The award-winning Rachel’s Garden Café at Arboretum is a self- and assisted-service restaurant which champions Irish and preferably locally sourced produce; a particular favourite is the beef braised in O’Hara’s Stout which is brewed by the Carlow Brewing Company only 5 km down the road. Enjoy breakfast (including ‘the full Irish’) from 9 a.m. and lunch including soups (gluten free), salads, daily specials and a roast of the day from 12 noon. The tempting desserts are all made on the premises and special dietary needs are catered for with gluten-, sugar- or dairy-free options. The little ones are kept happy with a children’s menu, indoor and outdoor play areas and a fun maze. Tempting afternoon tea options are available, bookable in advance. Pre-booked groups and tours are welcome.
Local Suppliers: Carlow Brewing Company; Michael Hosey Fruit and Vegetables; Village Dairy, Killeshin; Herbs and apples from Arboretum’s own garden