The Speckled Door Bar & Restaurant, Kinsale

Was in the Spec yesterday for a nice Bank Holiday Monday lunch, unfortunately I was very disappointed! It was busy enough and service was fast and efficient, the girl serving us was very polite and attentive, the mussels were gone as a starter so I choose the Bullens Bay Chowder instead, my friend had the homemade veg soup. Both were tasteless. My chowder was a very watery consistancy, found bits of salmon in it alright and what I think may have been fish skin! At €6.95 a bowl, I was not impressed. I had the cajun chicken ciabatta for main and this wasn't much better. One small piece of cajun chicken on half a slice of ciabatta with a rather unusal sort of ketcup over the bread??? (From prevoius visits I think it is the same sauce they serve over the chicken wings). Accompanied by a portion of chips and a tiny side salad/garnish of lettuce, quarter tomatoe and cucumber slices. My friend's roast beef was pretty basic with mash, turnips and peas. At €11.95, it was a very substandard main for both of us. We didn't bother with dessert and to be honest, we wont be back. I've visited the Spec on a few occassions always willing to give it another go but the food doesn't seem to be improving. The only thing keeping this place going is the lovely location and the great girls serving the tables.

After golfing at Old Head, this is considered to be the 19th hole of the course. They were very welcoming and shared some stories (craic) with us. The beer was cold and we couldn't resist the soup and fish. Both were flavored great and served in an attractive manner. Service was attentive and friendly. The restaurant overlooks the sea and the views were relaxing.