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The following descriptions are intended as a guideline only. There are always exceptions.

• RESTAURANT:
  Generally speaking you should expect to pay more (and get a higher level of service) in a restaurant than a pub serving food. Table service is the norm. Restaurants are licensed to sell wine only or fully licensed as indicated in the guide
  
  
• CAFÉ:
  Open during the day only and usually not licensed to sell alcohol (unless indicated in the guide)
  
  
• FAST FOOD RESTAURANT:
  Some have seating areas where food bought on the premises may be consumed. They are unlicensed but remain your best bet if it is after 10 pm as most restaurants will have closed their kitchens
  
  
• PUB SERVING FOOD:
  Fully licensed (licensed to sell wine, lager and spirits), may operate table service or self-service. Food available at times indicated in listing
  
  
• HOTEL:
  Generally speaking, it is possible to get food in a hotel at any time during the day, and if you are a resident, at most times of the night also. Hotels in Ireland tend to serve snacks in the lobby area, hot food in the lounge bar, and often in a more formal restaurant also. Many hotels operate what is known as a ‘carvery’ which is a hotfood counter at which roast meats are carved and served with potatoes and vegetables as you queue up. It’s a speedy way to get tasty, hot food, and is often very good value
  
  
• PUB:
  Still the focal point of Irish social life. You can drink, chat, listen to music, sometimes dance, but the most available to eat here is a bag of crisps or peanuts!
  
  
• NIGHTCLUB:
  As distinct from a disco bar with a late licence. There is usually a cover charge, and there may be a dress code. They remain open until 1.30 / 2 am in general

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