Review
The Silver Apple Restaurant is in Sligo town, in a first floor space just across from the train station, so it’s very easy to find. Owner and Chef Louise Kennedy comes with some pedigree, having cooked with Eleanor Walsh in Eden and Troy McGuire in l’Guelton. Her French bistro with a twist food is complemented by Christina Callaghan's deft front of house management and the result is a very fine restaurant in this town that punches above its weight in culinary terms.
The Silver Apple is approached up a short stairway and the dining room is a large open rectangular space with booths down one side and a large, long table running down the centre. Exposed brickwork is softened by a collection of travel and advertising posters of French, if not decidedly Parisian persuasion.
The French theme is evident throughout the menu, so expect to see some classics like beef bourguignon or a take on duck a l’orange. There are about eight starters a similar amount of main courses.
A crispy calamari catches the eye and delivers the crispy promise with a rich and gently spiced tomato salsa. The crispy coating belies the tender meat within and I'm happy with this take on a simple classic.
Local producers feature heavily on the menu and this leads me to the duck for main course, which is sourced from the Thorn Hill farm nearby, who produce some of the best duck in the country. Simply roasted, it's very crispy outside, and sweet and delicious inside. An excellent version of this classic.
The wine list is short and well chosen and a glass of white burgundy starts me off, followed by a Spanish Tempranillo which accompanies the main course, both well priced at under €7.
I liked the Silver Apple; it features honest and well made food at very good value for money. It's consequently popular, so book at the weekends and have a taste of France in Yeats country.
