Blairs Inn

Blairs Inn Review

Surrounded by woods a five minutes' drive from Blarney, Blair's Inn—noted for its exuberant window-box displays—is the perfect retreat from Blarney's tour-bus crowds. This is a real "local," complete with genial owner-hosts John and Anne, one son, Duncan, in the kitchen, and another son, Richard behind the bar. You can opt to dine at the bar ($) or in the quieter surroundings of the wood-paneled restaurant. In summer enjoy the beer garden; in winter, warm wood fires flicker in the hearth. Freshly prepared local produce is served in generous portions all day: best bets include Irish stew with lamb, carrots, and potatoes, as well as the house special, hot corned beef with parsley sauce, and a memorable gratin of prawns, crab, and salmon, served piping hot. There's live entertainment every Monday at 9 pm from May to October.