Cullen’s at the Cottage: Irish Flavors & Fine Wines at Ashford Castle

Posted by Rowena Dumlao Rowena Dumlao - Giardina 2/10/2025

Cullen’s at the Cottage: Irish Flavors & Fine Wines at Ashford Castle

The fairytale grounds of Ashford Castle in Cong, County Mayo, Ireland hold many treasures, and Cullen’s at the Cottage, set amidst the waterfront and gardens, is one of its most delightful gems. Ashford Castle itself dates back to 1228, originally built by the de Burgo (Burke) family, one of Ireland’s most powerful Norman clans. Over the centuries, it changed hands several times, with a significant expansion in the 19th century under Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness of the famous Guinness brewing family, shaping much of the grandeur seen today.

Ashford Castle

Tucked away in this historic estate, Cullen’s at the Cottage brings a warm, relaxed charm to fine dining. Originally built in the 19th century, this thatched-roof cottage once served as the Cong Cinema, a beloved local landmark before being transformed into a restaurant. In 2013, Ashford Castle and its estate, including Cullen’s at the Cottage, were acquired by Beatrice Tollman, president and founder of Red Carnation Hotel Collection, bringing a new level of elegance and hospitality to the property.

Cullen's at the Cottage (Top) and Surrounding Gardens (Bottom)

Getting there is part of the experience. If you're arriving on foot, park at Cong Abbey, a 12th-century monastery known for its intricate stonework in the cloister and doorways. From there, it's a 10-minute scenic walk (about 750 meters) through the park and gardens, leading you past breathtaking views of the castle and waterways until you arrive at Cullen’s at the Cottage. On a warm sunny day, it’s worth every step.

A Taste of Ireland with a Global Touch

The menu at Cullen’s at the Cottage offers a variety of options, with starters priced between €13.50 and €24.00, sandwiches ranging from €15.50 to €37.50, main courses between €21.50 and €32.00, and desserts from €8.50 to €16.50. Among the standout dishes, the Seafood Platter (€32.00) is a must-try, featuring Killary Fjord mussels, Atlantic prawns, langoustine, and Cleggan crab claw, all complemented by lemon & garlic cream and fries. Seafood lovers should also consider the Dooncastle Oysters (€24.00), served fresh with accompaniments that enhance their natural briny sweetness.

Selection of Irish Farmhouse Cheese (Top) and Seafood Platter (Bottom)

For a more indulgent bite, the Lobster on Brioche (€37.50) is a luxurious choice, combining succulent lobster, dill mayo, and pickled cucumber in a buttery, soft brioche bun. Meanwhile, the Crispy Mushroom & Dozio Burger (€21.50) is a flavorful and hearty vegetarian option, served with parsley aioli and grilled courgette. To finish the meal, the Selection of Irish Farmhouse Cheese (€16.50) is highly recommended, offering a curated selection of cheeses from local Irish farms, served with chutney and crackers—a perfect way to end on a rich and savory note.

Cullen's Fish & Chips (Top) and Beef Burger (Bottom)

Dining here isn’t just about the food—it’s an experience. Whether you’re stopping by for a leisurely lunch from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM or settling in for a romantic dinner between 5:30 PM and 9:30 PM, you’ll be met with warm Irish hospitality and a setting straight out of a storybook. Cullen’s at the Cottage is open seasonally from mid-March to October, so planning ahead is essential.

Sip on Something South African

For wine lovers, Cullen’s at the Cottage proudly features wines from Bouchard Finlayson, a renowned South African winery owned by Beatrice Tollman and her family. Established in 1989 as a groundbreaking collaboration between Burgundian winemaker Paul Bouchard and South African pioneer Peter Finlayson, the estate is best known for producing world-class Pinot Noir, elegant Chardonnay, and the bold red blend, Hannibal.

The Hannibal blend is a unique fusion of Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, Shiraz, Mourvèdre, Barbera, and Pinot Noir, bringing together Old World complexity with New World vibrancy. The result is a wine with rich fruit depth, fine tannins, and a lingering, spicy finish—an excellent match for the bold flavors on Cullen’s menu. Meanwhile, their Chardonnay offers a bright, refined expression, unaged in barrique, allowing the pure fruit character to shine. The wine also undergoes no malolactic fermentation, preserving its crisp acidity, while six months of sur lie maturation adds richness and texture to the palate.