The best in Irish hospitality …
Georgina Campbell Irish Food & Hospitality Awards 2025
These highly anticipated awards were announced at a gala lunch at the InterContinental Dublin Hotel which, unlike other more commercially-led awards, are based solely on independent all-year assessments by a team of anonymous experts. Special guest hotelier John Brennan spoke about life after the Park Hotel Kenmare before presenting over 50 awards. Among the winners, the Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year went to allta in Dublin and the prestigious five-star Hotel of the Year award went to Galway’s Glenlo Abbey. One of the most popular awards was for Host of the Year, which went to Fern Allen of Ballymaloe House, Co Cork, with Killruddery Estate & The Grain Store, Co Wicklow winning the Sustainability Award. The inaugural Rural Destination of the Year went to Castle Leslie Estate, Co Monaghan, with another new category (long overdue) the Food Tourism Experience of the Year, presented to the renowned St Tola Farmhouse Cheese & Goat Farm, Co Clare.
Photography: Adrian O’Connell.
Yamamori Anniversary, SO Fine Art Editions
Kagami Biraki is a traditional Japanese ritual where a large sake barrel is opened by striking its lid with mallets; a symbolic ceremony that signals new beginnings and good fortune. It was one of the many engaging elements during a soirée at So Fine Art Editions, Powerscourt Townhouse Centre Dublin to mark Yamamori‘s 30th anniversary. Guests also viewed an exhibition inspired by Lafcadio Hearn who spent much of his life in Japan and introduced his adopted Japanese culture to the West through his extensive writings. “Kwaidan” exhibition will be one of the highlights of the upcoming Dublin Gallery Weekend. To thank customers, enjoy 30 per cent off all meals across all venues from October 6-8.
Asian Restaurant Awards
These annual awards ceremony took place in Castleknock Hotel in Dublin 15, with over 250 guests in attendance and a total of 59 awards presented across a wide range of categories. Saba took home a trio of awards for Best Thai Cocktail Experience, Best Thai Takeaway and a poignant Legacy Award – posthumously awarded to Taweesak Trakoolwattana. This recognised executive chef Tao’s outstanding contribution to Thai cuisine in Ireland, who worked closely with founder Paul Cadden for over 20 years. “Tao and I first met 25 years ago, and together we set up Saba. He introduced so many people to Thai cuisine and was a brilliant chef, teacher and great fun. We miss him, however his legacy continues through his recipes and family, including his two nephews who work with us.”
The Ivy Asia
For fans of fusion food, sushi and sashimi, small plates, statement main courses and indulgent desserts designed for sharing, The Ivy Asia is set to open on Dawson Street in Dublin this November. This marks a major milestone for The Ivy group, as Managing Director Laura Mills explained: ”We’re beyond excited to bring The Ivy Asia to Dublin, our very first international destination outside the UK where guests can enjoy vibrant pan-Asian cuisine, stunning interiors and entertainment.” @theivyasia