My Ireland - Mark Mehigan Interview - Best of Ireland

What’s your favourite thing about Ireland? It’s impossible to articulate, but there is an inherent familiarity and warmth to Irish people that’s hard to find anywhere else in the world. I think we are also a very forgiving bunch and most people are entitled to second chances. Someone might be a bollocks, but they’ll be “our” bollocks.

Your favourite Irish town? Ardfield in West Cork isn’t exactly a bustling metropolis, but I have more memories from that little stretch of road with one pub and a shop than I do from most cities I have ever been to. It was one of those shops that was attached to the pub and sold everything and everything.

Best view in Ireland? When you turn left onto Adelaide Street in Dun Laoghaire, just off the Main Street. The view of Scotsman’s Bay rises up to meet you and it never fails to fill me with joy.

Dun Laoghaire

Your favourite restaurant? Impossible to choose between these four: Big Mike’s in Blackrock is an outrageous eating experience; Joli in Stoneybatter; FX Buckley’s on Pembroke Street; and Bresson in Monkstown.

What’s your favourite shop? Frewen & Aylward in Dun Laoghaire – I’ve gotten clothes there since I first needed a suit for the debs. It would also be remiss if I didn’t mention Jeff Thompson. Most people will know Jeff as an aficionado of luxury brands, but he also knows his way around a solid meme on Instagram! He’s in Brown Thomas and it’s impossible to pass by without popping in to see what brands are making waves.Last but certainly not least, I have to say Appleby Jewellers. It’s where I bought my engagement ring. It’s impossible to articulate, but there is an inherent familiarity and warmth to Irish people that is hard to find anywhere else in the world. It’s impossible to articulate, but there is an inherent familiarity and warmth to Irish people that is hard to find anywhere else in the world.

It’s impossible to articulate, but there is an inherent familiarity and warmth to Irish people that is hard to find anywhere else in the world.

What do you recommend to tourists? My only advice to someone visiting the city would be to jump on the Dart at some stage and go out to Dun Laoghaire. The Dart has to be one of the most beautiful public transport routes in the world.

• This Is Not A Self-Help Book by Mark Mehigan is out now, published by Gill.