The Lodge Myrtleville - not just a pretty picture!

The Lodge Myrtleville - not just a pretty picture!

The Lodge in Myrtleville has a lofty location overlooking the bay and the mouth of Cork Harbour where cruise liners, ferries and working ships, glide by. You can see across to Roche’s Point at the other side of the harbour.

It is not the only pretty picture you’ll see here in the elevated restaurant. What comes on your plate is also very attractive!

You may of course dine outside and get the better view. Inside there are plenty tables, including a few tables with window views, some with high stools, some with low (specify your choice when booking).

Curry and rice

Happy Trio

As it happened we were inside last week when we called in for an early meal. About an hour later, we left, a trio of happy customers.

The menu is quite a mixed one with sections headed Bar Snacks, Small Plates, Specials, Burgers and Pizzas. By the way, the Small Plates are not necessarily small and some could easily slot in under the Specials. Have a think before you decide. If you’re really hungry, you could go for a Small Plate and a Special, if not that hungry try a Bar Snack and Special.

Burger

Best of goods in small parcels!

My Bar Snack the other night was not of the usual variety. No olives or almonds but a Spanakopita (Greece) with the traditional Spinach and feta in filo parcels with Greek aioli. Best of goods in small parcels!

Two Small Plates were ordered. The Onion Bhajis (Deep Fried Crispy Onion Bhajis with coriander and Mint Chutney) were shared. Quite crispy, mildly spicy and very nice indeed as the three of us tucked into quite a generous bowl-full.

Spanakopita. Crispy. Tasty. Mildly Spicy.

Special Taco

CL kept the other Small Plate ordered for herself! Another wonder. The Beer-Battered Fish Taco (Soft shell taco, lime vinaigrette slaw and chipotle sour cream) was a highlight, an order to be repeated.

My pick of the night was the Goan Prawn Xacuti (Aromatic goan curry made with roasted coconut, fragrant spices, garlic & a hint of chili). Quite a spicy one though not overly so and I added a side of rice.

Another side on the table was Skinny House Fries and others available were Paratha (Indian Flaky Bread) and the House Salad (Rocket, Cherry Tomatoes, Sweetcorn, Red Peppers, Olives, Confit Garlic & Balsamic Vinaigrette).

Fish Taco

Young Offender

The Young Offender Burger caught the eye of the Third Party. Quite a mix of excellent Beef patty, Jack Daniel’s onion jam, smoked provolone, crispy streaky bacon, jalapenos, mustard mayo, and skinny fries. The bun was omitted, on request. The burger did get the thumbs up with a special mention for the Jack Daniel’s onion jam, not too sure whether it was for the Jack Daniel’s or the jam!

* Total bill, before tip: 82 euro

*For menus and reservations please click here https://www.thelodgebar.ie/ 

Bhajis

Killarney's Pig’s Lane named Bar Of The Year 2026. Cork Heritage Pubs named Pub Group of the Year

Top Bars Revealed in 2026 Awards

2026 The Square Bar of the Year Awards in Ireland

#barawards2026

PUB GROUP OF THE YEAR GOLD FOR CORK HERITAGE PUBS

- Pig’s Lane in Co. Kerry was named Bar Of The Year, also winning Gold for Best Designed Bar / Inside Space and Cocktail Bar of the Year.

- Dublin led the way with multiple Gold wins across various categories, including The Merrion Hotel, Café en Seine, and The Stags Head.

- Cork and Kerry excelled in the south, with venues like Paladar and Woolshed Baa & Grill taking home Gold awards.

- Silken Thomas in Co. Kildare was the People's Choice Overall winner, along with winning People's Choice Leinster.

The Report:

IRELAND’S FINEST HOSPITALITY CELEBRATED AS WINNERS OF THE 2026 THE SQUARE BAR OF THE YEAR AWARDS ARE REVEALED. 

The premier stars of Ireland’s licensed trade were crowned on Monday 24th of August at the gala ceremony of The Square Bar of the Year Awards 2026, hosted by Anton Savage, held at the Clayton Hotel on Burlington Road, Dublin. Following a record-breaking year featuring over 1,000 national entries, the industry gathered to honour the extraordinary innovation, resilience, and craftsmanship defining Irish bars, hotels, craft breweries, and hospitality venues.

Led by overall headline sponsor Square, the national competition recognised gold, silver, and bronze winners across more than 30 dynamic categories. 

"The sheer calibre of entries we received this year was nothing short of inspiring," said Trish Murphy, Sales and Sponsorship Director at Licensing World. "Across every region, venues are setting new benchmarks and re imagining what top-tier hospitality looks like. The standard of entries highlights an industry rich in innovation, passion, and an unyielding commitment to delivering remarkable experiences." 

Pig’s Lane Sweeps Top Honours as Bar Of The Year: Pig’s Lane, Co. Kerry emerged as the undisputed star of the night, taking home the overall title of Bar Of The Year. The Killarney venue proved its unmatched excellence across the board by also sweeping Gold for both Best Designed Bar / Inside Space and Cocktail Bar of the Year.

Connacht & Ulster Victories: The West and North-West made a major impact, taking home several prestigious Gold titles. Galway shone with Tom Sheridan's Bar & Restaurant (Joe O'Callaghan, Bar Manager of the Year Gold), The Kings Head (Gold - Best Live Entertainment Bar), and Sonny Molloy's Irish Whiskey Bar (Gold -Whiskey Bar of the Year). Maddens Bridge Bar & Restaurant in Donegal won Gold for Best Wine Bar of the Year, while Mayo scored Gold in Outside Space of the Year (Henehans Venue) and Staff Personality of the Year (The Porter House Westport).

Dublin's Gold Rush: The capital led the charge across multiple major categories. Highlights include The Merrion Hotel (Gold - 5 Star Hotel Bar ), The Sackville Lounge (Gold - Best Newcomer), Café en Seine (Gold - City Bar of the Year), Rascals Brewing Company (Gold - Craft Bar of the year ), The Old Spot (Gold -Gastro Bar of the year), The Collins Club at The Leinster (Gold - Hotel Cocktail Bar of the year ), The George (Gold - Late Bar/Nightclub of the year), The Laurels Clondalkin (Gold - Local Bar of the year ), 37 Dawson Street (Gold - Outstanding Customer Service of the Year), SOLE Seafood & Grill (Gold - Restaurant Bar of the Year ), The Stags Head (Gold - Traditional Bar of the Year), and Celtic Nights at The Arlington Hotel (Gold - Visitor Attraction of the Year).  

Leinster Champions: The Dew Drop Inn & Brewhouse in Kildare claimed Gold for Innovative Bar of the Year and Silken Thomas, Co. Kildare sweeping both People's Choice Leinster and People's Choice Overall. High-concept venues across the region rounded out a powerful showing, with Silver awards for mo chara, Co. Louth (Craft Bar of the Year), McSorley's Kilkenny (Best Newcomer).  Left Bank, Kilkenny (City Bar of the Year), alongside Peadars Bar Moate (Traditional Bar of the Year), The Make & Mark, Laois (Outstanding Customer Service Award), and The Terrace, Carlow (Outside Space) won Bronze.

Munster Excellence: Cork and Kerry led a massive wave of wins in the south. Beyond Pig's Lane in Kerry, Cork venues took Gold in Bar Food of the Year (Paladar), Best Bar to Watch the Match (Woolshed Baa & Grill), Cocktail Bartender of the Year (Akram Bendjeddou, Paladar), Hotel Bar of the Year (Cask), and Tourist Bar of the Year (Sin É). Cork Heritage Pubs was named Pub Group of the Year.

People's Choice Winners: Voted directly by the public across the four provinces, Silken Thomas, Co. Kildare achieved national glory by taking home both People's Choice Leinster and People's Choice Overall. Regional public favourites also included The George, Co. Dublin (People's Choice Dublin), Geary's Bar Charleville, Co. Cork (People's Choice Munster), and Mc Hughs Bar, Co. Leitrim (People's Choice Connacht/Ulster).

The Residence at The Kingsley now welcoming short-stay guests

press release

The Residence at The Kingsley now welcoming short-stay guests

The Kingsley is a luxury four-star urban retreat in Cork, with lovely riverside views and a peaceful setting along the banks of the River Lee. Right next door to the hotel, The Residence at The Kingsley is a series of comfortable and stylish self-catering and serviced apartments, ideal for long-term stays and extended business visits, and now available for shorter stays too. 

The Residence at The Kingsley has 18 two-bedroom apartments and one three-bedroom penthouse, all with commanding views of the Lee Fields and the River Lee. 

With private parking, fully equipped kitchens, large dining and living areas, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a 24/7 reception service, you also have access to all the hotel’s facilities. During your stay you can unwind in the outdoor hydrotherapy pool overlooking the river, use the indoor swimming pool, or visit the bright and modern gym at The Kingsley, and benefit from a 10% discount on lunch or dinner at the hotel’s award-winning Springboard Restaurant. 

These spacious, fully-serviced riverside apartments are just minutes from the city centre, and the perfect blend of home comforts and hotel luxury. Whether you’re visiting Cork for a short city break, a longer stay, or a business trip, The Residence at The Kingsley makes the perfect base from which to experience the city in comfort and style, with every stay just as relaxing or productive as you need it to be.

Cork is vibrant and buzzing, from its renowned culinary scene, including the famous English Market, and excellent restaurants and bars, to its rich history and culture. The Residence at The Kingsley gives you the space and convenience of a private apartment as well as the ease and luxury of a hotel, making it the perfect choice for every type of stay.

To book your stay or learn more, visit www.thekingsley.ie 

The Kingsley on the banks of the Lee, and its high-rise neighbour County Hall

Collaboration Dinner: Gloria Osteria X Restaurant Chestnut - 20th September

Collaboration Dinner: Gloria Osteria X Restaurant Chestnut - 20th September

Gloria Osteria and Chef Davide are delighted to welcome West Cork culinary royalty, Rob Krawczyk and the Restaurant Chestnut team for one night only on September 20th.

Making the journey from Ballydehob to Dublin, the Michelin-starred team will be stepping out of their cosy white casa and into the capital, bringing their finest produce with them.

Tickets are priced at €85 for the four-course menu, or €125 with a wine pairing. Bookings will go live at 9am on the 31st of August and and can be purchased via Seven Rooms: www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/gloriadublin.

Secure your seat for an exclusive four-course menu weaving together Chestnut's signature home-aged charcuterie with Gloria's specials. The feast kicks off with warm Gnocco Fritto and brioche, Chestnut's famed fish charcuterie and homemade coppa, served with crisp pickles and rich sage butter.

press release

Youghal lacks nothing when it comes to good food and drink!

Youghal lacks nothing when it comes to good food and drink 

Aherne’s new owners hit the ground running!

A cross-section of this delicious Baked Alaska reveals
the amazing raspberry sorbet at the heart of it!

It’s been the smoothest of transitions as the Fitzgibbon’s bowed out of their decades long association with Aherne’s restaurant and townhouse in Youghal. At first glance you’d hardly know, though the building on the town’s North Main Street has a new pink robe. Experienced restaurant operators, the Finns, successful with Dillon’s in Timoleague and, more recently, with Finns’ Farm Cuts in Kinsale, have hit the new ground running. 

The bar was packed when we called recently. The Finns, John and Julie, are renovating the restaurant and are making full use of the bar space in the meantime. They told me they’re taking time to settle into this new chapter and are looking forward to sharing more with customers “as our menus continue to evolve.” The customers are looking forward to it as well.

Cod dish at Aherne's

  Early days yet, but they have quite a menu on offer.  As it stands, you can choose from a wide range, from Seafood Chowder to a 10oz Sirloin steak, tobacco onions, mushroom puree, from Crispy fried Haddock, homemade tartare sauce, salad & crisp potatoes to a Baked Alaska.

We tried and tested and can highly recommend that dessert. The tasty Steamed Mussels, with coconut, coriander, lemon grass and ginger is also highly recommended, that sauce is a real winner. It is listed as a starter but also available as a mains. 

Then there’s that faultlessly cooked Grilled Cod fillet, (tender spinach puree, tomato salsa, and that comes with a little pot of sautéed potatoes). Vegetarians aren’t left out and we enjoyed the Grilled aubergine, hazelnut, roasted pepper romesco, goats cheese, served with the same potatoes and a classy salad. Both these dishes are also very highly recommended.

Brush & Barrel

I was briefly puzzled by the name of a new wine bar in Youghal,   also located at North Main Street. I was wondering what has brush got to do with wine. Found out as I wandered past it recently. Brush & Barrel, a creative art studio and wine bar, officially opened its doors in early July 2026. It is described as art studio meets wine bar. Here you may enjoy Sip & Paint nights, cheese, charcuterie, and dog-friendly space, and wine of course!

By the way, if you are on the lookout for wine in Youghal then I can recommend the well-stocked Matson’s over in Carlton Wharf Youghal P36E125 . Matson’s other Cork stores are in Bandon and Grange. Not just wine. No shortage of spirits of course and quite a selection of craft beer as well. Well worth a call whether you’re a resident or just passing through. 

Matson's Wine Store in Youghal (on the left)

Clancy’s €945,000

Also in Youghal, the popular Clancy’s Bar & Restaurant, well placed on the front strand, is a landmark in the seaside town. Still going strong, lots of people, both inside and out, dining and drinking there when we passed (8/8/26). We called in a few months back, on a very windy day, and enjoyed a checking meal. It is being advertised for sale and the asking price is €945,000. For more on Clancy’s, please click here. 

This, as you can surmise, is just a skin-deep summary of food and drink outlets in town. There is much more including a selection of pubs and hotels. I'll have to leave that by-pass again soon and call in!

The Red Store, a long-standing feature of Youghal's food scene

BARBERSTOWN CASTLE PLANTS A FIELD OF SUNSHINE FOR SENSATIONAL KIDS AND WOMEN’S AID

BARBERSTOWN CASTLE PLANTS A FIELD OF SUNSHINE FOR SENSATIONAL KIDS AND WOMEN’S AID

Thousands of sunflowers bloom across three acres of the historic Kildare estate to raise funds for two Irish charities

Amanda Torrens, CEO and owner of Barberstown Castle

 

There is a spectacular new reason to visit Barberstown Castle this summer as thousands of sunflowers burst into bloom across three acres of the historic Kildare estate – all in aid of Sensational Kids and Women’s Aid.

The privately owned Castle in Straffan has dedicated three acres of its grounds to growing thousands of sunflowers, creating a spectacular sea of yellow which visitors are invited to come and enjoy while raising much-needed funds for the two charities.

The sunflower field opened to the public recently and, weather permitting, is expected to remain in bloom for approximately two to three weeks. Visitors can wander among the flowers, take photographs and enjoy one of the most colourful sights of the summer. Rather than charging a traditional admission fee, Barberstown Castle is asking visitors to make a nominal donation, or simply give whatever they can afford, with all proceeds divided between Sensational Kids and Women’s Aid.

Sensational Kids is an award-winning Kildare-based charity and social enterprise providing subsidised therapy and assessment services for children and adolescents, including Occupational Therapy and Speech and Language Therapy. Since it was established in 2007, Sensational Kids has supported more than 10,000 children and their families.

 

Women’s Aid is a leading national organisation working to prevent and address the impact of domestic violence and abuse, providing support, information and services to women and children throughout Ireland.

The sunflower field is the latest initiative at Barberstown Castle which combines the estate’s commitment to sustainability and biodiversity with its strong tradition of supporting charities and the wider community. Dating back to 1288 and set amid the rich countryside of Straffan, Barberstown Castle has been part of the Kildare landscape for almost 800 years and in recent times has placed an increasing emphasis on protecting and enhancing the natural environment surrounding the historic property.

Earlier this summer, the Castle hosted the start of The Bumblebee 1000: The Eddie Jordan Supercar Roadtrip, which saw around 45 spectacular supercars gather at Barberstown before setting off on a three-day journey in aid of Little Blue Heroes, the Garda-led charity supporting families of children undergoing long-term medical treatment for serious illness.

 

Barberstown Castle has also supported Movember through the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, which brought classic and vintage motorcycle enthusiasts together at the Castle to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health, alongside its ongoing support for Women’s Aid and other charitable and community initiatives.

 

The sunflower project also fits perfectly with the Castle’s growing focus on sustainability and biodiversity. Earlier this year, Barberstown Castle planted 2,500 native Irish trees throughout the estate, creating new areas of indigenous woodland which will grow and mature for generations to come. The Castle is also home to its own honeybee hives, helping to support pollination and biodiversity throughout the gardens and grounds.

Amanda Torrens, owner of Barberstown Castle, said the sunflower field had brought a wonderful new dimension to the estate while creating an opportunity to support two important charities.

“We are absolutely delighted to support Sensational Kids and Women’s Aid, two incredible charities doing hugely important work. Supporting charities and our local community is something that is genuinely important to everyone here at Barberstown Castle, so we wanted this beautiful new addition to the estate to have a purpose too.

 

“The sunflowers have brought such wonderful colour and joy to the grounds this summer. When you see thousands of them together, they really are spectacular, and we would love people to come and enjoy them, take some beautiful photographs, and simply donate whatever they can. We hope that something which is bringing so much joy and colour to Barberstown can also make a real difference to these two wonderful charities.”

 

The sunflower field is located within the grounds of Barberstown Castle, Straffan, Co. Kildare, W23 CX40 and is open from 9.00am to 6.00pm daily and from 11.00am on Sundays. Having opened on Saturday, 8th August, the field is expected to remain open for approximately two to three weeks, depending on weather conditions and how long the flowers remain in bloom. Visitors are asked to make a nominal donation, or whatever they wish to contribute, with proceeds going to Sensational Kids and Women’s Aid. Parking is available at the Castle.

www.barberstowncastle.ie

press release

 

Moët & Chandon Champagnes Paired with Indian Flavours in Rare, Kinsale.

press release

Moët & Chandon Champagnes Paired with Indian Flavours in Kinsale.

Innovative Pairings. Not just Oyster and Lobster.

A Five-Course Tasting Menu, Paired with Moët & Chandon Champagnes, at Rare at The Blue Haven, Kinsale

Rare at Blue Haven invites guests to a specially created five-course tasting menu from Executive Head Chef Meeran Manzoor, thoughtfully paired with a variety of Moët & Chandon Champagne by acclaimed sommelier Julie Dupouy, on Friday 18th September.

Each course has been designed around the character of a different Champagne from Moët & Chandon's range — Brut Impérial, Rosé Impérial, Grand Vintage and Ice Impérial — with Meeran building the menu from the pairing outward, rather than selecting wines to match finished dishes.

Meeran takes a considered approach to pairing his food with Champagne, ensuring the spice and intensity of each dish never overpower the delicate flavours of the wine. Rather than having the Champagne sit alongside the food, he incorporates its character directly into the pairing, balancing spice, acidity, richness and texture so that food and Champagne complement one another.

He says, "When I'm building the pairing menu, I look closely at the balance of acid, spice and fat, and how those elements will work with the Champagne. Whether it's butter-rich sauces, fresh citrus, a light coconut and shellfish bisque, or crispy garnishes that add texture and lift, every element has a role to play. I want the food to feel unmistakably Rare, with our core values and style coming through, while allowing enough freshness, richness and balance for the Moët to shine. Ultimately, it's about creating harmony between the food and the Champagne, so neither feels like an afterthought, and both elevate the overall experience."

Guiding guests through the evening will be Julie Dupouy, one of Ireland's leading sommeliers, four-time winner of Ireland's Best Sommelier and a bronze medallist at the ASI World Sommelier Championship.

Speaking about the pairings, Julie says, "We chose these Champagnes because they each bring something different to Meeran's cooking. The Brut gives us freshness and acidity, the Rosé brings a little more fruit and depth, while the Grand Vintage has the structure and complexity to work with his more layered dishes. The Ice works beautifully with spice, citrus and brighter flavours. What's important for us is that the Champagne and the food feel connected — that neither one dominates, but that each brings something out of the other to create a memorable experience for our guests."

Tickets for the tasting menu and Champagne pairing evening at Rare are €165 per person. With very limited availability, guests are advised to book early. For bookings, email bookings@bluehavenkinsale.com or find out more at www.bluehavenkinsale.com.

Follow Rare at Blue Haven on social at @rarekinsale for the latest news and updates.

Summer colours shine in brilliant sunny weather in Blarney Castle and Garden

Summer colours shine in brilliant weather in Blarney Castle Gardens

Taking Flight. Ester Barrett

 

The Stump

Juliet. Eamonn Ceannt

Curious

Sweet Pea tepee 

Dahlia 'Orange Emperor',

Clematis 'The President'

Garden Phlox

Sarracenia (carniverous)

Hanging Basket, one of many making a 
spectacular display near the ticket office.

Pics above 15.08.2026

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

Blarney lake, house, butterfly

Painted Lady Butterfly at Blarney Castle today.
They arrive here each summer from North Africa and Southern Europe.
More on their amazing multi-generational migration here. 

Lake, vegetation

Blarney House, horses

pics 07.23.2026

Blooming Spectacular in