etiquette and culinary execution are needed to make the George V Restaurant a truly exceptional dining destination.

07/11/2024: Very nice restaurant. Great service, in particular from Robert and Adrian. The table d’hôte menu was delicious and we really enjoyed the evening. It’s not cheap but I think the prices were fair for the quality of the food and venue. The staff were particularly friendly and added to the evening.