The Rusty Mackerel

Our Story

The Rusty Mackerel

Robert Lynch a Meath man had a dream and vision. This was to create a special place where they would come from near and far and make new friends and promise to return. He eyed up The Rusty Mackerel. A very run down bar on the brink of closure. He was lucky enough in March 2018 to purchase his dream and turn into into his vision. People thought he was mad but he could see big things for this little run down building in need of care. After 3 months of sensitive restoration, with new Beer Garden, Kitchen, Lounge & Bar ‘The Rusty Mackerel’ opened its doors. That was June 2018. August 2018 seen the completions of 13 new bedrooms. June 2019 The Rusty Mackerel added a further 34 seats with an Upstairs Restaurant. March 2019 seen a new retractable roof covering the beer garden with a wood burning stove and patio heaters. In turn there is 30 staff employed on a full time and part time basic. This is what we have to say about The Rusty Mackerel. The Rusty Mackerel is a renowned Traditional Irish Bar & Restaurant made famous for its Traditional Irish music, food, warm & friendly atmosphere with a vibrant mix of both locals and visitors at the foot of the Sliabh Liag Mountains. With music 7 nights a week (June - Sept), locals and visitors are invited to join in or sit back and enjoy a ‘Silkie’ in the surrounds of the rustic interior with character and characters! With some great musicians and Irish dancers of their own who often like to join in for the ‘craic’. Our Menu reflects the best seasonal local produce Donegal has on offer served in the flag-stoned bar with fish caught at night and delivered fresh to our door every morning. Local craft beers from Kinnegar & Ballayshannon Brewing Company, the legendary ‘Silkie’ Irish Whiskey & An Dúlamán Maritime Gin distilled less than a mile away are one of the many drinks on offer, either by the open turf fire in winter or outdoor seating area overlooking Sliabh Liag on sunnier days. Our 'Unique' 5* Accommodation consist of Double & Triple Rooms, en-suite with Shower and Wi-Fi, Parking to include Full Irish Breakfast at affordable cost for travellers and couples alike to explore South Donegal & the Wild Atlantic Way. All Rooms are designed to provide Comfort & Relaxation with private Courtyard Area. We cater for all events with an additional Upstairs Restaurant with menus designed for every taste. It is enriched by the many and varied characters who have been frequenting this establishment for decades, with many now portrayed on our exterior walls making it an iconic backdrop for photographs. Today, after sensitive restoration, it has retained some of the best characteristics of the past and makes a perfect stopping place. Our reputation is built on the delivery of quality food, fine service and the best of traditional Irish entertainment.

Our Menu Items