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In fact, it could be said the decor – an eclectic mix of relaxed glamour, feature planting and bold prints – perfectly matches the menu options of modern dining twists based on classic dishes created from perfectly prepared quality produce.

While initially surprised to find The Kitchen restaurant so busy when we visited for lunch on a Monday, it soon became apparent that the popularity of the venue speaks volumes of the whole dining experience at this popular venue.

There was a definite buzz in the air as diners took in views of the Galgorm Castle Golf Club fairways and neighbouring countryside while enjoying their food in good company. Meanwhile in the adjacent wrap-around horseshoe bar, friends gathered on the sumptuous sofas for a chat and a drink in a relaxed clubhouse-style atmosphere.

Located adjacent to The Kitchen, a wrap-around horseshoe bar, sumptuous sofas and feature planting, merge to create an atmosphere of relaxed glamour in an intimate yet informal setting, perfect for gathering with friends over a drink. Picture: National World

From the minute we were shown to our table, friendly and attentive staff were on hand at every step to assist with our options. They explained the weekday lunch menu, which offers starting prices of £15.50 for a main course and drink. I found it refreshing not to have to ask for water as can happen in some restaurants and a large carafe was swiftly brought to our table as we perused the menu.

Some diners had a closer view of the busy open servery than we had, as chefs conjured up a variety of delights, but it was easy enough to wander up and have a look at what was going on.

With plenty of tempting choices for starters, I opted for Bruschetta, a personal favourite, as I wanted to taste how The Kitchen would present it in a slightly different way – toasted focaccia topped with caponata and mozzarella. My dining companion chose the Soup of the Day – roast tomato and red pepper soup with rarebit on toast.

Neither of us were at all disappointed, wtih my bruschetta living up to all expectations of its flavourful Sicilian-inspired caponata topping and melted mozzarella. With high recommendations of the roast tomato and red pepper soup from across the table, I had a few spoonfuls (just to try!) and indeed it was a perfect blend.

The distinct warmth and ambience of Castle Kitchen + Bar at Galgorm make it a space for all occasions and tastes. Picture: National World

For main course I opted for the Grilled Mediterranean Veg and Goats Cheese Roll which was a tasty combination of a rustic ciabatta roll filled with Mediterranean vegetables, goats cheese and pesto served with fries. The combination of goats cheese and pesto gave a flavourful twist to this simple yet scrumptous dish.

My companion went for the Vegan Mountain Burger, to try something non-meaty for a change, and discovered that the burger, combined with smoked Applewood, pickle, served with gem in a brioche bun along with fries was indeed a very decent choice.

For dessert, the Castle Ice Cream Special – Black Butter and caramelised hazelnut ice cream with miso caramel – was simply delicious and I tried to make it last as long as humanly possible. Likewise, my companion’s choice of Banana Bread with toffee sauce and vanilla Ice cream got a massive thumbs up.

The choice of drinks included with the meal ranged from wines such as Chilean Sauvignon Blanc, Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon, Californian White Zinfandel to a bottle of Bud Light and various soft drinks and waters.

Delicious choices from the weekday lunch menu, include Bruschetta - toasted focaccia topped with caponata and mozzarella (top right0, Grilled Mediterranean Veg & Goats Cheese Roll - rustic ciabatta roll filled with Mediterranean veg, goats cheese and pesto served with fries (bottom left) and Banana Bread served with toffee sauce and vanilla Ice cream (bottom right). Picture: National World

Although it was busy and there was lots going on, we still found our lunchtime visit to the Castle Kitchen + Bar to be very relaxing and enjoyable, with the helpful and friendly staff playing a big part in the whole dining experience combined with delicious, freshly-prepared dishes and a great atmosphere.

We vowed to return again to try out more of the menu choices. The Castle Kitchen + Bar offers a unique dining experience from lunch through to dinner with a variety of menus available.

Despite being situated at the prestigious golf club, The Castle Kitchen + Bar is a popular venue for meeting up with family and friends at any time of the week regardless of whether you are a golfer or not.

Located adjacent to Castle Kitchen + Bar, is The Barn, a bar and event space that has become the new spot in town for memorable weekends, with a Saturday night live DJ and chilled Sunday acoustic sessions. It’s also a firm favourite for live sports fans as all major sporting events are shown on the big screen each Friday - Sunday.

Review: Castle Kitchen + Bar at Galgorm delivers on taste combinations, stylish decor and friendly staff