We have already flagged the production of Tom Crean, Antarctic Explorer, at the Theatre by the Lake in Gougane Barra, but having seen it last night with the family, we have to assert that if there is any way to get a seat for Aidan Dooley's amazing performance, then you should do whatever is required to get your hard little seat in this simple little theatre.
Mr Dooley got the standing ovation last night, and after almost 500 performances he is surely well used to it, but there was a freshness and zealour about his playing that was riveting.
And equally riveting was dinner in the hotel before the show. Neil and Katy are on top form these days, the hotel is jammers, and the cooking is so sweet and lovely: plaice with tempura batter; goujons of chicken and excellent pizza for the kids, lovely breadcrumbed mussels; great mushroom soup; smashing desserts including the best apple crumble in West Cork. A darlin' place, and one of our favourites.
And a new favourite is Bantry's Fish Kitchen, above the fish shop in the centre of town. Here, again, is lovely, straightforward, respectful, modern Irish fish cookery: perfect fish and chips; perfect lemon sole with new potatoes; perfect fish cakes; perfect smoked haddock with mash. Great cooking, great service, nice room, excellent value, and not to missed by any locals and visitors. Call them on 027 56651
