Now in its 17th year, the Irish Restaurant Awards remain one of the most closely watched fixtures in the Irish hospitality calendar …
There was plenty to toast in Limerick recently as chefs, restaurateurs and hospitality insiders gathered for the Munster regional final of the Irish Restaurant Awards. Hosted at The Strand Hotel, the evening drew more than 600 guests from across the province to celebrate the cafés, restaurants, pubs and hotel dining rooms that continue to keep Munster’s food scene buzzing. This year alone, more than 150,000 public nominations were submitted via The Irish Times, a reminder that diners across the country take their restaurant loyalties very seriously indeed. The regional winners will now progress to the national final on May 18 when the All-Ireland titles are announced at the Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, Dublin.
Best Restaurants Across Munster
The coveted Best Restaurant titles went to an impressive line-up of dining rooms scattered across the province. In Clare, the award went to Homestead Cottage where chef Robbie McCauley’s thoughtful cooking has made the tiny Ballyvaughan spot something of a pilgrimage destination for food lovers. Cork’s honours went to Restaurant Chestnut, the much admired West Cork restaurant known for its meticulous tasting menus and deep connection to local producers. In Kerry, Mulcahy’s took the county title while Tipperary’s award went to the long established Chez Hans. Over in Waterford, the accolade went to the quietly excellent Everett’s Restaurant, and in Limerick the judges crowned 1826 Adare, a firm favourite for polished cooking in a relaxed village setting.
Standout Chefs
The Best Chef category also highlighted some serious culinary talent. In Cork, the title went to Ahmet Dede of Dede at The Customs House, whose highly personal cooking continues to draw diners from far beyond West Cork. Limerick’s award went to Michael Tweedie at The Oak Room while other county winners included chefs from Oar Restaurant & Rooms, Vendricks Restaurant, The Bishop’s Buttery and Mara.
From Cafés To Gastro Pubs
The awards also recognised the full breadth of the hospitality industry, from casual cafés to fine dining destinations. Cork’s beloved Japanese counter Miyazaki took the Best World Cuisine title while seafood-focused favourite Goldie won Best Contemporary Irish Cuisine in the county. Elsewhere, The Curragower Bar & Kitchen was named Limerick’s Best Gastro Pub while the charming Henry’s Bistro & Wine Bar in Clare picked up the Best Wine Experience award.
Cafés were also celebrated, with winners including Grumpy Bakers in Cork and Café Rosé in Limerick while sustainability accolades went to operators such as Good Day Deli and Hotel Doolin for their ongoing commitment to responsible hospitality.
A Celebration Of Local Food
Beyond the restaurant floor, the awards also shone a light on the people and producers who keep the industry moving. The Local Food Hero category honoured figures such as Eunice Power for her work with the Waterford Festival of Food and Peter Ward of Country Choice, both long-time champions of Irish ingredients and regional producers. Meanwhile, newcomers such as Azure Harbour Bistro and Eleven 14 Coffee Roasters were recognised in the Best Newcomer category, proof that fresh energy continues to arrive on the scene.