Athlone's Thyme retains Michelin Bib Gourmand award for fifth year running

Thyme restaurant in Athlone has reinforced its status as one of the region's leading foodie destinations after it retained its Michelin Bib Gourmand award for a fifth year running.

The Bib Gourmand award is bestowed on restaurants which offer high-quality food for moderate prices, and is just a step below the Michelin star grade.

Thyme, which is in Custume Place, first became a 'Bib Gourmand' restaurant in October 2019.

The restaurant's proprietor, John Coffey, said he was "delighted" to have retained the award for a fifth year, stating that this was all down to the efforts of the staff.

In its listing for Thyme, the Michelin guide refers to the pride John takes in the restaurant and praises its "satisfying and flavoursome" dishes.

"The chef-owner here is one who’s constantly reinvesting in his beloved restaurant and is always on the search for great new local suppliers – whether that’s fresh vegetables or free-range pork – and the pride he has in his establishment is palpable," the Michelin Guide states.

"The two menus showcase the locality well, with dishes that are satisfying and flavoursome.

"Do try the cheeses, which are accompanied by homemade crackers made using grains from the brewery next door," it adds.

Thyme was opened by John Coffey and his wife Tara in 2007. An article in the Sunday Business Post in December described John as "the best Irish chef you've never heard of".

The restaurant has earned numerous awards and glowing reviews over the years. At the Irish Restaurant Awards last May, it took home the 'Best Restaurant in Leinster' and 'Best Emerging Irish Cuisine' accolades.