Nancy’s Bar in Ardara is the kind of establishment that captures the soul of Donegal the moment you step through its traditional red doors. This family-run gem manages to feel both like a step back in time and a masterclass in modern hospitality.
The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly the fantastic full selection of oysters. Brimming with the fresh, saline bite of the Atlantic, they were expertly shucked and served with a precision that honors the quality of the local catch.
Following this, the open prawn sandwich was a delight generous portions of succulent prawns resting on hearty bread paired perfectly with a bowl of seafood chowder. The chowder was velvety and packed with flavor, avoiding the common pitfall of being overly floury.
While the pub's popularity means it can get quite snug and bustling during peak hours potentially leading to a short wait for a table the atmosphere is so authentically warm that you hardly mind.
The service is efficient yet retains that genuine Irish charm that makes you feel like a regular. Nancy’s isn't trying to be a polished gastro-pub; it’s a characterful, honest sanctuary for seafood lovers. It remains an essential stop for anyone traveling the Wild Atlantic Way.
Alexander
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08 January 2026
8.0
Nancy’s is truly a hidden gem. My partner and I decided to visit Nancy’s on a whim on our road trip. We were delighted to have what we can easily rank the best fish and chips we’ve had. We also tried the Seafood Chowder, which was great.
We’ll definitely visit again!
Adithi Nair
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05 January 2026
10.0
Nice pub. The bartender is funny and really helpful.
The decoration is interesting. And the Irish coffee is really nice.
Fënril Montorier
.
22 October 2025
10.0
The most incredible, the most beautiful, and the warmest of all the pubs we discovered throughout our road trip in Ireland. This one is a true gem, the owner's former house, which is actually a series of small rooms worth visiting, each one retaining its old-world charm, with knick-knacks, a piano, an old desk, period photos, and more.
A true gem ♥️
Caracole En Voyage
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12 October 2025
10.0
Nice pub with a tavern and a few tables. The food was excellent. We'd happily return if we ever find ourselves in Ardara again.
Joke Betz
.
27 September 2025
10.0
The fish and chips was delicious and absolutely massive ! Great atmosphere and friendly service, had to go back several times while I was in town.
Samantha Gallagher
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25 September 2025
10.0
We are staying in Ardara so Nancy's was the place to go. Super crowded and fun atmosphere on a Saturday. We chatted with some regulars at the bar while we waited for a table. Fish and chips and burgers were wonderful. Lots of gluten free options. Wait staff super helpful with all questions we had. All-in-all a great experience!
Vanessa Reed
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22 September 2025
10.0
Very good food. But it's very crowded and the waiters get confused.
Christophe Michel
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16 September 2025
10.0
The best food in the place. Their specialty, fabulous fish and chips (gluten-free), was so good we went back. All the options are delicious.
Margarita Lucatero
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16 September 2025
10.0
Lovely staff, great old buildings, nice meals. Fantastic for gluten free people!!!
Nick Boucher
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14 September 2025
10.0