Kildare is known as the Thoroughbred County, world-famous for its many exceptional racecourses and exciting racing. Maynooth is now home to a new bar and restaurant named after possibly the county’s most famous racing son — the thoroughbred bay racehorse, Arkle.
Within Arkle Bar, visitors will find a new dining option for Maynooth – The Enclosure restaurant, home to an appropriately polished and sophisticated décor with menus to match, designed by Executive Chef Bernard McGuane. With many years of Michelin-starred experience under his belt in London and Dublin, Bernard also spent ten years as group executive head chef with Dylan McGrath’s Prime Steak Group. Bernard now brings his expertise and crowd-pleasing style to The Enclosure restaurant at Arkle Bar, with elegant, modern menus that are designed for all occasions.
With a plush décor by interior designer, Michele Broderick, that nods to the 1920s, Arkle Bar has sparkling crystal chandeliers and a feature vaulted plastered ceiling over the chic cocktail bar, dark and light oak timber finishes, luxurious velvet fabrics, brass decorative lighting, antique mirrors and decorative wallpapers. There are also photos and artwork of Arkle, a horse so famous he became referred to simply as ‘Himself’.
Arkle Bar is cleverly laid out in different sections, each with its own particular atmosphere, including a classically cosy snug with a feature salvaged red brick wall, the upscale and intimate raised dining area with booth seating, The Enclosure, and the main comfortable and luxurious lobby bar and restaurant. There is also outdoor dining available. Certain areas lend themselves to specific occasions, with date night favourites featuring cocktails in the lobby bar and dinner in The Enclosure, an evening of meeting friends for pints in the snug, or celebrating a family birthday in the restaurant.
Serving a tempting bar menu in Arkle Bar and restaurant menu in The Enclosure from 5-9pm daily, as well as a cocktail list of classic and innovative drinks created by their in-house mixologists, Arkle Bar and The Enclosure offers guests a variety of culinary experiences using the finest, locally-grown produce, premium quality, free-range meats and the freshest seafood from the island of Ireland.
Executive Chef Bernard McGuane’s main priority at The Enclosure and Arkle Bar is on deliciousness, with a focus on bold flavours from simple ingredients. He can be heard on the pass on repeat saying ‘Make sure it’s delicious!’
Remarkable racehorse Arkle was known to have a great way with people and stole the hearts of many across the world, full of charm and great spirit. Arkle Bar and it’s restaurant The Enclosure are also full of charm and spirit, a venue that’s perfectly designed to appeal.
The Enclosure at Arkle Bar
Glenroyal Hotel & Leisure Club, Straffan Road, Maynooth, Co. Kildare
W23 C2V1
+353 (0) 1 629 0909
