The best restaurants in Ballina

11/05/2026: While it's true that, as some reviews mentioned, the shower sealant could be redone—it's a quick and easy fix—we really liked the retro feel of the bathroom. The room was large and clean, and the bedding was perfect. The staff was young and charming, and the service was excellent. Breakfast was plentiful and varied. The hotel is close to the center (a 10-minute walk) and secluded beside a lovely stream, guaranteeing peace and quiet in a natural setting. We would gladly return.

09/05/2026: During the week me and my wife stayed in this hotel. Was unaware of the fact that this hotel is part ipas centre. My kids were afraid to go outside to play as there was dodgy men throughout the hotel. Breakfast was dried out but my breakfast waiter was a lovely young lady who made the experience a little nicer. Definitely won't be returning or recommend anyone i know to stay here either.

10/01/2026: Oct 2025 We stayed at this hotel while holding a memorial for my beloved sister, and I truly cannot put into words how much comfort and kindness we received during such a painful time. The hotel’s central location was perfect, and the rooms were always warm, cozy, and immaculately clean—exactly what we needed. Breakfast each morning was excellent, with many delicious options offered daily, and the dining staff were incredibly attentive and accommodating to my food allergies, which meant so much to me. We have stayed here many times over the years and always loved it, but this visit was exceptional. The compassion shown to us will never be forgotten. The hotel manager, Edel, was professional, kind, and genuinely compassionate, going above and beyond to support us on short notice. Her leadership truly shows in her amazing staff—Chloe was wonderful,, kind and professional maureen the server had outstanding service accommodating all of us especially with food allergies This hotel will forever hold a special place in our hearts. We are deeply grateful to everyone who made a very difficult time a little easier.

18/12/2025: Went there for lunch. Lovely meal, good portions and good service Steak sandwich is a good recommendation

05/05/2026: Food is really great value and delicious. Chips are sensational

08/03/2026: The food is always excellent The owner is a great person Also cheapest pizza in town

30/12/2025: Lovely staff Nice seating Good variety of drinks and food

19/12/2025: Friendly and professional staff

08/04/2026: Old tired bathroom with grout missing from tiles in major need of a refurbishment. Never a 4 star hotel. Bedroom also old fashioned. Whole place needs modernisation. Update, the hotel apologised and said I should not have been in room 212 as it should have been closed for renovations. The hotel kindly offered a full refund. I will update score after I stay in another room. Update Room 209, bathroom brand new

02/03/2026: Great staff. Had gorgeous room with bath under a skylight. Perfect place to stay when attending any event at the Arts Centre just down the street.

01/05/2026: Went for dinner last night. Two starters, two mains and two soft drinks came to 79 euros. The staff were exceptionally pleasant, restaurant clean with lovely views but very overpriced. Got 4 battered prawns which were 12 euros, chicken no veg with sauce and noodles which was 25 euros. Prices massively inflated from takeaway. Left disappointed as food wasn't up to the price tag.

30/03/2026: Being a few yrs since I was at a lantern chinese and we were delighted that the food, service and atmosphere was as good if not better than ever in The Lantern Ballina, Food was amazing Decor was excellent Restaurant was lovely, warm and spotless. Staff were all efficient and gave excellent service throughout Highly recommend and it won't be as long again until we visit the Lantern Ballina

11/04/2026: Busy mostly young people. Some families. Service can be slow when Busy.

21/03/2026: DO NOT buy the fish .it is ultra processed fish strips .complete rip off...paid 30euro for gift vouchers..they came in 2euros per ticket..then only to be told 1 voucher can be spent per meal ..absolutely scandalous!!!

04/05/2026: I highly recommend this place in Ballina. The food is very delicious. 10 out of 10!

27/04/2026: Food so-so...if you are very hungry

26/04/2026: Soup & sandwich last thursday great sandwich must gave 1/2 ham on it brilliant

14/04/2026: I planned to have lunch with my toddler there today. I wanted to order at the till as I usually do but lady behind the counter asked me to take a seat and wait for waiter to take my order. It was 13:30 pm and place was surprisingly empty: couple of girls almost finished their food and two couples having tea. And couple of men who just ordered at the counter before me. I waited for 10 minutes and decided to order at the till anyway. So I got there with pram and lady just moved to the coffee machine and started to make coffee as soon as she saw me. despite the fact that there was already a guy standing there making coffee. I decided to leave and have a lunch in different place. I didn’t see that girl before there and I’m pretty sure I’d see her again I’ll just pass.

13/10/2025: Waiter was extremely rude as I was trying to pursue my career as a facebook influencer. My cookie was served to me as in the picture. When I asked she said it was labelled as a "Crumbl Cookie". Disgrace!!!! (especially when it was €6). Very unsatisfied, will not be returning

12/09/2025: Its a popular place , be prepared to wait a while. Very limited food selection

08/06/2026: Sophia is just amazing in there, so friendly and kind. I had a very moody and tired toddler who didn’t know what ice cream he wanted, she was so good with him and he was then able to pick one. She was so patient and friendly though out the whole interaction. What an asset to the place :)

30/05/2026: Has to be one of the worst experiences I ever had i have been to a lot of places over the years this one is been run by kids who don't want to he there rude slow absolutely no interest . The place is dirty bins overflowing all I can say is avoid