Kinsale’s Rare at The Blue Haven Featured in the Michelin Guide

Kinsale’s Rare at The Blue Haven Earns Coveted Spot 

in the Michelin Guide - Great Britain & Ireland

Rare at The Blue Haven in Kinsale announced this week as one of three Irish additions to The Michelin Guide - Great Britain & Ireland. 

The Michelin Guide distinctions – Stars, Green Stars and Bib Gourmands – are revealed at the annual Michelin Guide Ceremony held each year in a culinary star-studded event held in February. However, the inspectors add restaurants “worthy of recommendation in the Great Britain & Ireland selection” to the guide year-round. This month saw the inclusion of Rare restaurant in Kinsale. 

Described by Michelin as “understated and engaging,” the guide highlights Rare’s rustic-chic dining room and open kitchen, offering a personal touch with chefs delivering dishes to the table. Inspired by the South Indian flavours of Tamil Nadu, Executive Head Chef Meeran Manzoor incorporates bold ingredients like chilli, coconut, tamarind, and date, all paired with West Cork’s finest local produce.

Executive Head Chef Meeran Manzoor (above) is thrilled by the recognition and said: “The team and I are overjoyed to be added to the Michelin Guide. Each tasting menu reflects our creativity and passion, and we’re honoured to be acknowledged in this way.”

In Rare at The Blue Haven, diners can enjoy an intimate, fine-dining tasting menu experience featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with delicate flavours influenced by chef Meeran’s Tamil Nadu heritage. Diners may add a specially curated wine pairing to complement the experience.  

Rare joins other notable November additions from Ireland, including Landline Restaurant in Kerry and Matsukawa Restaurant in Dublin.

Keep up to date with the latest news by following Rare at Blue Haven on social at @rarekinsale.

Bookings can be made online at www.rare1784.ie, by calling 021 477 2209 or emailing bookings@bluehavenkinsale.com 

press release

Blarney Castle Gardens. November Frost

 Blarney Castle Gardens

November Frost

(Pics taken 26th Nov 2023)

Syntax. Ester Barrett

Sunshine. Leaves.

River. Castle

Blarney House

Cattle Grazing

James Whelan Butchers Opens 14th Shop, in Douglas, Cork

 James Whelan Butchers Expands with the Opening of 14th Shop, in Douglas, Cork

Welcome to James Whelan Butchers at Douglas Court . Pic: Karolina Winters

James Whelan Butchers, the renowned family-owned Irish butcher known for its commitment to quality and service, has this week opened its 14th shop in Douglas Court Shopping Centre, Cork. This new location represents not only a significant milestone for the business but also a promise to bring exceptional meat products to a vibrant community of food lovers in Douglas and the East Cork area. The shop will create over 20 new jobs and is part of a state of the art Food Hall at Dunnes Stores, Douglas Court Shopping Centre.

The new Food Hall will see some of Ireland’s leading artisan food brands coming together under one roof offering a shopping experience on par with global best standards. James Whelan Butchers will join other artisan food producers Sheridans Cheesemongers, Nourish Health Store, Baxter & Greene, Pizza List, Sushi Gourmet, and Offbeat Donuts.

The new team members at Douglas Court will embody the same passion for craftsmanship and dedication to excellence that has been the hallmark of James Whelan Butchers since the business was founded by James and Joan Whelan in the 1960s. 

Speaking on the launch of their 14th shop, CEO of James Whelan Butchers, Pat Whelan, stated:

“At James Whelan Butchers, we believe in the power of community and relationships. We are incredibly proud to be opening our 14th shop in Douglas which will allow us to connect with a whole new audience, sharing our passion for bringing the highest quality meats and exceptional service to more people. We look forward to becoming a cherished part of the Douglas community.”

Pat added: “This expansion would not have been possible without the very special partnerships we have nurtured with other like-minded food producers, who share the same ethos as us around sustainable food production. Nor would have been possible without our loyal customers and friends, some of whom have shopped with us since we first opened our doors in Clonmel almost 60 years ago.”

The new shop in Douglas Court Shopping Centre will feature a wide selection of James Whelan Butchers’ award winning signature aged meats, along with a range of artisan products that celebrate the richness of Irish agriculture. Each cut reflects our dedication to quality, innovation, and sustainability, ensuring that every customer enjoys an authentic and satisfying dining experience.

As the new shop opens, the team at Douglas Court would love to hear from people who may be interested in joining them in their new location. To find out more about career opportunities at the Douglas Court shop or at any of the other James Whelan Butchers shops, email careers@jwb.ie or visit www.jameswhelanbutchers.com.

James Whelan Butchers is now accepting Christmas orders both online and in-store. Also, as a special gift to customers, the team at James Whelan Butchers are offering free delivery on in-store orders over €100, featuring all the holiday dinner favourites, including slow-reared, free-range Irish turkey, traditional bone-in and boneless ham, and award-winning spiced beef.

press release

Beer Of The Week. Brehon Standstill Cold IPA

Brehon Standstill Cold IPA 5.0% ABV, 440 ml can Bradleys 

Remembering Italia Novante when the country came to a standstill!

We didn’t win a game…but that didn’t make a dent in the Italia 90 party in Ireland. Even the hosts’ winner, by Toto Schillachi (RIP), that sent us out at the quarterfinal stage was only a blip. 

We had built up enough credit for that massive party. As the Brehon brewery is based on a working dairy farm, they had to think ahead to view the final game. They recall on the can label, “the cows milked early, not a car on the road, a whole nation around the TV”. A complete standstill! 

Great times, and two decades later, Brehon collaborated with Italian brewery Birraffico Gregorio to deliver this beautiful cold IPA. “Call it burying the hatchet,” they say. But as there never was a hatchet, they called it Standstill instead!

This cold IPA, light gold with streams of bubbles rising towards a white foamy head, combines lager's crisp and refreshing qualities with the bold, hoppy flavours typically found in traditional IPAs, something that bit different for real beer drinkers. Those vibrant hop notes, immediatly noticeble, are balanced with a clean malt backbone. 

Brewed with a lager yeast, the aim was to highlight the hop flavours. It is a refreshing, light-bodied beer featuring notes of tangerine and grapefruit with subtle undertones of pine and citrus. It's ideal for both seasoned IPA drinkers and those new to the style. The chilled fermentation process gives it a smooth, perfectly crisp finish. Very Highly Recommended and Beer of the Week.

* What are your favourites from our 2024 Beer of the Week list? Check it out here.

Stellar Flare. Festive Flourishes. Greene’s Current Set Menu. Based on outstanding local produce.

Stellar Flare. Festive Flourishes. Greene’s Current Set Menu

Based on outstanding local produce.

Cod

Greene's newly introduced Christmas set menu features several delicious festive options. For those who prefer to stick with their favourites, don’t worry—classic dishes like Steak on the Stone and Quigley Lamb Shank are still available.

We just happened to be at the menu’s unveiling last Tuesday, and we gave it a big thumbs-up. The food was outstanding, and while the portions were generous, we enjoyed the meal without feeling overly stuffed at the end.

Spiced beef

With a glass of Monte Cacada, an oak-aged Portuguese red blend, in hand and some delicious bread to nibble on, we examined the menu, which included three courses (plus a side) and coffee or tea for €59.00. They asked us to choose our dessert initially, and we paid special attention to that section!

For starters, one of the options was Turkey and Ham Hock Terrine along with Chicken Liver Pâté. CL was particularly keen on the traditional Cork Spiced Beet dish, a Christmas favourite in the area. Greene’s take on it elevated the dish with the beautifully presented beef, accompanied by pickles, celeriac remoulade, and Coolea cheese fondue—a fantastic combination!

Duck

Beetroot and Goat Cheese is a popular pairing in Cork City and beyond, especially with cheese from the local Ardsallagh farm. As always, Greene’s Head Chef, Nicolas Javier Alegre, added his own twist, resulting in the delightful Waterfall Farm Beetroot Risotto with Crispy Beetroot and Ardsallagh Goat Cheese. This dish definitely earns five out of five!

For my main course, I chose the Confit Duck Leg from the fabulous Skeaghanore Farm in West Cork. It came with Caramelised Red Cabbage, Colcannon Mash, and Cranberry Sauce, making for a beautifully dressed, festive meal packed with flavour.

Baked Alaska

Across the table was a beautifully cooked piece of cod, served with spinach and a creamy sauce. From a selection of seven sides, CL chose Colcannon while I opted for Fries.

Now, onto the sweet ending! They offer four tempting desserts along with an Irish Farmhouse Cheese Selection. My colleague chose the Orange Crepes Suzette, which featured orange sauce and mascarpone—a true gem worth trying.

Crèpe

Some restaurants may compromise on dessert quality, but not Greene’s. I highly recommend their Sticky Date Pudding with Toffee Brandy Sauce and Vanilla Ice Cream—a delightful treat. 

I skipped that this time and went for the Baked Alaska (Christmas Pudding and Brandy Custard Ice Cream), which brought a festive feeling in November. The ambience was enhanced by the waterfall flowing over the red sandstone outside the floor-to-ceiling windows, the cosy interior with its calm, warm lighting, and the friendly and efficient service throughout our meal.

Pre Service Calm in Greene's

FULL IRISH BACK IN BOTTLES WITH EIGHT DEGREES. Better, bigger and bottled

media release

BACK IN BOTTLES WITH EIGHT DEGREES

Full Irish IPA is better, bigger, and bottled

Eight Degrees Brewing has just released its newest beer – Double Irish Double IPA – in bottle format. The independent Irish microbrewery based in Mitchelstown, Co Cork, has taken customer-favourite Full Irish IPA, packed it with even more hops and amped it up to 7% ABV. It’s big, bold and naturally adventurous. It’s also only available in 500ml bottles.

“This is something that people have asked us for many times over the years,” says founder / owner Cam Wallace. “We started off in 330ml bottles, moved into 440ml cans - with a few limited edition detours to 750ml bottles en route! - and now, with a new bottling line recently installed, our 500ml bottles are out there in the world.”

“The Double Irish DIPA was a natural choice for the 500ml bottle,” adds co-founder / owner Scott Baigent. “We also wanted to showcase a bright and fresh new label design and we’re delighted with the feedback that we’ve been getting from retailers and customers.”

The brewery has also released three other beers from its core range in bottle format with the new label design: Howling Gale Irish Pale Ale, Citra Single Hop IPA and Full Irish IPA. These will also be available in 440ml can format.

It’s been a busy time at Eight Degrees with the release of Déjà vu Hopfenweisse, The Crux Double IPA and Cumulus Lupulus Cloudy IPA over the last eight months, getting back into the beer festival swing of things, opening the brewery for popular Friday afternoon tours and installing a new bottling machine.

“It’s a challenging time across the board for those of us in the independent microbrewery world,” says Baigent. “But we’re happy to be back at Eight Degrees with our fantastic team, focusing on producing a great core range and having fun brewing new beers.”

“The eighteen months where we weren’t working in the brewery just feels like a very strange dream now,” adds Wallace. “It’s good to be back in beer!”

Wallace's dream team

For more information:
Scott Baigent: scott@eightdegrees.ie
Cam Wallace: cam@eightdegrees.ie

About Eight Degrees Brewing
An award-winning Irish microbrewery renowned for its innovation and experimentation, Eight Degrees was founded in 2010 by Scott Baigent and Cam Wallace. The brewery, which has always been based in Mitchelstown, North Cork, was acquired by Irish Distillers in 2018. It was bought back by Baigent and Wallace in late 2023. They continue to work with the same core brewery team to release a selection of consistently Naturally Adventurous beers.
www.eightdegrees.ie

 

THE METROPOLE HOTEL LAUNCHES NEW WINTER PACKAGE AIMED AT COUPLES OR FRIENDS

 press release 

hotelsxmas24

THE METROPOLE HOTEL LAUNCHES NEW WINTER PACKAGE AIMED AT COUPLES OR FRIENDS 

The Metropole Hotel has launched a winter warmer package deal for couples or friends.

The Sip, Savour and Stay package for two includes an artisan charcuterie board with cheese and meats selected from local producers. It also includes a bottle of house wine, an overnight stay and breakfast the next morning. 

The Metropole Hotel is located in the heart of the VQ area of Cork City, which includes a range of bars, restaurants, cafes, shops and entertainment. 

The Sip, Savour and Stay package for two adults is from €199 per stay. It includes:

• Bed & Full Irish breakfast

• Charcuterie board for 2 people sharing

• Bottle of house wine

Pierce Lowney, Director of Food and Beverage at Trigon Hotels said: “We hope friends or couples will avail of the current offer for the winter months. It’s ideal for a break away for couples or a nice stayover after shopping for the festive season to catch up with friends. We are immensely proud of the artisan charcuterie board - we put a lot of focus on food and where we source it from in the hotel and it’s reflected in this offering.”

 

The package can be booked at: https://www.themetropolehotel.ie/offers/winter-breaks-cork/

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UNWRAP THE MAGIC OF THE SEASON AT ANANTARA THE MARKER DUBLIN HOTEL

Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel invites guests to indulge in the ultimate festive retreat in

the heart of Dublin’s vibrant Docklands. From Christmas Eve through to New Year's Day,

this contemporary five-star hotel offers a luxurious haven for those seeking a memorable

festive escape. With a variety of Christmas and New Year’s Eve packages now available,

Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel promises an unforgettable festive experience filled with

elegance and more than a dash of Irish charm and warm hospitality. Start a new tradition with

family and friends and choose from some of the hotel’s fabulous festive offerings including

residential stays over Christmas and New Year’s or enjoy a festive dining experience.

Overlooking the waterfront on Grand Canal Square and adjacent to the famous Bord

Gáis Energy Theatre, the hotel in the heart of Dublin emanates luxurious, international cool.

The recently renovated bedrooms include elegant suites and family rooms while the award

winning hotel restaurant, Forbes Street by Gareth Mullins offers exceptional dishes prepared

using local produce. Signature dishes include treats such as Flaggy Shore Oysters, John Stone

T-Bone steaks infused with Pearse Lyons Whiskey and Irish artisan cheese selections with

figs and Irish lavender. Pre theatre dining is also available and is very popular with guests

attending various shows, including this year’s Christmas family favourite, Mary Poppins.

Facilities include the Condé Nast award-winning Anantara Spa, which features an infinity

swimming pool, hydro pool, sauna, eucalyptus-infused steam room, and a full fitness suite

and gym. The spa will remain open right throughout the festivities and has some wonderful

treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate tired minds and bodies.

The two-night Ultimate Christmas Indulgence residential package offers guests the perfect

festive retreat. Priced from €270 per person per night this package includes an overnight stay

on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, welcome drinks on arrival, a sumptuous four course

Christmas lunch or dinner and live entertainment.

For families, a special treat awaits with festive movies and games being shown in the Kids’

Room while a dedicated children’s menu is also available.

The Christmas Day lunch is served in Forbes Street in three sittings at 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm, and

7:00 pm, with a delectable menu that includes traditional favourites. The Marker Bar and

Lounge will be open exclusively for hotel guests, offering an artisanal cheese grazing table

and a full bar menu for guests to enjoy at their leisure throughout the day.

As the year draws to a close, Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel offers a spectacular setting

for a festive celebration. On December 31st, guests can check in from 3:00 pm and are

welcomed with a glass of bubbly on arrival. A fabulous four-course dinner will be served in

Forbes Street, followed by live music. After dinner, guests can head to the iconic rooftop bar

which offers stunning panoramic 360º views across the cityscape stretching to the sea at

Dublin Bay. The famous rooftop is the place to be on New Year’s Eve and offers the best

vantage point for guests to see the skies of Dublin come alive with fireworks. The New

Year’s Eve Gala four-course evening menu is priced at €120 per person for guests dining in

Forbes Street and €70 per person for three courses in the Marker Bar & Lounge. (New Year’s

Eve stay and dine packages costs from €270 per person).

Festive Afternoon Tea

The hotel’s Festive Afternoon Tea will be served in the Marker Bar & Lounge from the 26 th

of November until 31st of December. It is a lovely experience to enjoy when combined with a

spot of Christmas shopping in the city centre and is priced from €65 per person. Inspired by

Ireland’s most beloved poets and iconic destinations, Chef Gareth Mullin’s delicate creations

take on a festive twist, featuring treats like The Snowball, a Black Forest delight, The

Christmas Wreath, decadent choux buns filled with chocolate, and a contemporary version of

the Yule Log with candy cane macaroon and white chocolate ganache. Savoury options

include delicate sandwiches with Burren Organic Irish Oak Smoked Salmon, roast beef with

Achill Island Sea Salt and delicious corn-fed chicken with tarragon mayonnaise.

Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel is the ideal destination to celebrate the holidays in style,

with impeccable service and festive flair at every turn. Christmas gift vouchers are also

available to purchase for that someone special.

For more information or to book your festive escape, visit www.anantara.com/en/ireland or

call (01) 6875 100.

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TRIGON HOTELS INVITE GUESTS TO AVAIL OF BLACK FRIDAY DEALS

Trigon Hotels has launched details of this year’s Black Friday Sale, which includes deals at The Metropole Hotel in Cork City and the Cork International Hotel.

Customers can avail of 20% off room only and B&B at the Metropole Hotel and 15% off room only and B&B at the Cork International Hotel. There is also 10% off gift vouchers at both hotels.

The sale runs until Monday, December 2nd and the rates are available throughout 2024 and 2025, subject to availability.

The historic Metropole Hotel is located in Cork City’s bustling VQ area and the hotel is within walking distance of a wide range of shops, bars, restaurants, cafes and entertainment. 

The Cork International Hotel is beside Cork Airport and caters for families and those who are looking to extend their holiday by an extra night.

Aaron Mansworth, General Manager of Trigon Hotels, said; “The Metropole Hotel is the perfect location for a city break, whether that’s for a couple or a group of friends while the Cork International Hotel offers a fantastic getaway for families who want to explore the attractions on offer around Cork. We hope our Black Friday Sale will give visitors an extra reason to come to The Rebel County.”

The Black Friday Sale is available online at https://www.corkinternationalairporthotel.com/  and  https://www.themetropolehotel.ie

CORK INTERNATIONAL HOTEL LAUNCHES BLACK FRIDAY DEALS

The Cork International Hotel opens its Black Friday Sale this Friday, November 15th. 

Customers can avail of 15% off room only and B&B and 10% off hotel vouchers. The sale runs until Monday, November 25th and the rates are available from Friday, November 15th throughout 2024 and 2025, subject to availability.

The Cork International Hotel is geared towards families with a Family Concierge available to ensure parents and their children are well taken care of throughout their stay. They can also avail of the play room and cinema which is located just a few steps away from the bedrooms.

The hotel is an ASD aware hotel and caters for families with extra needs.

Located next to Cork Airport, the hotel is also a favourite with people who want to extend their holiday by another night, particularly if they have an early departure or late arrival at the airport.

The menu at the New Yorker restaurant is crafted using fresh produce from local suppliers.

General Manager of the Cork International Hotel Eoghan Murphy said: “Black Friday has become a hugely important date on the calendar for the hospitality sector as people seek out the best deals for a short break away during the upcoming year. The Cork International Hotel has lots to offer families and Black Friday is always one of our most popular deals.”

The Black Friday is available on the hotel’s website https://www.corkinternationalairporthotel.com/ 

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COLLEGE GREEN HOTEL DUBLIN, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION 

LAUNCHES FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA EXPERIENCE 

Overview

Festive Signature Afternoon Tea Midweek (Mon – Thurs) €59 Weekend (Fri/Sat/Sun) €65 per person

v  Festive Peculiar Afternoon Tea Midweek (Mon – Thurs) €65 Weekend (Fri/Sat/Sun) €75 per person

v  Festive Champagne Afternoon Tea Midweek (Mon – Thurs) €79 Weekend (Fri/Sat/Sun) €85 per person

v  Excluding 25th December. T & C’s apply.

 

From delicious festive afternoon teas to lunches, dinners, soirées, and stayovers, the College Green Hotel Dublin Autograph Collection provides an idyllic venue for those looking to get into the festive swing in style.

The College Green Hotel Dublin invites you to indulge in its remarkable Festive Afternoon Tea starting Monday, November 18th, 2024. Enjoy a relaxing gathering by the cosy crackling fire in the beautiful Atrium Lounge. Indulge in a selection of sweet and savoury delicacies paired with the finest loose-leaf teas, featuring their exquisite new signature blend – The College Green Tea. You may also enhance your experience with a celebratory glass of Perrier-Jouët champagne.

The Festive Afternoon Tea menu is utterly delightful, offering a delectable selection of savoury and sweet bites, including traditional favourites such as Maple Glazed Turkey, Chive and Citrus Salad on a White Irish Loaf and Irish Smoked Salmon, Dill Caperberry Cream Cheese, Baked Guinness Bread (plus other delicious options) and for the sweet-toothed there’s a selection of cakes, in-house baked buttermilk scones with traditional accompaniments, plus an impressive array of sweet treats including Lemon & Hazelnut Tart, Citrus and Honey, Candied Hazelnuts;  70% Dark Chocolate and Orange Crunch, Burnt Orange Peel; Festive Spiced Pear Mousse, Sweet Sable Base;  College Green Tea Infused Panna Cotta, Crunchy Oat Granola & White Chocolate; Pecan and Maple Caramel Pie, Pecan Popping Candy. Sample menu HERE.

At weekends, The Festive Afternoon Tea is accompanied by the dulcet tones of the hotel’s resident pianist from 12-4 pm (Sat & Sun). The Festive Afternoon Tea costs MIDWEEK (Mon-Thurs) €59 and €65 per person (Fri/Sat/Sun) and €79 midweek and €85 (Fri/Sat/Sun) to include a glass of Perrier Jouët champagne per person. A Festive Peculiar Afternoon Tea Midweek (Mon – Thurs) €65 Weekend (Fri/Sat/Sun) €75 per person

For reservations or more information, please contact +353 1 645 1000 or email theatrium@thecollegegreenhotel.com

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METROPOLE HOTEL INVITES GUESTS TO 

CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS IN THE HEART OF CORK CITY

 

The Metropole Hotel is getting into the festive spirit as team members prepare for this year’s Christmas Experience. Guests will be able to enjoy a range of treats across Christmas Eve and Christmas Day including a five-course Christmas dinner and a visit from Santa Claus for the younger guests.

 

All guests will receive a welcome pack along with a mince pie and mulled wine when checking in. They will find a Christmas card and gift, decoration and a festive cookie in their room upon arrival.

 

The celebrations kick off with a three-course meal in the restaurant on Christmas Eve, while people will gather to celebrate together in the recently renovated ballroom to enjoy a five course lunch on Christmas Day. Breakfast will be served every morning, and an evening buffet supper will be available on Christmas Day.

 

The package includes a Christmas cocktail, which will be served in the bar, plus a prosecco reception and a bottle of wine to share with Christmas lunch.

 

There will be a schedule of entertainment throughout Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and guests will be able to watch festive movies in the cinema room or relax in the reading library. 

 

Pierce Lowney, Director of Food and Beverage at Trigon Hotels said: “Christmas is an exciting time at the hotel and our team pulls out all the stops to ensure guests, young and old, have an extra special stay. We see many regular faces during the festive season and we always love to welcome new guests to join the celebrations. Whether it's a family or a person on their own, we try to make sure everyone has a memorable Christmas when they walk through the door of the Metropole Hotel.”

 

The hotel will close to the public, except for residential guests, at 3pm on Christmas Eve and reopen at 12pm on December 27th.

 

There are two and three-night Christmas Experience packages available and prices start from €890 per stay. Single occupancy and triple occupancy packages are available and guests can avail of parking for the duration of their stay.

 

Bookings can be made at https://www.themetropolehotel.ie/offer/christmas-2-night-stay/

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RING IT IN

AT THE LIMERICK STRAND HOTEL

Package Overview

RATE: From €215 per person per night to include:

• Luxurious overnight stay in a superior room for two adults sharing

·      A glass of bubbly before dinner
• Four-course New Year’s Eve dinner at the River Bar Restaurant with stunning river & city views
• Sumptuous breakfast

• Access to Energize Health Club for a rejuvenating experience
• Exclusive discount codes for local attractions

The Limerick Strand Hotel is renowned for its terrific atmosphere, especially during the holidays. There’s no better place to wind up and wind down, and on New Year’s Eve, they will set the celebratory scene from check-in to check-out.

Stay over on 31st December and spend the afternoon discovering the hotel's amenities. Take a dip in the indoor heated pool or explore Limerick’s top attractions like King John’s Castle, all within a short stroll from the hotel, enhanced with the hotel’s exclusive discount codes.  Perhaps stroll along the picturesque Three Bridges Walk, soaking in Limerick’s scenic beauty, or explore the city's shops.

On your return, relax in the comfort of your luxurious room or get your glam on at Niall Colgan Hairdressing or Namaste Skin Clinic & Urban Day Spa, with both offering discounts for residents with pre-booking.  That evening, head to the buzzing River Bar and Restaurant for a quick glass of bubbly and a four-course dinner, showcasing the culinary team’s passion for their location by using fresh, high-quality, seasonal food and partnering with provincial farms and dairies wherever possible.  Celebrate the arrival of 2025 with live music that keeps the city's pulse alive all night long. Enjoy a delicious breakfast the morning after the night before as you enter the New Year with great new memories made.

New Year’s Eve at The Limerick Strand costs €215 per adult sharing, including overnight accommodation, a glass of bubbly, a four-course dinner with entertainment and breakfast before departure.

For details more details on the Festive Experiences, please see Christmas. To make a reservation, call 061 421800 or Christmas@strandlimerick.ie. 

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Celebrate the magic of the holiday season this December at The College Green Hotel Dublin.

Package Overview

·       Festive Splendour is valid from Sunday, December 1^st, to Sunday, 22nd. It includes luxurious overnight accommodation, a welcome seasonal drink in The Atrium Lounge or The Mint Bar, and a delicious breakfast at Morelands Grill before departure. Prices start from € 395 for a Double room per night.

 

To book your December stay, contact reservations@thecollegegreendublin.com

 

¨     December in Dublin is rather magical. From twinkling lights and atmospheric stores to buzzing nightlife, it’s the place to soak up the festive feels. What better place to stay than in the heart of the city at the luxuriously located five-star The College Green Hotel Dublin, Autograph Collection (formerly The Westin, Dublin)?

Famous for its extraordinary Christmas lights and décor, this beautiful hotel is offering a rather special overnight experience from Sunday, December 1^st, to Sunday, December 22^nd, inclusive, for those looking to shop, entertain, or be entertained. Grab your partner, treat your mum or best pal, or round up the troops and book a magical night away.

December in the city is buzzing with a whirlwind of events, from captivating theatre performances to delightful family pantomimes and spectacular concerts.  The hotel is ideally located, overlooking Trinity College and a short stroll to the atmospheric Grafton Street, where you can enjoy the incredible ambience and shop for all your Christmas gifting needs. Here, too, you can gaze at the incredible Dublin Winter Lights installations, which transform the city with epic light features on iconic landmarks, buildings and bridges, where people of all generations can bask in the glow of specially commissioned dynamic, colourful and imaginative light projections by leading artists.

Upon check-in, you will be welcomed into the hotel's impressive lobby, adorned with beautifully lit trees, ornate decorations, and warm lighting. From there, you will be escorted to your luxurious accommodation to start your relaxing break. Before exploring the city's nightlife, you can enjoy a complimentary drink in The Atrium Lounge or in the charming Mint Bar. After a night out, return to the comfort of your stunning room, featuring characteristic Irish décor. Each room offers modern comforts and special touches, such as luxury bathrobes, slippers, and Italian marble bathrooms with a rainfall shower and a separate tub for two. Guests can also savour a new exclusive bespoke tea offering in the comfort of their rooms, which is a sophisticated blend of Darjeeling, elderflower, and lemon verbena. Spend the morning relaxing in the luxury of your room before enjoying a delicious breakfast in Morelands Grill before departure.

Festive Splendour is valid from 1st December until 22nd December, with luxurious overnight accommodation, a welcome drink in The Atrium Lounge or Mint Bar, and a delicious breakfast at Morelands Grill before departure, double from €395 per night.

ALL ABOARD FOR THE FESTIVE FOODIE EXPERIENCE AT THE GLENLO ABBEY HOTEL & ESTATE

Overnight package from €339 per room to include

¨     One night's luxurious accommodation

¨     A la carte breakfast each morning for two people

¨     Festive Foodie Experience in The Pullman Kitchen

 

5* Glenlo Abbey Hotel Galway has created a rather special experience for those looking to elevate their hosting skills for the holiday season.

From 8th November to 23rd December (Wednesday-Sunday stays only), the award-winning culinary team will take you behind the scenes to demonstrate various techniques and share recipes for you to replicate at home to impress everyone during the season. The Festive Foodie package includes a luxury overnight stay and a delicious breakfast before departure. 

The experience will operate each Wednesday to Sunday from noon for 45 minutes in The Pullman Kitchen, the beating heart of The Pullman Restaurant, comprised of two original carriages from the Orient Express, beautifully restored and set on the grounds of the hotel. Converted into a wonderful restaurant car retaining all its original character, this historic Pullman train carriage resided at Elsenham Station in Hertfordshire, England, before joining the many varied facilities already available at Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate Galway. Once aboard The Pullman Kitchen, guests will see the chefs prepare a selection of beautifully presented canapés with seasonal flair and demonstrate how to create the perfect brine for turkey, highlighting the importance of seasoning tips and their impact on the finished dish! They will also provide a step-by-step guide to making chutney with Christmas spices to complement a carefully selected cheese board and a seasonal cake to finish off the occasion. Full recipe cards will be available for guests to take home, with a delicious jar of Christmas chutney to savour over the holidays and a Glenlo Abbey embroidered apron to remember the day and use with pride in your kitchen.

Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate is one of Ireland's most luxurious hotels, a proud member of Ireland's Blue Book, small luxury hotels, and part of the Irish-owned and managed MHL Hotel Collection. It is just two miles from Galway City and boasts magnificent views overlooking Lough Corrib on a 138-acre estate.

Glenlo Abbey’s Team will be delighted to assist you with any queries by telephone at Tel Intl +353 (0) 91 519600. Or Email: stay@glenloabbey.ie

Alternatively, visit www.glenloabbeyhotel.ie for more information or to purchase gift vouchers online.  

FESTIVE DINING AT THE LIMERICK STRAND HOTEL

THE MUNSTER MILE MENU

River Restaurant and Bar

 

A warm, festive welcome awaits you at the award-winning River Bar &  Restaurant at The Limerick Strand Hotel offering a magical setting for 2024 seasonal dining.

They take their food very seriously at The Limerick Strand Hotel, and Executive Head Chef Paddy Anslow is unconditionally supportive of all things local. He is always on the lookout for new local suppliers and gives a helping hand to small artisan producers. Passion for their location is evident on all menus, and for more than 10 years, they have been at the forefront of the ‘farm to fork’ and traceability food evolution.  NEW for the 2024 season is their “Munster Mile” menu, where dishes noted with an M logo are made with 100% Munster-only goods, celebrating its rich agricultural traditions and diverse range of local produce. By using fresh, high-quality, seasonal food and partnering with provincial farms and dairies wherever possible, they ensure that guests enjoy a taste of the nearby Wild Atlantic Way in the heart of the Golden Vale.

The Limerick Strand Hotel has been the heartbeat of Christmas in the city for more years than they care to remember. It is by far the most popular and atmospheric venue for generational gatherings, fun party nights, and reconnecting with family and friends over the festive season. For those looking to enjoy the run-up to Christmas in style, a delicious Festive Afternoon Tea, seasonal lunch, or dinner at the award-winning River Bar & Restaurant is the perfect choice. There’s no better place to enjoy a cocktail after a hard day’s gift shopping or to treat your nearest and dearest to a delectable feast. Throughout December, on weekends, the River Bar & Restaurant plays host to some local talent, with live entertainment adding an uplifting atmosphere to your dining occasion.

The Limerick Strand Hotel is the perfect spot to enjoy your Festive Afternoon Tea while overlooking the River Shannon and the twinkling lights of the city. Indulge in a three-tiered platter of exquisite finger sandwiches, served alongside freshly baked warm award-winning scones, clotted cream and jam, and a selection of festive pastries and treats expertly created by the in-house pastry team. Available daily in December from 2 pm to 4 pm at €36 per adult and €16.95 per child.

To avoid disappointment, why not book ahead and secure a table to enjoy their famous group festive lunch and dinner options available from Tuesday, November 22nd to Sunday, December 24th? Lunch Menu is available 7 days a week, from 12 pm to 4 pm, at €42 per person for 3 Courses or €37 per person for 2 Courses. The 3-course Festive Dinner Menu is also available 7 days a week, priced at €53 or €48 for a 2-course option per person. The festive menus are available for group bookings only (10+ people) from Monday to Saturday.

The amazing Festive Sunday Lunch is available from Sunday, November 24th. This delicious 4-course Sunday Lunch Buffet features a festive twist to get you in the mood for merriment! Arrive in style as you are greeted by the expert team with a glass of bubbly or mulled wine before enjoying your sumptuous buffet feast. Rumour has it that the big man himself will pay a special visit each Sunday. Reservations are available from 1 pm to 5 pm and include a glass of mulled wine or prosecco on arrival for adults and a selection box for each child. The experience costs €39.50 per adult and €16.95 per child (kids under 5 years old go free).

Booking is strongly advised for all Festive Dining Experiences. Bookings can be made online or via reservation call 061 421800 or email reservations@strandlimerick.ie.

Locals can enjoy the famously festive 4 course Christmas Eve Luncheon in the Shannon Suite with live music from Limerick’s renowned crooner, Liam O’Brien. There’s also a magic show and a meet & greet with the main man himself, Santa Claus! Choice of buffet lunch and family entertainment from €55 per adult €25 per child (kids under 5 years go free) or enjoy a select lunch or dinner menu at The River Bar & Restaurant. On Christmas Day, there is a festive dining package (€175 per adult, child 5-12 yrs €70, with under 5 dining free of charge, excludes Santa gift) complete with live music by crooner Liam O’Brien and singer Jayne Frazer plus a gift for each child. Advanced booking and pre-payment are required.

For details on Christmas 2023 at The Limerick Strand Hotel, please see

Christmas. To make a reservation, call 061 421800 or Christmas@strandlimerick.ie. Visit www.strandlimerick.ie.