Restaurant Review: The Hideout Kilcullen retaining its reputation for quality food and hospitality

  I popped into The Hideout, Kilcullen recently, both for bite to eat and to get a hot drink after an outdoor sporting event. The place was buzzing on Saturday afternoon as Ireland hammered Italy in the Six Nations; not only were there rugby fans there but also groups of young women living locally who obviously like the new, brighter décor and we met members of the Haughton family from Athy who were celebrating young Liam’s Confirmation. [caption id="attachment_211320" align="alignnone" width="300"] The Hideout, Kilcullen[/caption] Speaking of the décor, I love the new look Hideout.  A well-known local haunt, the pub had been in the Byrne family for decades with the arm of the famous Dan Donnelly on display and a staple viewing feature of the pub (now safely in the care of Josephine Byrne). John Keogh who hails from nearby Gilltown bought the Hideout last year when he heard rumours that it was to be developed into town apartments. [caption id="attachment_211321" align="alignnone" width="300"] The Hideout, Kilcullen[/caption] Despite his own connections to the building trade, John and wife Carmel decided the historical roots and affection of the local community for the Hideout determined that it be maintained as a traditional pub. And I LOVE the refurbishments – the hostelry has not lost its private snugs and nooks, ideal for nights out or family celebrations, but they have achieved a brighter, fresher look with an overhead skylight window feature. It now has the perfect balance of traditional-new ambience, with strobe lighting under the fitted seating, brass lighting fixtures from the ceiling with panelled walls and ceiling in antique white. Some gas fires and book shelves along with a feature wall depicting the pub front from a century ago make this transition/refurbishment fluent and a great mix of old and new. Now to the Food! We opted for the Early Bird Menu, available from 3-7pm, with a Two Course option costing €14.95 and Three Courses costing €19.95. I asked for a taste of the Coconut Prawns (normally €6.95) and described as being “Dredged in coconut and lime crumbs, served with sweet chilli dipping sauce and fresh lime” but I also wanted to taste the Thai Style Fish Cake, served with sweet chilli mayonnaise (also €6.95 normally). Both tasty with a tangy bite to the prawns. My friend chose the Hideout Wings, “Glazed wings with secret recipe hot sauce, blue cheesed dip/house glazed colas sauce and celery sticks”. She described them as “feisty, with a hot tang, served with a cooling yoghurt dip on the side”. Only the bones were left to clear….” Seeing as I was in the throes of Operation Transformation, I opted for the Slimmer’s Section, a “Sin free chicken curry (€13.95), a home-made speciality of Head Chef Adam O’Connor, which is proving very popular with the health-conscious punter. Cooked with mild spices, fat free yoghurt and savoury rice, highly recommended. Maura chose the Lamb Shank, which was pure “divine and simply melted off the bone”, served with roast vegetables, chive mash and lamb jus. This, I will try the next time, it looked and smelt gorgeous and the portion was very generous. I must note here, that several of the servers were cheerful and chatty, and all lived locally. Under the manager, Martin Connelly, I feel if that local friendliness is retained, it will be the cornerstone of the new look Hideout, along with exceptionally good food and lively music nights.   [caption id="attachment_211328" align="alignnone" width="300"] The Hideout, Kilcullen[/caption] Wide Variety to choose from The Hideout offers three Menus: Early Bird from 3-7pm; Lunch Menu served daily 12-3, with Daily Board Specials such as Roast Beef, Loin of Pork for €12.95 or Fisherman’s Pie (€13.95) – these vary from day to day; A la Carte from 3-9pm which offers homemade Hideout Burger, Pasta dishes, Chargrilled Irish Beef Steaks, Fish of the Day and Traditional Fish and Chips, Risotto, Lamb Shank, Chicken dish, etc. It offers a good mix of starters and main courses, again with fresh ingredients and the emphasis on flavours and presentation. ALL Menus are clearly listed with Allergens and an appeal for customers to inform staff of allergies so that alternative allergen free dishes are prepared for you. All desserts are €5.95, there are additional Side Orders for €3.50, a Kiddie’s Menu at €4.95 and a selection of Slimmer’s Choice – great variety all round. Meet Head Chef Adam If Adam O’Connor’s face looks familiar, it’s because the new Head Chef at the Hideout formerly worked at the renowned food hostelries such as the Hangedman’s Arch in Milltown and Cunninghams’ of Kildare. He has further worked at the Silken Thomas in Kildare, before heading to France to gain some European culinary experience and then working with Masterchef Guru, Dillon McGrath in his flagship restaurant. A son of Paula Ronan, who is 24 years working in the catering industry, most notably associated with the Keadeen Hotel, Tulfarris and now the Derby House Hotel, she has undoubtedly been his biggest influencer and inspiration.  Adam describes the Hideout menus as “Eclectic bar food, with a mix of traditional Irish dishes with a cosy modern twist”. “It’s not a matter of ‘if’ regarding the food earning a reputation, it’s just a matter of ‘when’. We’ve used the past few months to tweak issues and respond accordingly. No expense was spared on the décor or kitchen – I’ve worked in large hotels that are less well equipped!” In May/April, Francis Brennan of ‘At Your Service’ will be visiting the Hideout so keep an eye out for that broadcast.  In the meantime, check out The Hideout menus and music nights on their Facebook Page. All family and club celebrations catered for, the establishment are committed to working with your requirements and budget. From Christenings to Communions and Confirmations, Weddings and Funeral gatherings, club presentation nights, fundraising events – contact 045 484 602 or contact hideoutkilcullen@gmail.com