Tuesday, November 12, 2024

Anthony Cresswell of Ummera and the lads at the Lifeboat Inn honoured at the Good Food Ireland Awards

press release

Anthony Cresswell of Ummera and the lads at the Lifeboat Inn honoured 

 the Good Food Ireland® Awards 2024. In association with FBD Insurance.
Three cheers for Anthony!



West Cork’s The Lifeboat Inn was named Pub of the Year and Co. Cork businessman Anthony Creswell of Ummera Smoked Products was honoured with the Outstanding Contribution to Food Production Award at the prestigious Good Food Ireland® Awards 2024 in association with FBD Insurance as the Awards’ worthy winners were announced during a high-profile ceremony at The K Club in Co. Kildare on Monday (11 November).

The Awards celebrate businesses at every layer of Ireland’s food and drink industry. From primary producers, manufacturers, and chefs, to shops, hotels, tourism experiences, and restaurants, those businesses who made the shortlist and went onto become winners are regarded by the judges as embodying all that makes Ireland’s food and drink offering so standout. 

More than 300 attendees including Irish and international chefs, buyers, food and drink writers, media and industry leaders enjoyed a five course gala dinner designed by The K Club’s Executive Chef Gary O’Hanlon inspired by our island’s landscape and seascape showcasing the freshest of ingredients from Irish suppliers.

 

The Master Smoker behind Ummera Smoked Products in Cork, Anthony Creswell, was recognised for his Outstanding Contribution to Food Production; a particularly poignant moment of the ceremony following his retirement from the 50-year-old family business which ceased trading exactly one month ago to the day on 11th October 2024.  The award honoured Anthony for his family’s significant contribution to the Irish food scene and for his unwavering commitment to traditional smoking methods, sustainability and local sourcing. His dedication to excellence and quality craftsmanship, along with his innovative approach to flavour, has elevated Irish Smoked Salmon to international acclaim, not only celebrated for its exceptional taste but also highlighting Ireland’s culinary heritage. By championing Good Food Ireland®  through his sustainable practices and support for local farmers and fishermen, Anthony has helped promote Irish food culture both at home and abroad, and is a key figure in the Ireland’s gastronomic landscape.

Meanwhile, West Cork’s The Lifeboat Inn in the tranquil village of Courtmacsherry was declared Pub of the Year for representing the very best of Irish food and culture, taking the Irish pub experience to a whole different level of excellence.

 

Winners were selected through mystery inspections and assessments of those businesses approved by Good Food Ireland® and shortlisted by an independent panel of Irish and international leaders including Founder and Managing Director of Good Food Ireland® Margaret Jeffares, former Good Food Ireland® Operations Director Susan Kerr, journalist John Wilson, hospitality consultant Tom O’Connell, lecturer in the School of Hospitality Management & Tourism at TU Dublin Dr Detta Melia, Executive Chairman and Owner of Odyssey International Kevin Shannon, and previous chef and hotelier Maurice Keller.

The epitome of the Irish pub experience. Congrats to David (centre) and Martin (right).

Margaret Jeffares, Founder and Managing Director of Good Food Ireland® said: "To say that deciding on the winners from our magnificent shortlist of businesses from across the island of Ireland has been tough this year would be a huge understatement. We’ve seen a notable rise in confidence in the tourism and hospitality industry to prioritise Irish ingredients due to customers being far more vocal about wanting to see Irish produce on the menu. Awareness around sustainability has increased across the board and utilising local food and drink is a fundamental way to assist sustainable goals as well as helping hotels and restaurants provide their clientele with true taste of their region. All these factors combined have given Irish farmers, fishermen and food and drink producers a renewed sense of purpose and desire to innovate.

“So many of our winners this year are second or third generation family-run businesses who make up the very foundation of what’s so special about Ireland’s food and drink.  It is important to utilise our island’s own businesses and resources wherever possible, as well as keeping every layer of our food and drink industry exciting and dynamic in order to bring the next generation to the table. We’d like to congratulate every single one of this year’s worthy winners and thank them for their incredible service in promoting Ireland’s wonderful food and drink scene.”

FBD Insurance is the official partner of this year’s awards which are also proudly sponsored by: Tourism Ireland, Bord Bia, AIB, National Dairy Council, BIM, Roe & Co, Boursot Wines, and Waterford, along with The K Club, Co. Kildare as Host Partner .

See the full list of winners below. For more details about the awards and general information about Good Food Ireland® visit goodfoodireland.ie



FULL 2024 GOOD FOOD IRELAND® AWARDS WINNERS

5* HOTEL OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY WATERFORD

WINNER – THE MERRION, DUBLIN

A hotel that has achieved a harmonious balance between culinary excellence, sourcing the finest local ingredients that push the boundaries of traditional gastronomy, luxurious surroundings, beautifully appointed rooms, state-of-the-art amenities and exceptional service, creating an unforgettable experience for its guests. 

CULINARY HAVEN OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY WATERFORD

WINNER – CASTLE LESLIE ESTATE, MONAGHAN

This award recognises exceptional experience; in itself a food and drink destination that epitomises culinary excellence, highlighting the very best of local Irish produce

4* HOTEL OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY WINE CONSULTANTS IRELAND

WINNER – KELLY’S RESORT HOTEL & SPA, WEXFORD

A hotel that delivers a high-quality dining experience, showcasing seasonal, Irish produce, together with an approach that celebrates Ireland’s rich traditions and hospitality.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY WINE CONSULTANTS IRELAND

WINNER – AN PORT MOR, MAYO

A strong emphasis on seasonal Irish ingredients, whereby the Chef’s creativity consistently demonstrates an aptitude for bringing out the integrity of the ingredients and successfully marrying those flavours as a complete dish.  Warmth of hospitality, exceptional service, together with great food that truly makes for a memorable dining experience.  

HOTEL RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY WINE CONSULTANTS IRELAND

WINNER – FORBES STREET BY GARETH MULLINS, ANANTARA THE MARKER DUBLIN 

Recognises excellence in hotel dining and honours culinary talent and innovation, showcasing Irish cuisine, sustainability, or regional specialties, considering factors such as food quality, service and ambiance.

CAFÉ OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY BALLYMALOE FOODS

WINNER – THE SILVER RESTAURANT AT NEWBRIDGE SILVERWARE, KILDARE 

A clear demonstration of home-baked, in-house cooking or production with a passionate commitment to Irish produce, good old-fashioned Irish hospitality and a go to place for visitors and locals alike.

PUB OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY ROE & CO.

WINNER – THE LIFEBOAT INN, CORK

A pub that represents the very best of Irish food and culture, one that takes the Irish pub experience to a whole different level of excellence. Showcasing local Irish produce, with a consideration for traditional or speciality Irish dishes, supplemented by home-baked breads, cakes and desserts. A drinks selection of local Irish beers, spirits, drinks and beverages including Irish fruit cordials and juice, complemented by Irish Snacks and Crisps. A pub where people are immersed in another world of warmth, conversation, laughter and fun. What we Irish call ‘the craic’.

SHOP OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY IRISH CENTRAL

WINNER – BROGAN'S BUTCHERS, MEATH

A Shop offering a selection of quality Irish food and/or drink, that shares the stories of the people and places behind it. A shop that celebrates Irish biodiversity and creates a better environment for cooking, eating and beyond.

SUSTAINABILITY AWARD – SPONSORED BY AIB

AGRI - FOOD WINNER – BROOK HALL ESTATE, DERRY

TOURISM HOSPITALITY WINNER – GROW HQ, WATERFORD

Through the Good Food Ireland® philosophy every approved business contributes to economic sustainability, benefitting local communities and safeguarding the future livelihoods of local people. This Award goes even further, recognising businesses for their environmental or social sustainability, businesses that have developed and implemented clean production initiatives and sustainable practices, demonstrating how they are helping to protect Ireland’s environment and greater wellbeing for the long-term benefit of all.

 

PRODUCER AWARDS

These Awards recognise producers for their premium produce and commitment to Irish provenance, leading the field in their production ethos, cultivation and catch practices and the top-quality produce it results in. We’ve acknowledged producers with a focus on environmental sustainability, preservation and collaboration with the local community.

MEAT PRODUCER OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY FBD INSURANCE

WINNER – KELLY'S OF NEWPORT, MAYO 

 

FRUIT & VEGETABLE PRODUCER OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY FBD INSURANCE

WINNER – KEARNS FRUIT FARM, WEXFORD 

 

FISH & SEAFOOD PRODUCER OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY BORD IASCALGH MHARA

WINNER – REALT NA MARA SHELLFISH, KERRY

 

DRINKS PRODUCER OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY THE K CLUB

WINNER – LONG MEADOW CIDER, ARMAGH 

 

DAIRY PRODUCER OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY THE NATIONAL DAIRY COUNCIL

WINNER – FREEZIN’ FRIESIAN, WATERFORD 

 

SWEET & SAVOURY PRODUCER OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY IRISH CENTRAL

WINNER – LEAHY BEEKEEPING, GALWAY 

 

BAKERY & CHOCOLATE PRODUCER OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY THE K CLUB

WINNER – THE CHOCOLATE GARDEN OF IRELAND, CARLOW

 

OVERALL PRODUCER OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY BORD BIA

WINNER – KELLY'S OF NEWPORT, MAYO 

A food or drink producer who has made a positive impact on the Irish food and/or drink industry, promoting the use of high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and demonstrating a strong emphasis on using social media to tell their story and the story of Irish farming and food/drink production to a domestic and global audience.  

FOOD INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY AIB

WINNER – THE O’ NEILL FAMILY, MOUNTAIN VIEW, KILKENNY 

The Good Food Ireland® Food Innovator of the Year is a person with a unique ability to think outside the box who develops new and innovative food products, concepts or techniques. They are willing to try new ingredients, techniques and flavour combinations, adapting to changing trends and preferences while maintaining their own unique style. They are often at the forefront of culinary trends, creating unique and exciting dining experiences. 

EXCELLENCE IN FOOD TOURISM AWARD – SPONSORED BY TOURISM IRELAND

WINNER – BURREN SMOKEHOUSE & VISITOR CENTRE, CLARE

This Award recognises food and drink producers, providers, cooking schools, food attractions, farm gate experiences, trails or other food tourism experiences featuring Irish produce as the core component.

FOOD LOVERS CHOICE AWARD –SPONSORED BY MATRIX INTERNET

WILD ATLANTIC WAY WINNER – FITZGERALD'S WOODLANDS HOUSE HOTEL & SPA, LIMERICK

IRELAND’S ANCIENT EAST WINNER – THE GLENROYAL HOTEL, KILDARE

IRELAND’S HIDDEN HEARTLANDS WINNER – KILRONAN CASTLE ESTATE, ROSCOMMON

DUBLIN WINNER – CORRIGAN'S BUTCHERS DRUMCONDRA, DUBLIN

NORTHERN IRELAND WINNER – CULLODEN ESTATE & SPA, DOWN

The Good Food Ireland® Food Lovers Choice award gives the public an opportunity to vote for their favourite business across the island of Ireland.

OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO FOOD PRODUCTION

WINNER – ANTHONY CRESWELL, UMMERA SMOKED PRODUCTS, CORK

Farming is the backbone of Ireland’s Agri-food business, boosting our tourism industry and supporting the economy of our rural environments. This honorary award is in recognition and celebration of the thousands of farmers, for their steadfast contribution to food production on our island and the measures being put in place to farm more sustainably. It highlights the importance of farming not just economically, but its generational legacy and cultural contribution to Irish tourism and the wider community.

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

WINNER – PETER CAVISTON, CAVISTON'S RESTAURANT & FOOD EMPORIUM, DUBLIN

In recognition of a remarkable lifelong achievement across both the tourism hospitality sector and the food production sector.

SUPREME AWARD OF THE YEAR – SPONSORED BY FBD INSURANCE

WINNER – CASTLE LESLIE ESTATE, MONAGHAN 

 

 


On the craft trail - with Lineman, Western Herd and Lough Gill

On the craft trail - with Lineman, Western Herd and Lough Gill 



Lineman Reflector Pils 4.2% ABV, 440 ml can Bradleys


Lineman resurrected their Reflector Pils recently. “And why not?”, they ask: “We absolutely love this stuff, and it seems you do too, because you voted it #1 in style in 2023 on untappd.”


It certainly looks the part in the glass. That golden colour you'd expect from a pils and a soft white head (not that the head stays around for long). And it is indeed brimming with flavour as they've promised. The zesty New Zealand hop, Motueka, and the ever-reliable Bohemian Pilsner malt have played a blinder here, including coming up with a very refreshing finish. Very Highly Recommended.


Lineman has worked hard on this Czech-style pale lager, balanced by a good dose of hops in the kettle for bitterness and flavour. “Finally, a little dry-hop before we lager it for 65 days for incomparable smoothness, that's the icing on the cake.”




Western Herd Loop Head Pilsner, 4.5% ABV, 440 ml can Matsons


Three years back or so, I had one of these Loop Head Pilsners. It was supposed to be crystal clear. It wasn’t. This one is. It was as clear as it could be, with many little bubbles streaming to the short-lived white head. Highly Recommended.


Yeast and malt are on the slightly sour nose, for sure. Clean mouthfeel and malt forward with a slightly fruity and dry finish. The anticipated crisp, clean Pilsner style comes through, and we’ve got a central European lager to enjoy from the west coast of Ireland. That was the plan, as they confirmed: “We brewed it with a single malt and simple hop bill to let the crisp, clean Pilsner style shine through.”


Geek Bits

Style
Pilsner

Colour/Appearance
Straw colour and crystal clear.

Aroma
Yeast and malt on the nose

Flavour
Clean mouthfeel and malt forward with a slightly fruity and dry finish.

Hops
Saaz, Perle

Malts
Pilsner malt

Yeast
Lager


After enjoying this beer or any of the well-made brews from Western Herd, you may like to take up their invitation: “Come and visit us in Flanagan’s Bar and Restaurant in the world-famous town of Lahinch in Co Clare.”



Lough Gill Shaka Session IPA, 3.8% ABV, 440 ml can Matsons


This light gold-coloured IPA comes from the excellent Lough Gill Brewery in Sligo. It is hazy. Look hard, and you’ll note fountains of bubbles rising up to the soft white head. At 3.8% ABV, it fits comfortably under the session bar. Aromas are moderate, tropical, and very pleasant. 


It continues smoothly on the palate with more tropical notes, some citrus, and an almost creamy mouthfeel that “has been amped up with the addition of Oats and Dextrin malts.” 


Shaka is brewed with Amarillo and Vic Secret Hops. These add tropical aromas and fruit flavours; the Australian Vic Secret is noted for its Passion Fruit, resinous and Pineapple characteristics, and the Amarillo for grapefruit and peach and is also resinous.  And they both deliver here. Aside from the aromatics and flavours, Shaka has quite a firm backbone for a 3.8 percenter. Overall, it punches above its weight and is Highly Recommended.

It is often touted as ideal for the BBQ but will also fit in very well at your Christmas party. Enjoy!



Monday, November 11, 2024

Café Velo Settling Well In Carrigaline

Café Velo Settling Well In Carrigaline

Chicken Ciabatta


CafĂ© Velo in Carrigaline offers an impressive variety on its menu. I had the pleasure of enjoying lunch in the newly opened venue last Saturday. Deciding what to order is quite challenging, especially now that they’ve introduced a Weekend Menu. The Breakfast menu also features plenty of options, and there’s a selection available for kids as well.


Welcome in
Velo is now open in the Owenabue Mall, in the heart of the bustling town. Its prime location is advantageous, especially considering the existing competition in the food industry and the arrival of a new contender. Decent Munch has taken over the old Aroi premises and plans to begin operations this month.

One of Velo's standout features is its coffee. You might be surprised to hear that Rob Horgan, the owner of Velo and the original location at George’s Quay, is the mastermind behind Velo Coffee, which has gained considerable success since its launch a few years ago. Therefore, I wasn't at all surprised by the quality of my Americano! 


If you’re not a coffee fan, you can opt for one of their “Healthy Drink” choices, which include juices, smoothies, kombuchas, and a selection from the Vit-Hit range. I recommend the mango and passionfruit flavour, a delicious choice.

Chicken Chilli Wrap


Service is another strong point here. When we arrived around 12:30 pm, the place was busy, and the staff had already worked hard to meet the demand for breakfast. However, everyone we encountered was pleasant and helpful. There were no delays, and the relaxed atmosphere made our visit even more enjoyable.


Sit back, relax!
The new Weekend Menu features a trio of roasts, along with a Seafood Pie, three steak options, burgers, and pasta. However, we found our favourites on the regular lunch menu, which offers an impressive selection of soup, toasties, wraps, burgers, and salads.


While the offerings are not overly complicated, I particularly enjoyed the Italian Chicken Ciabatta. It was made with chargrilled chicken, basil pesto, buffalo mozzarella, and a side salad. The dish was well-cooked and quite enjoyable. Coleslaw and fries could be chosen instead of the salad.


CL enjoyed a thoroughly satisfying Sweet Chilli Wrap, which featured chargrilled chicken, tomato, mozzarella, onion, sweet chilli sauce, and mayo. That dish meal was accompanied by fries (salad also available as alternative). 


For dessert, we each indulged in a treat: I had the Apple Tart, while CL chose the Banoffee Pie. This allowed us to end our meal on a sweet note. Of course, we also enjoyed a cup of that coffee!

Banoffee


Velo Carrigaline has been open for a few months, but finding their menus and hours online was initially quite difficult. However, this has improved significantly in the past week or so. You can now stay updated by following their Instagram page here.

 

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RING IT IN AT THE LIMERICK STRAND HOTEL

 press release 

hotelsxmas24

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 ChristmasTo make a reservation, call 061 421800 or Christmas@strandlimerick.ie

***************************************************

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

Package Overview

·       Festive Splendour is valid from Sunday, December 1st, 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 1st, to Sunday, December 22nd, 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

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