Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Cork Coffee Roasters in Cork

CORK COFFEE ROASTERS

Super Funky...Super Cool.... So says the current Bridgestone Irish Food Guide in talking up Cork Coffee Roasters in Bridge Street.


Not too sure about Funky and Cool, words from the middle of the last century, the fabulous Funk Brothers out of Detroit and maestro Miles Davis with the Birth of the Cool.


But the kids in Bridge Street were friendly and helpful and the coffee was excellent. The view out of the window wasn't bad either, Shandon ahead in brilliant sunshine. But, today baby, it was cool outside!


Check out my review of Cork Coffee Roasters - I am cork - on Qype




Oh, by the important way, you can also buy your coffee from Cork Coffee Roasters. And, if you are in the catering business, they’ll have their experts train your staff so that everyone (including your customers) benefits.
Phone: 087 7766322

Monday, February 15, 2010

Follains of Coolea


FOLLAINS
The tasty products of Follain, the food company from the Gaeltacht area of Coolea, are very widely available and indeed you will find them in all the major supermarkets.
I have come across their relishes and jams in various Christmas hampers and so on but didn't realise they had gone mainstream until I got some of their marmalade in Dunnes Stores recently. Happy to say, the marmalade is excellent, as good as ever.
And the good news doesn't stop there. All their products are gluten free, fat free and 100% suitable for vegetarians. The company, founded in 1983, still live by that "home-made" way that got them off the ground in the first place: 100 per cent natural and zero per cent artificial flavours and colourings.
Check it all out at their new website: http://www.follain.ie

Check out my review of Follains - I am cork - on Qype

The Wholy Grain in Cork

THE WHOLY GRAIN
Downtown this morning and needed a pick-me-up so dropped into the Wholy Grain on Washington Street, close to Singer’s Corner.
First time there and was quite happy with the experience which started with a friendly welcome. Must admit..well not admit..very happy to say that this kind of welcome is the standard in the city and not just in the hospitality section.
Smiles all round therefore as we ordered out Americanos and scones, both on the large side. The well made scone came with butter and jam and proved very enjoyable with the good quality coffee.
The cafe is known for its home made healthy breads. It is right next door to Cafe Gusto so you have two fine cafes within yards of one another. Spoilt for choice.

Check out my review of The Wholy Grain - I am cork - on Qype

ON THE PIG'S BACK

ON THE PIG’S BACK

Finished off the Good Food Week Cork with a DIY pack. It wasn't widely advertised but On the Pig’s Back in the English Market were joining in the food fun with a €15.00 package of goodies, a nicely presented wrapped basket that included cheeses, salami and organic seeded bread.

Picked one up on Friday and am working my way through it, especially the bread and Milleens. Contents: Gubbeen Smokehouse Salami, Ardrahan Farmhouse Cheese, a dote of Milleens Farmhouse Cheese, and, from Dunmanway, a pack of organic wholegrain Emmental Cheese and Pumpkin Seed bread.

Friday, February 12, 2010

Karwig Wines in Cork


KARWIG WINES
Karwig Wines Ltd do business in a peaceful rural setting near the satellite town of Carrigaline. Amazingly, they have some 800 wines on offer. Founder Joe Karwig says he tends to the Old World Wines himself: France, especially Italy, and Germany of course. “But I’m quite happy to drink some of the New World wines, such as the Pinot Noirs from New Zealand.”

We asked Joe if there is any new producer country on the horizon. “Well the Eastern European countries are old producers but suffered under Communist rules. That was bad for them. But new companies from the west are investing there, quite a lot of money is going in and a resurgence is expected.”

Joe himself had been working in the UK with a Germany exporting company in the UK and came over to Ireland in the mid seventies, doing his bit for the same company. At the end of 1978, he started out on his own working out of a Cork bonded warehouse on the City Docks where he was handicapped by restricted opening times, especially at weekends.

So he, and his wife Betty, took the gamble. It might not have been the best of times for a new business but Joe stuck with it and now his stock is spread over three warehouses, one in the city and another in North Cork plus the Carrigaline base, catering for restaurants, hotels, pubs, corporate companies and private customers. He has succeeded beyond his wildest dreams.

Joe is a Riesling fanatic: “It is the best white wine. I like the wines from the Nahe River where my favourite winemaker is Dönnhoff. Carl Ehrhard also makes excellent wines. We have a good selection here and indeed probably have the biggest selection of German wines in Ireland and we also have some from Austria which I also like.”

Karwig carry Rieslings from Germany, France, New Zealand and Australia. By the way, if you want to get to know German wines, here are three from Karwig that will provide you with an important first step: Burgerspital Wurzburg 2008 Silvaner Trocken (Franken region); Carl Ehrhard Rudesheimer, Berg Rottland, Riesling, Spätlese Trocken 2008 (Rheingau); Erbeldinger WeiSer Burgunder Spätlese, Trocken, Bechtheimer Hasensprung 2007 (Rheinhessen).

We asked Joe and marketing manager Maurice O’Mahony if rivals were emerging to Champagne’s position as the queen of sparkling wine. “People are that bit more price conscious at present but there are also fashions. Nowadays, quite a lot of Prosecco is sold – you couldn’t sell it ten years ago. It isn’t just about price. Some people do prefer to drink Prosecco as it has less acidity than champagne and has a richer taste.”
Maurice, who keeps Karwig in focus on his blog,on Twitter and via Facebook, told me that they will deliver anywhere in Ireland. “We do the local deliveries ourselves but use a courier for the rest of the country. We will deliver in the bigger cities in 24 hours but it could take twice that in the more rural places.”

Full details of the impressive Karwig operation are available on their website http://www.karwigwines.ie/ where you may also sign up to the blog and follow Maurice on Twitter and through their Facebook Fan Page.

Best of all, if you are in the area, call in and sample the relaxed friendly approach of this company. Don't be shy if you know nothing about wine. They’ll help you out and won't blind you with the science.

Maurice: “Every day, we open several bottles for customers to try out. We do our best to have a very relaxed and friendly atmosphere in our shop. We cater for the serious wine connoisseur, the casual wine drinker and everyone in between. We love talking about wine and we pride ourselves on our casual sales approach. We want your visit to be relaxed and enjoyable. And you get to go home with some lovely wine too! “

For more, here is the link to the related article that John Wilson of the Irish Times did on Wurzberg
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/magazine/2010/0130/1224263156797.html

Photos (from the top): Champagne corner, Maurice O'Mahony (left) and Joe Karwig, The Tasting Room and (bottom) soem of the 800 (old and new world) wines.

Check out my review of Karwig Wines - I am cork - on Qype

Bramley Lodge in Carrigtwohill

BRAMLEY LODGE
Bramley Lodge, a cafe cum country food store, opened about a year ago and has been attracting costumers galore since.
It is well situated, just off the main Cork-Waterford Road (N25) on the way in to Cobh, on your left just before you cross the first bridge (to Fota).
Location no doubt has something to do with it but it is also has a top class product. Called in there (about 12.30) yesterday for lunch and it was already filling up; indeed, the car park was full but there is more room on the road.
I choose the Fish Cakes, two big ones, enhanced with lime and sweet chilli. They were served with a decent salad and sweet chilli sauce. No shortage of fish in the cakes (salmon and cod). All in all, it was gorgeous and most of the other dishes on the menu also looked good and tempting.

So tempting in fact that, on teh way out,  I bought one of them from the fridge: dinner enough for two plus a bottle of wine for less than €15.00. Prices at the restaurant itself, which opens at 7.00 for breakfast, are also quite reasonable (the fish cakes came to under €12.00). Service is good, friendly and efficient, and there are two bright rooms, one a conservatory which looks out over the bridge and part of the estuary.

All in all, there is an emphasis on good quality local food and that is also seen in the shop where I also bought some goats cheese and Bramley’s own marmalade.

Bramley Lodge is proving extremely popular with visitors to the attractions on Fota (Wildlife Park, Fota House, Hotel and golf) and to Cobh (where you may enjoy the Heritage Centre, more golf, quayside walks, art galleries, Farmers Market on Friday, visiting liners and much more).

Check out my review of Bramley Lodge - I am cork - on Qype

Thursday, February 11, 2010

O'FLYNN'S GOURMET SAUSAGES

O’FLYNN’S GOURMET SAUSAGES


Sometimes we take things for granted, even the good things. You’re down town and there is a festival of some sort going on. You pick up a sausage on a stick and absentmindedly enjoy it as you watch a street act and later you think “Hey, that sausage was nice!”

And if that is what you think, then the chances are that sausage came from O’Flynn’s Gourmet range. Thankfully, you don't have to wait for a festival to enjoy one of their sausages. At their permanent stand in the English market, they have a range of some 30 varieties to choose from, quite a few prize-winners among them.

And they are reasonably priced. I picked up six for a fiver yesterday including Spicy Mediterranean, Garlic and Herb and Leek. Very very tasty and they can be used in so many ways – traditional Irish ways and European style, say in couscous or paella.

You don't even have to be in Cork to enjoy them. You can order online and they'll deliver anywhere in Ireland! Check it out at http://www.oflynnsofcork.ie/

REAL EASTER EGGS!!

PANDORA BELL RINGS THE CHANGES


Limerick’s Bridgestone Irish Food Guide entry Pandora Bell has a new twist for the good old Easter Egg as Nicole Dunphy goes back to basics, taking a real shell and filling it with Praline Chocolate. All you have to do is crack the shell, peel and enjoy!

And enjoy you will if past performance is anything to go by. The company hit speed from its launch in the second half of last year. They first came to my attention with their irresistible range of Honey Nougat and they also do Salted Butter Caramels and Handmade Lollipops.

Nicole puts their success down to the fact they use only the best ingredients and timeless traditional recipes. They certainly have turned the clock back with this one, right back to the real good old days!

See earlier reviews on this site

Pandora Bell products are stocked by independent retailers nationwide and are also available from www.pandorabell.ie

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

THE FARMGATE CAFE

THE FARMGATE CAFE


Back at the English Market today to sample the €15.00 plate and wine from the Farmgate Cafe as part of the Good Food week.

Spotted the Venison as one of the choices. Had tasted that at the official opening on Monday but quite a few had tasted it earlier today (I didn't make it until 2.00pm) and it was no longer available.

But the “disappointment” was short-lived. Ordered the alternative, the Ardsallagh Goats Cheese Salad and a decent glass of Sauvignon. The mild cheese, as many of you already know, is a splendid product (from Carrigtwohill) and came spread generously on three baguette slices.

The three white islands topped a most delicious salad. Baked tomatoes, toasted walnuts, beetroot pieces all mixed in with lively (as distinct from limp) leaves, with an edgy dressing that enhanced the whole plate.

Venison. What venison? (Maybe I’ll try again tomorrow!)

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

The Apple Farm in Cahir


CAHIR'S APPLE FARM
No shortage of wine as the Good Food Week opened in the English Market but it was a humbler liquid that provided me with one of the most memorable tastes of the event. And that was a glass of sparkling apple juice made by the Apple Farm in Cahir, Co. Tipperary. I have tasted some lovely apple products, mainly in Austria and Switzerland, but this is the champagne of the type and well worth seeking out.
The Apple Farm, warmly praised in the 2010 Bridgestone Irish Food Guide, has been in business for over a decade but the sparkler is a recent addition. Welcome it with open mouths!
The Farm is NO 127 on our photo while you’ll find Whelan Butchers (also Good Food Ireland member) at 124.

Get your Apple Farm products at:

  • Good Things Café, Durrus, West Cork

  • Well & Good Healthfood shop, Broderick St., Midleton, East Cork

  • Waterfall Farms, Waterfall, Cork

  • O'Keeffe's Shop, 3 Wellington Road, St. Lukes Cross, Cork City

  • Ballymaloe House, Shanagarry, Co. Cork

  • Nash 19 Restaurant, 19 Princes St., Cork


  • Check out my review of The Apple Farm - I am cork - on Qype

    GOOD FOOD WEEK CORK OPENING

    GOOD FOOD IRELAND CORK WEEK


    The English Market was the appropriate venue as the Good Food Ireland Cork Week was launched by the organisation’s MD and founder Margaret Jeffares last evening.

    Over 250 guests turned up and the venue was packed, no one turning down the invite to sample the delights of the south.

    Wine and other drinks, along with tempting bites, were available downstairs by the fountain but the main action was upstairs along the U shaped floor of the Farm Gate Cafe which had been divided into a number of stands.

    There was so much to taste - no wonder the queue moved slowly. But, with so many good things on offer, the humour was excellent.

    Started off on a high standard with Fishy Fishy from Kinsale and then, a blast from the past, a bite of pig’s cheek from Ballymaloe. Took the opportunity to have a quick word with Denis O’Mullane of Liberty Grill where the Lord Mayor Darragh Murphy and his wife Tanya also lingered.

    Mairead O’Brien, who had earlier introduced me to her boss Claire Nash of Nash 19, was at their stand as was their talented head chef Pamela. At that stage, my plate was getting packed but I still couldn't resist picking up a few other bits before moving downstairs to eat.

    Great to meet so many people involved in putting good things on our plates in their restaurants and via their shops and stalls. O’Keeffe’s of St Luke’s is a brilliant food shop and they were represented by Anne and Donal.

    And then there were producers with whom I hadn’t yet crossed paths. Frank Shinnick of the Fermoy Natural Cheese Company is one such and then there was a smiling twosome from the Apple Farm in Cahir whose sparkling apple juice was one of the highlights of the evening. We’ll be following those two producers in the future along with many more on the comprehensive list proved by Good Food Ireland.

    Well, that was Monday night and now we have the rest of the week to sample the €15.00 plateful and included glass of wine in the participating establishments! More info at http://www.goodfoodireland.ie

    Saturday, February 6, 2010

    GOOD FOOD WEEK IN NASH 19

    Mairead O'Brien of Nash 19 has been in touch with their Good Food Ireland schedule for next week. 


    Their theme is meet the Producer and here's who'll be in the shop 


    Mon: Geraldine from Old Mill Bank SmokeHouse, Buttevant


    Tue : Nora from Inch House, Thurles and Benoit from Lorge Chocolate, Kenmare


    Wed: Pamela our Head Chef in Nash 19


    Thur: TJ from Crowes Farm, Dundrum and Brigitta from The Burren Smoke House, Lisdoonvarna 


    Fri: Steven from Classic Drinks and Mella from Mellas Fudge, Clonakilty

    THE CONTINENTAL

    CONTINENTAL


    The Continental is not a tapas bar but just last night I got a plateful of the best tapas ever in the Maylor Street restaurant – see the photo.

    Along with various sauces and relishes, you have skewered prawns (left), crispy bacon and duck, Serrano, a mushroom tart, a lentil burger, a tortilla (Spanish omelette) and, finally on the right, ham with whole plums.

    This was our starter (€16.95), a shared platter. It, the plate not necessarily the photo, fully illustrates what this fine establishment is capable of as the Tapas are samples of main dishes available here. We just loved it and could have had such a platter each as a main course.

    The main course too was delightful. We both went for the lemon sole (€21.90) served with caramelised carrots, the most gorgeous leeks and a well made mashed potato. The Continental supports local food producers and one could see and taste the freshness here. “Those fish were caught and bought this morning,” said Agnes Stawosz , our ever friendly hostess.

    Our wine came from Argentina, a Michel Torino Sauvignon Blanc. Crisp and dry, pale pale yellow, almost green, hints of grapefruit in the nose and also in the mouth, it comes from one of the highest vineyards in the world and it cost €23.95. Finished off with a couple of good coffees at €2.20 each.

    On previous enjoyable visits to this restaurant, we noticed that there were very few customers here. But there were encouraging signs last evening that the word is getting out as the place was about half full as we left. Hope this trend continues as there is very good food here at excellent prices.

    True we went for broke on the a la carte but you can have a two course dinner for just 19.90 and a three course for 24.95. Value also at lunch, when the place, like the street itself, tends to be busier; you can have soup, open sandwich with rustic potatoes and tea or coffee for just €9.95. Next time I ring to make a booking, I’d be delighted to be told that the place is full. We need restaurants such as this: good food, good cooking and good people.

    Agnes trained in Ballymaloe and her restaurant is currently rated number three out of 142 reviewed for Trip Advisor. So the word is getting out! Phone number: 021 4253900. Open for breakfast and lunch Tuesday to Saturday and for dinner Wed to Sat (from 6.00pm).

    Nash 19 Food Shop in Cork


    NASH 19 FOOD SHOP
    The early opening Nash 19 restaurant is closed by the late afternoon (5.00) but that doesn’t mean you can't enjoy the products of this amazing establishment afterhours. Go to their Food Shop (open 'til 6.00pm) and stock up on a readymade meal or two.

    I will certainly be doing that after my recent experience. Called in to take a browse and got great help from a smiling on the ball assistant who gave me a run down on the huge range of goodies in jars and tubs (a terrific tasting plum jam, up for sampling that morning, and pickled cucumbers among them ), also the homemade cakes and breads and the food for the freezer that I was interested in.

    Must admit though that my purchases, two cartons of Chicken Korma (5.50 each), never made it to the freezer. The temptation was too much and we used them the following night! It was absolutely top class. As I said, I’ll be back and heartily recommend the shop to anyone who wishes to dine at home and treat themselves.

    Each carton contained sufficient for one person. There was ample chicken and the other ingredients in this moderately spiced dish were Onion, Coconut Milk, Sugar, Yoghurt, Butter, Ginger, Tomatoes, Garlic, Green Saffron Korma Spices.
    Just lovely. Now for the Boeuf Bourguignon! And then.....

    Check out my review of Nash 19 Food Shop - I am cork - on Qype

    Friday, February 5, 2010

    BOOK OF LOVE

    BY THE BOOK
    Isabel Allende’s book Aphrodite has been described as “a marvellous concoction, for dipping into or for digesting in great chunks.” Cooking in the nude, The spell of aromas, With the tip of the tongue, are among the chapter headings. Is it a food book? Yes and more: food and love.

    The book, by one of my favourite South American novelists, was first published in 1998 and the edition I have, a Flamingo paperback, in 1999, so you may find it difficult to get your hands on it.

    One of the reviews in my edition, by Rosita Boland, sums it up well: Aphrodite is a magical cauldron of recipes and stories, written to make readers lick lips and each other. The Wall Street Journal said: A light-hearted blend of memories, recipes and research on aphrodisiacs, Aphrodite is a celebration of the senses.”

    Widower’s Figs, Salome Sauce, Madame Bovary, Caribbean Bomb and Venus Mousse are among the recipes which also include, in case you may need it later, a Reconciliation Soup.

    I have added a play, The Beauty Queen of Leenane, to this week’s list. Not much about food here but they do have a way (should that be a wee?) with porridge! Cork run at the Everyman ends on the 13th but then the production is off to Listowel, Athlone, Castlebar, Monaghan, Virginia, Ballybofey, Lisburn, Newtownabbey, Enniskillen, Sligo, Waterford and Dun Laoghaire

    Thursday, February 4, 2010

    MORE BLACK PUDDING

    Many thanks to Nora of Inch House for this recipe and picture

    Inch House Traditional Black Pudding topped with Gortnamona Goats Cheese on a bed of Caramelised Onion with Poppy Seeds & Drizzled with a Mixed Berry Compote.


    Ingredients:

    1 slice of Gortnamona Goats Cheese

    1 slice of Inch House Traditional Black Pudding

    1 Onion

    3 oz Water

    3 oz Sugar

    Poppy Seeds

    Sprig of Parsley

    Selection of Seasonal Berries Sweetened & Softened



    Method:



    *Place onions & sugar in a Pot & slowly sweat them off, turning occasionally until soft. Continue to cook until Golden Brown. Add Poppy Seeds.



    *In a Separate Pot place berries & sugar over a gentle heat. Bring to the boil & cook for 3-5 minutes.



    *Pan Fry 1 Slice of Inch House Traditional Black Pudding on a very hot pan for 2 minutes each side. Place a slice of Gortnamona Goats Cheese on top of the Pudding & gratinate under the grill until Golden Brown.



    *Serve on a Bed of Caramelised onions and drizzle with the Berry Compote. Top it with a Sprig of Fresh Parsley.

    Wednesday, February 3, 2010

    Inch House in Thurles


    INCH HOUSE TRADITIONAL BLACK PUDDING
    Disappointed with the generally salty black pudding available? Why not try something traditional.
    I had that in mind on a recent visit to the Nash 19 food shop and hit the jackpot with a cube of traditional pudding (€4.95) from Tipperary’s Inch House (in association with Crowe’s farm).
    The pudding does contain salt but not that you’d notice along with pinhead oatmeal and pearl rice. It has a really pleasant construction, feels and more importantly tastes good and indeed converted at least one previous black pudding hater of my acquaintance.
    It can of course form part of your traditional fry but my preferred plate, another old dish, is with good eggs (fried) and a well made mashed potato. Next on the agenda is the Trevor Thornton Chicken and Black pudding recipe available on the Bord Gas website http://www.bordgaisenergy.ie/publications/recipes/

    Check out my review of Inch House - I am cork - on Qype

    John Martin' Honey from Dunmanway Co. Cork

    JOHN MARTIN’S HONEY
    The Bee Knees
    I like the occasional jar of honey. Picked one up recently made by John Martin of Dunmanway.
    It has a very enjoyable caramel like taste and a modest pleasing aroma; it is clear and full bodied, with a thick consistency. It tastes great on its own (as a treat or maybe to ease a sore throat, any excuse really) but obviously may be used as a spread or drizzle. Someone has suggested using it on porridge, so we’ll try that.
    It doesn’t come cheap, costing well over a fiver for a 340gm jar and I bought mine at the Nash 19 Food Shop (attached to the well known restaurant in Prince’s Street)

    Check out my review of John Martin's Honey - I am cork - on Qype

    Tuesday, February 2, 2010

    Tribes Cafe in Cork


    As the mid-morning drizzle got thicker, I called into this cosy Tuckey Street cafe for a coffee. As I made myself comfortable and sipped my way through the strong hot cuppa (€2.50), I had a flick through the menu.

    They have what could well be a bargain dinner offer on at present. You can have starter or dessert, plus your main course (good choice), a small 18.75cl bottle of wine plus tea or coffee for just 20 euro.

    Could be worth a try if you are in town some evening and don't worry if it’s late. Tribes is open until 11.00pm Tue-Thu and Sun and until 4.00am Fri & Sat.

    Check out my review of Tribes Coffee Shop - I am cork - on Qype

    ANGELS INVADE CITY PARK

    Read all about it at http://corkandabout.blogspot.com/

    Sunday, January 31, 2010

    RISING TIDE

    RISING TIDE


    Had an enjoyable family lunch at Glounthaune’s Rising Tide at the weekend.

    Food and prices were good at this popular bistro and so too was the welcome and the service, the latter unobtrusively chatty and well tuned to the two kids, one of whom incredibly demolished that dessert Death by Chocolate.

    Most started with the vegetable soup and a decent one it was. Lamb was the roast of the day and the two who choose that were very happy with it as was the punter who enjoyed the fish pie. I picked the lambs liver, with a rich sauce that included caramelised onion; it was very tasty and the vegetables on a side dish were nicely done. All main courses were priced in the €11.00 to €13.00 region.

    Had a nice glass of merlot so was well set up for the day.

    Didn't need much that evening. Have you ever felt that way, saying to yourself around the 7.00pm mark, what will I eat now? My solution: smoked mackerel (one fillet per person), Ruby grapefruit and a mixed small leaf salad, plus a glass of water, wine or Cava. Not bad.

    CURRENT RECOMMENDATIONS (JAN 31st 2010)



    CURRENT RECOMMENDATIONS (31-01-10)

    Les Gourmandises and Fenns Quay for great dinners, for sure.

    Nash 19 for classy snacks and lunches; Cafe Gusto for the smaller bright bites.

    Market Lane and the nearby Continental for excellent meals. 

    Fishy Fishy in Kinsale for ..work it out!

    Kudos (in the Clarion) for Asian at a great price.

    The Brick Oven for Pizza and more.

    Boqueria for tapas..

    Find yourself east of the city? Then try the Rising Tide Bistro in Glounthaune; further east, go to the Woodside on the Midleton-Whitegate Road.#

    To the southwest, you have Kinsale, of course, and further along, there is the original Brick Oven in Bantry.

    Haven’t visited or recently visited places such as Jacques, The Silk Purse, Isaac’s, The Farm-Gate, Star Anise, Green’s, Cafe Paradiso and the Liberty Grill but all are well established, well regarded and the only problem you’ll have is getting a table.

    Saturday, January 30, 2010

    Maritime Hotel in Bantry

    MARITIME HOTEL
    Enjoyed my two day stay at Bantry’s Maritime Hotel: spacious rooms, good service, regular bar entertainment and decent food.
    It is so central and not just to the town and the bay but to the spectacular peninsulas of Sheep’s Head and Beara and also quite close to the Healy Pass which takes you over the hills and into Kerry.
    If you want a change from the hotel food, then the Brick Oven (yes, they really have one for the pizzas) is just a short walk up the road.
    By the way, if you are going into Bantry (from the Cork side) watch out for the hotel’s underground car park which is on the left hand side (opposite the hotel itself).

    Check out my review and map of Maritime Hotel - I am cork - on Qype

    Friday, January 29, 2010

    BRIDGESTONE FOOD GUIDE - GOOD BUT NOT BIBLE



    THE BRIDGESTONE IRISH FOOD GUIDE
    Picked up the Bridgestone Irish Food Guide the other day and am enjoying flicking through the information packed pages. It is an excellent reference and I’ll be using it for market trips, for day trips and weekend trips.
    It is good but would have been better without the strident editorial, especially the bit that deems it “a traitorous action” to buy imported food in a foreign-owned supermarket. Passion is admirable but this “tackle” would earn a card on the football field. It is a bit over the top, especially considering that the book itself was printed in Spain. What do the excellent local printers think about that?
    Sauce for the goose... If I have to watch my back in the supermarket, must I also be wary if I call to the listed and praised On the Pigs Back for some Bayonne Ham or Boudin Noir? Come on lads, get real. The good food movement is both local and international and if Brittany Ferries hadn’t taken so many of us to the continent in the 70s and 80s, the taste for it here would have much slower to develop.
    No doubt huge strides have been made in the quality and variety of food available here in recent years, much of the movement sparked by “imported” innovators from abroad, notably, in the Cork area anyhow, by English, Dutch, French and Spanish artisans. The international element again!
    Add these to those Irish who kept the good food faith when it wasn’t really fashionable and there is now a decent base for the future.
    There are still huge challenges to be met, huge opportunities to exploit. Take fish of example. Cork is poorly served here, just three stalls plus a small Hederman’s smoked counter in the English Market and nothing else in the city centre! You’d get as much choice in a weekly market in a small French town.
    This lack of choice can lead to lack of competition on price. At least O'Driscoll’s Fresh Fish from Schull came to the Mahon Farmers Market, not just with fresh fish but with fresh pricing (a bag of fish for a fiver) as well and that is why they draw the queues, even though Ballycotton are now matching them nearby for choice and price though not yet the queue!
    There is no lack of opportunities for fish and markets. Just look at the North East of Cork City, an area including St Luke’s, Dillon’s Cross, Ballyvolane, Barnavara, Mayfield (pictured), Silverheights, Tivoli, Murmount and Montenotte. The population here is in the tens of thousands, bigger than most Irish cities and towns. Yet it hasn’t as much as one fish stall, not even a fish van calling, and no Farmers Market whatsoever.

    So come on, all you current and potential good food producers out there. Do your bit. Put out the quality where the people can see it and you won't have to wrap it in green white and gold for me to buy it. Quality and availability will do the trick.
    The guide is bigger than ever, over 600 pages, more food places included. But some notable absentees. On the restaurant side, there is no mention of Fenns Quay (who do get a recommendation from Michelin this year) and Market Lane (who are a delicious example of using local produce), both places that I have enjoyed recently.
    Augustine’s, which had just moved to the Clarion, fails to make the listings but Boqueria, which has undergone both renovations and a change of ownership, maintains its status, though with a caveat.
    At some point soon, they’ll probably have to impose a limit on entries. Maybe some of the artisans will upscale to, God forbid, factory size. Maybe that is why big outfits such as Flahavan’s (Oats and Oatmeal) are not included, though Barry’s Tea are. Then again, I didn't see any mention of East Cork’s small outfit, the Magpie Dairy who do excellent goats cheese products.
    The guide is extensive but it is not the whole story. Consult it to be sure but also use your own initiative. I am having fun doing so. Take a chance on a new taste. You never know where it might lead you. 

    Thursday, January 28, 2010

    Supervalu Beers


    SUPERVALU
    Supervalu in the old Roches Stores in Merchant’s Quay is not the place I’d normally think of when looking for beers with a difference. But time was short and I tried and found a decent enough selection there from both sides of the Atlantic.
    Stuck with the Europeans though. Got the Budejovicky Budwar (€2.78) - was this the one transferred across the Atlantic? - from the Czech Republic, plus two from Bavaria , Paulaner Hefe-Weisbier ( €2.32) and the Erdinger Weissbrau (€2.78), all in 500ml bottles.
    Just a note on last week’s trio (from Bradley’s). They were Pilsner Urquell (€2.99), Rick Stein’s Chalky’s Bark Open (€2.99) and, from Oz, Hahn Premium (€1.89). All very enjoyable and I found it impossible to put them in a 1-2-3 order. Pleasantly surprised with the Chalky’s Bark as I was a bit apprehensive about the ginger element.
    I must say that I didn't enjoy my Supervalu trio as much. The Erdinger, a dark beer, flattered to deceive. Rather enjoyed the first mouthful but gradually the sweetness got to me and I didn't finish it.
    The Pualaner, which also produced an abundant head, looked promising but there was something about it, noticeable in the nose and just when you finished the swallow, a kind of clove like whiff. Not for me.
    The Budwar saved the day! Better colour, better body, better all round that the pale watery American version, it was a decent beer, more or less on a par with the three from the previous week

    Check out my review of Supervalu - I am cork - on Qype

    Wednesday, January 27, 2010

    Nash 19 in Cork


    NASH 19
    Dreary dull sky today but got a shot of the Med sunshine at lunchtime in the spacious area known as Nash 19. What courtesy and service, taken by the hand through each inviting item on the menu.
    Even at that, it was very hard to make a choice, all were equally tempting. Settled for a Tomato, Chicken, Chorizo Spaghetti, topped with a rocket salad and parmesan (€13.95). Superb. The other dish was a Fattata (a Spanish style omelette), a tart made with Ardrahan Cheese, peppers and thyme and served with a crispy fresh salad (€11.90).
    Having gone way beyond the snack we came in for, dessert was added without a second thought. I loved my chocolate, pear and plum tart (with custard, cream if you prefer), topped with sliced almonds. Go for it sometime. Also at the table, was a well made very tasty Apple pie. This was made with real apples, nice and chunky pieces, but all the ingredients here are “real” – you can see where they all come from, most from top local producers. Desserts cost €5.50 each.
    The wine suggestion was Alberino. It comes from the Atlantic coast of Spain and is crisp, zesty and fresh and costs €6.50 per glass. Finished off with two Americanos (Bewleys) which were top drawer and cost €2.50 each.
    Nash 19 also have a food shop by the entrance and we had “scoped it” on the way in and intended to buy on the way out but, such was the queue waiting to get in, that we put off the purchases for a day.
    Tempting at the shop and tempting at the table. There is a high standard in this Prince’s Street establishment and one can easily see why Claire Nash and her team won the Bord Bia Restaurant of the Month Award for December. Congratulations and keep up the good work!

    Check out my review of Nash 19 - I am cork - on Qype

    Tuesday, January 26, 2010

    An Cruibin in Cork

    AN CRÚIBÍN
    “An Crúibín is arguably Cork’s coolest pub and you can get some brilliant tapas (some of which are inspired by Spain, others by good Irish produce) here in the evenings,” according to foodie Tom Doorley. The tapas plus its Silk Purse Restaurant are drawing punters to the Union Quay establishment that has replaced the much loved Lobby Bar.
    I’m afraid I was a little too early for the tapas when I called before 12 noon today. But there was a friendly face behind the counter when I ordered my coffee and sat down at one of the big tables in the bar. A good sized cup of decent brew cost me two euro and I relaxed and had a quick skim through the Irish Times.
    Small things often give an indication of the attitude of a pub or restaurant and, based on this brief visit, I will quite happily return to try the bar food or even that restaurant upstairs which is open only on the Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings (from 7.00pm).

    Check out my review of An Cruibin - I am cork - on Qype

    Mahers Pure Coffee in Cork


    MAHER’S PURE COFFEE
    The retail outlet for Maher’s Pure Coffee may be found at 25 Oliver Plunkett Street, Cork. The establishment, now owned by John Mackey, has made a number of moves since it was founded some thirty years ago by Mr Maher in Marlboro Street. Still on sale today, is the Number Six Blend, named after the original street number.
    The service is efficient, friendly and knowledgeable and I enjoyed my call there this morning, on the lookout for some coffee of the stronger type for the cafetiere. Settled on an Italian but also purchased a smaller pack (125 Gms) of a stronger Sumatra just to try it out.
    There was a great smell coming from my briefcase as I opened for one or two other calls around town!

    Check out my review of Mahers Pure Coffee - I am cork - on Qype

    CONGRATS

    Great to see places that we’ve been praising here acknowledged in the current round of Bridgestone Awards. Congratulations to all and in particular to Ann at O'Keeffe's in St Luke’s and to Nicole Dunphy of Pandora Bell in Limerick. Coincidentally, you can get Pandora Bell products in St Luke’s (who also stock wines from Bubble Brothers. O’Keeffe’s is a food treasure house.

    Monday, January 25, 2010

    WINE MYSTERY

    SUNDAY NIGHT WORK-OUT
    On your own, maybe not, next Sunday? Why not liven it up with the second Irish Twitter-based blind tasting? You get your wine from Curious Wines but there will be no information on the bottle: no country, no producer, no grape variety.
     From 8.00pm onwards, you and all the other twitters that join in will have some fun getting in touch and working out exactly what you are drinking. Have some fun and make friends at the same time – this is the second such event. Bubble Brothers were the first supplier.
    The wine costs 19 euro and is available (to anywhere in Ireland) from Curious Blind Tasting where you'll also see full details of the event, including the twitter links to follow.

    Sunday, January 24, 2010

    Boqueria in Cork



    BOQUERIA
    Want a break from the starter, main course, dessert routine? Did you ever find yourself at the table, saying: I would love to try two of their starters and skip the main course? Just want a bite or two with a glass of wine?
    Then try the newly revamped Boqueria, the Tapas bar in Bridge Street named after the market in Barcelona (see pic). I did last evening and enjoyed the chance to “flexi-eat”. Here, you can have Bar Bites (€3.00), Tapas (6), Small Plates (10) and Shared Plates (20).
    There are four choices of shared plates: cold meats, cheese, fish and tapas. We choose the latter and added a bowl of Patatas Boqueria to make sure we had enough!
    Found out later that was a scattering of Patatas (essentially slightly spicy wedges with their own dip) on the impressive shared plate which also had quails’ eggs, bread with pâté, cured hams, various dips and relishes, tasty potato balls, chicory, roasted almond nuts, olives...and more.
    Service was friendly and the dish was delivered promptly. Not an extensive range of wines there now, maybe four or five of both white and red and a couple of cavas. They also serve Murphy’s Heineken and Krombacher on draft. I enjoyed my 500ml carafe of Muscadet (17). It was also available by the glass, the pichet and full bottle.
    Finished off with two good Americanos at two euro each. Total bill came to €47.00. There was quite a flow of punters coming in as the evening wore on. If the place gets close to full, you will find yourself sitting very near to your neighbour but then that’s what happens in Tapas Bars!

    Check out my review of Boqueria - I am cork - on Qype

    Friday, January 22, 2010

    CHANGING TASTES




    THE MASTER’S DOUGHNUTS
    For a while, in the 80s, I used to call every weekend to a shop in Shandon Street, close to the top on the left side as you go up.

    There, for a sweet sweet while, a German master-baker used make the best doughnuts I have ever tasted, so sweet you could eat the brown bag in which they were packed!

    The whole family looked forward to that weekly calorie filled treat.

    You won't get those doughnuts there now – the German has long since ceased that particular business – but the international dimension of food here has expanded hugely.

    For those of you who haven’t been in the area for a while, Shandon Street is both an eye-opener and mouth-opener! There are food outlets galore, from the traditional chippers to shops selling Hungarian, African, Asian food – truly multi-national.


    For more on the street and the area, see http://www.qype.co.uk/place/1215640-Shandon-Walk-Cork or http://corkandabout.blogspot.com/ (loads of photos)

    MENU DESCRIPTION

    Clonakilty Black Pudding is one of the songs on the Jimmy Crowley collection in our music choice (above) this week and here is the chorus.


    Clonakilty Blackpudding! Ses me daza, full of pep!
    To put the lead back in your pencil and the spring back in your step
    Heaven knows what herbs and spices are inside the saucy skin
    But it brings a smile to Erin's Isle Agus fágfaimid mar sin. 


    Haven't seen this description on any menu - yet!

    Thursday, January 21, 2010

    FOOD LOVERS WEEK




    FOOD FOR LOVE
    Maybe not as sexy as Isabel Allende’s cook book "Aphrodite" but the good local food on offer at attractive prices during the Good Food Ireland Week in Cork could well put you in the mood for Valentine’s Day.

    The event runs from Monday 8th to Friday 12th February and you may enjoy a Good Food Ireland Local Food Plate and a Glass of Wine for just €15.00. There is also an accommodation offer: 3 nights for the price of 2.


    For Further Information visit www.goodfoodireland.ie
    or Telephone 053 9158693







    Wednesday, January 20, 2010

    Bradleys Ltd in Cork


    BRADLEY’S
    Called into Bradley’s, North Main Street, to browse among their 700 wines.
    Wouldn't you know it – they didn't have the Four Sisters Shiraz that I was on the lookout for. At least that was my excuse for calling.
    They had some bargains, one Australian Shiraz I had bought elsewhere before Christmas was marked down by three euro. The Penfold's Rawson Retreat range was also down by that amount and I treated herself (my excuse) to a bottle of Semillon Chardonnay.

    They also have huge ranges of spirits and beers but I didn't have time to check them all or the arms to carry them. Settled for a few beers on this occasion and am now looking forward to sampling Pilsner Urquell (€2.99), Rick Stein’s Chalky’s Bark Open (€2.99) and, from Oz, Hahn Premium (€1.89).
    My father always maintained that Bradley’s had the best bottled Irish beer in town but they have now spread their wings and are well worth a visit. Service, by the way, was relaxed and friendly.

    Check out my review of Bradleys Ltd - I am cork - on Qype

    Cafe Gusto in Cork



    CAFE GUSTO
    Cafe Gusto – so good they built it twice, first in Washington Street (Singers Corner) and also at the Lapps Quay Boardwalk (see pic).

    Called to Washington Street lunchtime today and enjoyed my snack which consisted of a hot gorgeously crispy Bocadillo, filled with a Caprese (Mozarella du Bufala, basil and plum tomato). Partner helped herself to a Focaccia Farita filled with a juicy Tuna Salad (with plum tomato, red onion, cucumber & a little mayo).

    I had a large Americano while she had a medium one; both were superb. The “sandwiches” cost a fiver each and the total came to less than €15.00.
    Staff were informative and friendly but the service was a little less than perfect in the sense that the coffee was served well before the eats and there was even a noticeable gap between the Focaccia and the Bocadillo.

    But I would nonetheless recommend the place strongly. The food is excellent and so is the coffee. Next time though, I might have a glass of water with the meal and then get the coffee and linger! By the way, all the seating here is of the high stool variety.

    Check out my review and map of Cafe Gusto - I am cork - on Qype

    Monday, January 18, 2010

    SAY I LOVE YOU WITH A LOLLIPOP


    All you need is love…… and Pandora Bell Lollipops!

    Sassy, retro and indulgent, a Pandora Bell Handmade Lollipop is a quirky way to say ‘I love you’ on Valentines Day.

    Something sweet and beautiful is the classic way to show love (or that little crush).  Pandora Bell’s Handmade Lollipops go back to a time when colours and flavourings were natural and sweets looked as beautiful as they tasted.

    Pandora Bell’s Nicole Dunphy says their lollipops are made in the traditional way, by stretching and rolling sugar syrup.  "The only extras, are naturally based colours and flavours; to make the lollipops look pretty and taste gorgeous."

    For centuries Valentines Day has been a day to celebrate love whether, eternal love, the buzz of passion, a long term friendship or a first teenage crush.

    Chocolate is a classic way of expressing love.  The Pandora Bell range has two gift sized nougat bars coated in rich dark chocolate.  Honey and Hazelnut Nougat in a Chocoate Coating and Coffee Nougat with Hazelnuts in a Chocolate Coating.  Both are perfect with a desert wine or coffee after that stay at home romantic meal (a desert guaranteed not to be ruined in the oven).   For non chocoholics there is the Italian favourite, Honey Nougat with Almonds and Pistachios and the sweeter, Honey Nougat with Orange and Almonds.

    Pandora Bell’s Handmade Lollipops and Honey Nougat bars are available from independent retailers nationwide.  For a list of stockists log onto www.pandorabell.ie.  Valentines web specials include  a Valentines Lollipop and luxury box of chocolates (200g) for E9.99 and a lollipop and chocolates (400g) for E19.99.

    Pandora Bell is a confectionery label based in Co Limerick. The Pandora philosophy is based on old fashioned culinary values, high quality ingredients and exceptional tastes. The Bridgestone Irish Food Guide has named Pandora Bell it’s Newcomer of the Year.
    Not everyone is ‘romancing’ for valentines, if you don’t have a cosy dinner for two planned, take the opportunity to treat yourself anyway… take the 

    Friday, January 15, 2010

    The Brick Oven in Cork

    THE BRICK OVEN
    Bantry’s best, the Brick Oven, has opened up in the city and may be found in the shadow of St Fin Barre’s on French’s Quay, close to South Gate Bridge.
    (Local knowledge lesson: the quay is named after a late 17th early 18th century wine merchant James French).
    The oven is on your left, as you enter. It is called the Big Fella and certainly produces the goods, perhaps the best pizza in the city.
    Certainly enjoyed my Heartstopper there last night, eight inches of class with all the fillings. You can almost taste and smell the flames from the base which stays crisply edible and "cut-able" all the way to the end.
    Heartstopper (€10.50) had most of the fillings available. The other pizza at the table was the Hawaiian (€9.50), looked down on by guides in Italy but still readily available at Latin pizzerias, which is more than can be said for brick ovens. In any case, ham and pineapple do go well together and last night’s piece was no exception.
    Brick Oven supply their pizzas (they also do take-out) in two sizes, 8” and 10”. If you’re not up to the bigger size why not do what I spotted a couple doing last night. Order one between you and take a cone-full (yes, that’s how they serve fries here) to share as well.
    While the Pizza is first class, the Brick Oven (which opened just before Christmas) has a huge general menu both for lunch and later and had some tempting specials as well available last night. Well worth checking out, which means I’ll be back.
    Started off with a delicious mussels and tomato and herb sauce combination, available in three sizes (starter €8.95, lunch and dinner). Quite a lovely starter and substantial too as you have your mussels and the very tasty sauce doubles as a soup and you get a fine sized spoon to take it up. You also get a few toasted bits of baguette, though I’d prefer plain breads and also something to wipe the fingers!
    Dessert was a Meringue and Berry with ice cream. Meringue soft and sweet, the whole thing delicious, cost €6.00. Wine is available from €5.00 per glass upwards. Our bottle, Pepperton Estate Chardonnay Semillon, cost €21.00, a reasonable price for a reasonable Australian.
    The restaurant, previously Proby’s Bistro, is spacious and comfortable. Ceiling decor is unusual, with some three dozen or so closely packed old type fringed lampshades enclosing the adequate lighting but the thing to see is that Big Fella, the real brick oven!
    Service was excellent and the staff were very friendly and helpful.
    Didn't notice any music last night but you might get lucky some night, maybe something from the Rubyhorse back catalogue!

    A SECOND VISIT

    BACK TO THE OVEN
    Always a little nervous going back to a place which I’ve praised. The Brick Oven was the venue and this time I accompanied, to a midweek lunch, two colleagues to whom I had recommended it.
    Needn’t have worried. We were first in, got the table by the fire, and were the last to leave. Enjoyed our re-union and the meal. Two of us sampled the Risotto Special (at less than a tenner) while the third tucked into a steak burger with fries and salad.
    Not a huge selection of desserts so I suggested the Berries, meringue and ice-cream and it went down well.
    The house red and white wines were decent as were the coffees. All that, plus the friendly and efficient service, led to a relaxing feeling and a lazy long lunch by the fire in a reasonably busy spot.

    Check out my review of The Brick Oven - I am cork - on Qype

    Thursday, January 14, 2010

    O'KEEFFE'S ST LUKES


    Must admit I was a happy camper after a recent visit to O’Keeffe’s (St Luke’s), a treasure trove of top class artisan foods. The produce is mainly local but one of my purchases was a pack of Hazer Baba Turkish Delight, all the way from Istanbul. Pistachio was embedded in the sweet sweet cubes and that made for a slightly more chewy version, more satisfying than the normal coated “jelly”.
    Met some very satisfied diners this weekend. One couple had been at Market Lane, another in Kudos and a larger group at Tracy’s in Ballincollig.
    Not so satisfied was a customer of BB’s in Ballincollig who thought €2.80 was very expensive for a cup of Coffee-to-go; in addition “they were very slow”. By way of comparison, Quiznos in Merchant's Quay, sells coffee for €1. Reference: grapes_of_sloth on Twitter.

    Wednesday, January 13, 2010

    Old Irish Creamery in Limerick


    OLD IRISH CREAMERY
    Picked up a Cheddar Cheese with Red Wine recently, just to try it out. It is a beauty and made under the Old Irish Creamery label in Effin Co Limerick.
    Checked it out further and found that the JOD Food Company is building up its share of the market and has won awards at shows in Dublin and Nantwich (Cheshire). Cheeses produced include Natural Irish Oak Smoked, Garlic & Herbs, Walnut, Chilli, Porter, Whiskey, the Wine, Chives, Blueberries, and Effin Spicy Cheese coated with black peppercorns.
    I’ll be on the lookout for the others. If they are all as good as the Cheddar with Red Wine then I’m on a winner.

    Check out my review of Old Irish Creamery - I am cork - on Qype

    Tuesday, January 12, 2010

    Whitechurch Foods in Cork


    HEGARTY’S WHITECHURCH CHEESE
    Hegarty’s of Whitechurch are practically neighbours yet it was at a cheese stall down in the Mahon Pointy Farmers market that I bought some of their aged Cheddar.
    Great stuff, compared to your normal cheddar, capable of more than holding its own with more famous products. Definitely worth a try.

    Check out my review of Whitechurch Foods - I am cork - on Qype

    Thursday, January 7, 2010

    Jacobs On The Mall in Cork


    JACOBS ON THE MALL
    Good crowd at Jacobs on the Mall last evening, though not your typical Women’s Christmas groups, as couples were very much in evidence.
    They have a special offer on, €24.00 approx for 2 courses, 28 for three. Though the menu is cheaper, the standard of food and service is still very high.
    My ladies went for the crisp crunchy breads supplied at the start, especially the fig enhanced brown version.
    The long chicken and veg spring roll was a popular starter, served with a salad and dip. Very nice.
    Most went for the Venison, served with champ and red cabbage, as the main course. Portions were generous but beware: unless you ask otherwise, the meat will be served rare.
    Not too many had the appetite for the big range of deserts but those that did were delighted, with the Triple Chocolate Wedge in particular.
    Lovely evening, Lovely food. Now they tell me.

    Check out my review of Jacobs On The Mall - I am cork - on Qype

    Wednesday, January 6, 2010

    Rebel Chilli in Cork



    REBEL CHILLI
    Picked up some jars of Rebel Chilli on a recent visit to the Mahon Point Farmers’ Market.

    Quite a tasty and versatile product, with different degrees of spiciness. Main uses are to liven up cheeses and hot and cold meats.

    The two jars I bought were on the lower end of the “hot” scale and the Jalapeno and Raspberry went particularly well with hard cheese.

    Check out my review of Rebel Chilli - I am cork - on Qype

    Monday, January 4, 2010

    Bandon Vale in Cork

    BANDON VALE FINE CHEESES
    Bandon Vale is dedicated to providing quality products and offers a selection of shredded, block, sliced and pre-packed products, ranging from cheddars to bespoke blends and mixes.
    But this fairly large producer, a member of the West Cork Regional Branding Initiative, under the Fuchsia logo, also sells some speciality packs, mainly cheddar.
    The one I bought recently was their Glandór Red Leicester. I was very happy with it. It had a mellow yet distinct flavour and is quite a nice change from the usual cheddar.

    Check out my review (and contact details) of Bandon Vale - I am cork - on Qype

    Friday, January 1, 2010

    BALLYCURRAGINNY FARM in Cork


    BALLYCURRAGINNY FARM
    Hard to beat fresh vegetables, just out of the ground. And what a display the Burns family (from Mt Uniacke, Killeagh) had at the Mahon farmers market on a recent frosty morning.
    No artificial lights. But there was more than enough illumination in the low sun. The display and the obvious health of the veg was irresistible and soon the bag was full with Brussels sprouts, celery, carrots and gleaming cauliflowers.
    Reminded me of the days when I grew my own, pulled them, cleaned them and put them into the pot!

    Check out my review of BALLYCURRAGINNY FARM - I am cork - on Qype

    O'Hanlon's Off Licence in Cork



    O’HANLON’S OFF LICENCE
    The relatively new establishment in the Mayfield Shopping Centre is well established after 18 months and my recent call showed why.
    They are a friendly lot in this off licence. Loads of free advice on the best beer buys locally and also some down to earth advice on their extensive stock of wines.

    They informally steer you through the maze of types and prices and don't just hand out the expensive bottle. They want customers, sure, but they want happy repeat customers. I went off with my purchases, including a Wyndham Bin 555 Shiraz, and will be back.

    Check out my review (including map)  of O'Hanlon's Off Licence - I am cork - on Qype

    Pandora Bell in Limerick


    PANDORA BELL - The Sweetest things...

    My sweetest thing this Christmas? Pandora Bell's honey nougat. Sense-ational. Picked up a couple of packets at O’Keeffe’s (St Luke’s). Gorgeous. No wonder the Bridgestone Irish Food Guide has named this new Limerick confectionery label as its Newcomer of the Year.
    Bridgestone’s John McKenna says of Pandora Bell, “You want to see and taste perfection? Here it is, again. Nicole Dunphy's salted caramels and nougats and lollipops are of a standard no one in Ireland has ever achieved, and she has just started her Pandora Bell business, so what awaits us in the future? We can't wait.”

    Neither can I.

    Check out my review of Pandora Bell - I am cork - on Qype