In this new series, we explore the rhythms and routines of Ireland’s foodie folk. This month, pastry chef JR Ryall shares his ideal foodie weekend, the restaurants he frequents and the places he likes to shop for supplies …
As a chef, I end up working a lot of weekends, and having a Saturday and Sunday off together is a rare treat. When the stars align and I find myself free, the perfect weekend for me involves staying local, planning meals with friends, swimming at the nearby beach in Shanagarry and picnicking on the bouncy grass at a secret spot on the Ballycotton cliffs.
FRIDAY NIGHT DINNER
On Fridays, I try to finish work in time to head to my friend Sinead’s for dinner. She’s an amazing cook and hosts anywhere from two to 20 people. Sometimes she makes a simple meal with fresh garden produce. Other times, it’s a multi-course Asian banquet with dumplings, fish-fragrant eggplant, sweet and sour chicken, and ginger veggies. My favourite are her legendary fondue parties! Everyone helps with dinner, and my part is dessert.
MY IDEAL SATURDAY
I’m a morning person and usually wake up early, even on days off. For breakfast, I would normally have Macroom oatmeal porridge topped with soft dark brown sugar and cream, then I head to the markets for picnic supplies. I love the Saturday Farmers Market in Midleton and Cork City’s English Market for picking up everything I need. If the weather is nice, my favourite weekend activity is a picnic with friends at our favourite spot – a grassy patch on the cliffs near Ballycotton.
When I’m at the English Market, I sometimes head upstairs to The Farmgate Cafe for a bowl of chowder. Another favourite city spot is Miyazaki, a great Japanese takeaway with just enough seating for a solo lunch by the window.
Before heading back to East Cork, I always grab a coffee from Filter Espresso Bar or Soma Coffee Company for the road.
SUNDAY LUNCH
For Sunday lunch, I love eating out and don’t mind travelling for a great meal. I recently enjoyed a fantastic lunch with friends at The Beach House in Tramore, with simple, high-quality ingredients cooked beautifully.
WEEKEND FOOD SHOPPING
I split my food shopping between several markets and stores. Close to home, I visit the Ballymaloe Cookery School Farm Shop for organic vegetables, Jersey butter, and sourdough. I get eggs from an honesty stand on Ballymaloe Farm and wine from Colm McCann’s pop-up wine shop, open for three hours on Saturdays.
At The English Market, I buy charcuterie and cheese at On the Pigs Back, smoked fish from Frank Hedderman, spices at Mr Bell’s, and olives and cured meats from The Real Olive Company.
In London, I always visit Leila’s Shop in Shoreditch to pick up special treats. Leila’s shop is a dream, from cloud-light panettone at Christmas to the most exquisite pomegranates.
WEEKEND TIPPLES?
I’m not much of a drinker, but when I want something local, I go to McGrath’s in Ballycotton for a glass of Guinness. When I’m away, I’m more likely to have a cocktail. In London, I always visit Bar Termini in Soho for my favourite cocktail – an Aviation with an extra cherry. If I’m in New York, I catch up with friends over the weekend with Martinis at Bar Pisellino. @jrryall