Meadowsweet Forest Lodge

This remote inn dates from the 1760s, and its somewhat modest façade gives little indication as to the charm and character that lies within. The bar is always filled with locals, and the large dining room plays host to a set menu which boasts plenty of fish and shellfish from nearby shores, including local oysters and house-smoked salmon; while the fermented potato bread gets things off to a great start. There are cosy bedrooms available too.

Latin for ‘craft’, Artis sits in the Craft Village area of the city and is, at its core, a celebration of local produce and trusted local suppliers. The two-roomed restaurant is serene in both atmosphere and decoration thanks to the warm service and neutral hues. Dishes are clean, contemporary and technically accomplished, and the desserts are always a highlight.

The flagship of the Browns group sits on the east bank of the River Foyle and comes with a plush lounge and an intimate, art deco style dining room. The artful modern cooking is elaborate in its techniques and combinations and represents good value for money.

It may be found in quite a remote area near the Irish border, but MacNean House is a destination in its own right. Run by celebrity chef Neven Maguire, it houses a cookery school, bedrooms and this perennially busy restaurant. There’s a plushness to the dining room and a degree of formality in the service that make it a popular choice for celebrating a special occasion, while the generous tasting menu offers attractive, detailed cooking. The finest Irish ingredients are used and there’s no shortage of flavour across the dishes.

Start by enjoying a fireside aperitif in the flag-floored bar of this old 1800s post office, then dine either in the atmospheric original building or in the appealing conservatory. The experienced Chef-Owner uses top local ingredients to create flavoursome dishes that are classic in essence; game is a speciality and sauces are a highlight. Stylish bedrooms complete the picture.

This traditional family-run pub sits close to the river and is filled with pottery, bygone artefacts, fishing tackle and, of course, plenty of locals. Service is chatty, there’s a lovely deli, and they even have a lager brewed specifically for them. Flavoursome cooking uses local produce, with the fish dishes being a sure-fire hit, and all of the bread is home baked. The upstairs restaurant opens later in the week.