John Coffey, head chef and owner of Thyme in Athlone, where Mickael Viljanen of Chapter One likes to go for Sunday lunch. Thyme in Athlone is deemed to have character enough to merit a Bib. Of more significance is the fact that it is one of Mickael Viljanen’s favourite places for Sunday lunch. [ Michelin-starred restaurants in Ireland, 2025: The complete guideOpens in new window ]With serious suppliers, technical skill and clean execution, Thyme does exactly what a Bib Gourmand is meant to recognise. In the meantime, this remains the best Sunday lunch you’re likely to find in the country.
