Down by the River Lee. Early-ish on a Saturday morning

Down by the River Lee. 

Saturday morning in Cork City

October 19th, 2024

Had no breakfast that morning and looking at this made me hungrier.
Luckily, the Marina Market was a few steps behind me.

It was still dark (just before 8.00am) on my way south. You can see the moon high above
Patrick's Bridge. Below is the Bus Station at Parnell Place.

On the way back, I enjoyed the breakfast at the Marina Market before walking up the quays. 

Here the water and reflections have been slightly disturbed by rowing boats, 

always on the river on Saturdays

Penrose Dock is one of the newest buildings on the quays.

Osteria Da Mirco, one of the best and most authentic. Fronted by Cork’s favourite Italian!

Osteria Da Mirco, one of the best and most authentic.

Fronted by Cork’s favourite Italian.

Tagliere Da Mirco

Mirco Fondrini is a beloved Italian figure in Cork. He has a strong affinity for the city, including its football club, and maintains close ties with his home region of Valtellina in Northeast Italy. Along with his team of Italian chefs, he showcases this passion at Osteria Da Mirco, widely regarded as one of the finest and most authentic Italian restaurants in Ireland.

He established Da Mirco in 2018. An Osteria is a traditional Italian tavern that serves good wine, simple dishes, and a warm welcome. Da Mirco’s is genuine and genial, meeting all those criteria and more.

Many Italian menus are extensive and most include a wide variety of pizza options. However, this is not the case here. The menu is concise and does not offer pizza. It may be short, but the quality is exceptional. Additionally, there is a great sense of humour. You can catch Mirco’s entertaining videos on his Instagram to experience his amiable character.

Monkfish

To get a sense of the restaurant's ambiance, you should head to Bridge Street and give it a try. It's a delightful combination of Italian expertise and Irish ingredients••, complemented by produce and wine from Valtellina, where the owner—he's also a sommelier — gained experience in the food industry.

When we visited last week, we couldn't resist starting with the Tagliere Da Mirco. This flavorful platter is loaded with Italian cured meats and cheeses, pickled giardiniera, and tomato jam. They also provided a basket of their delicious house-made focaccia bread. It's truly a delightful experience, a Mamma Mia one, just as Mirco would say himself!

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It's has been a busy year, eating out around Ireland (Munster Mainly). Check our current list here.

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For my main course, I chose the Maccheroni Ragu Di Salsiccia, a fantastic dish of homemade macaroni served in an Italian sausage and rosemary ragu, topped with a mix of bread crumbs and grated parmesan. It was another fantastic moment, cue more Mamma Mia! The ribbed macaroni tubes perfectly captured the ragu and were generously coated inside and out. The bowl was left spotless, and the remaining focaccia came in handy for savouring the last of the exceptional ragu!

Maccheroni Ragu Di Salsicca

Just to inform you, the cosy, atmospheric restaurant offers two menus: the Monthly Menu and the Tasting Experience Menu. Additional details, including menu options and prices, can be found here. 

In addition, there are usually two specials, one of which is pasta-based. During our visit, we were offered the pasta dish Mezze Maniche, also known as "half sleeves." This tubular ridged pasta variety is incredibly versatile. In this dish, it was combined with mussels and guanciale.

However, our choice was the Rana Pescatrice, also known as Monkfish. In Italy, it is often prepared with tomatoes and olives, but here, it was combined with a rustic mix of aubergine and carrot. Overall, it is a winning combination, with the perfectly cooked fish looking pristine.

We had wine, Italian, of course. The list has many options, including some available by the glass (125 ml or 175). I enjoyed my velvety and spicy Primitivo Bocca Della Verita’ Salento, while CL was enthusiastic about the zingy Pecorino Cu Ciu Marlettaie Officio.

Pere Nel Marsala Nocciole

"Of course, Mirco makes a great Tiramisu, but this time we chose the Pere Nel Marsala Nocciole. This delightful dessert is soaked in sweet Sicilian fortified wine (Marsala), paired with hazelnut cake sponge, and served with vanilla cream. It was the perfect conclusion to our meal."

* By the way, if you are coming from the west or northeast of the city, remember the Number 208 bus stops just outside Mirco’s door. The 207 also stops here. Go on, go public and allow yourself a glass of wine!

** Irish producers that are supported here include:

O'Mahony's The Market Butcher, English Market - Cork O'Sullivan's Poultry & Eggs, English Market - Cork Ballycotton Seafood, English Market - Cork Glenmar Shellfish, Union Hall - Co. Cork Terre Ignis, English Market - Cork Kilbrack Farm, Donerail - Co. Cork.

Food for Humans Farm, Ballinhassig - Co. Cork Bushby Strawberries, Rosscarberry - Co. Cork Real Olive Company, English Market - Cork Pana Artisan Bread, Midleton - Co. Cork .

Purato Nero D’Avola Sicilia. Soft, fruity red from Sicily with impeccable organic credentials

Purato Nero D’Avola Sicilia (DOC) 2022, 13.5% ABV

€16.00 Bubble Brothers

Green in the extreme. Soft, fruity red from Sicily with impeccable organic credentials

There is no mistaking the Purato range's commitment—certified carbon neutral—to minimising the environmental impact of its excellent everyday wines.

Not only are they made from organically grown grapes, but the bottles, labels, and cartons for the range are, as far as possible, made from recycled materials, and pure vegetable inks are used in printing.

This 2022 is an intense ruby red colour. The bouquet is fresh and cherry-scented. It is supple and rounded, with silky-smooth tannins. Highly Recommended.

Its layers of flavour make it an excellent accompaniment to meat and tomato dishes—so it's perfect with lasagne, pizza, spaghetti Bolognese and vegetarian meals.

The Nero d’Avola grape is indigenous to Sicily and an ideal choice for organic production because it is suited to the local conditions and has evolved to resist the particular challenges posed by Sicily’s climate and soils. 

These particular grapes come from organic vineyard slopes in the Trapani area. After de-stemming, the grapes are very gently pressed. Once fermentation is finished, the wine is racked off, and malolactic fermentation takes place.

• This post is part of a series on Italian wines made from native grapes and produced by usually small or medium-sized organic wineries. Taking some “guidance” here from the recently published VINO. They mightn’t always net the hat trick, but I hope to score two from the three each time. I have quite a few lined up, but I’m happy to consider any suggestions or help. #OrganicItaly
• See the expanding list of #OrganicItaly wines here

Altano Organic Red Douro. An appealing little beauty.

Altano Organic Red Douro (DOC) 2021, 13.5% ABV

€18.95 O’Briens

An appealing little beauty

This organic red wine is a beautiful, well-balanced wine with a deep garnet colour. It has a lovely aroma of ripe red fruits and offers a supple yet smooth intensity on the balanced palate. You'll notice a hint of spice, sweet tannins, and refreshing acidity, leading to a harmonious, long finish. This elegant wine comes Very Highly Recommended.

The Douro is the most well-known of the Portuguese wine regions, largely due to its historic connections with Port. The Symington family, with its century-old history in the trade, is now increasingly involved in the production of still wine, like most of its counterparts in the country.

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Check out our Top 2023 Wines here.

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Check out the Good Value Wine List here

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As one of the top producers in the area, they are experts in handling the region's famous grapes, resulting in this gorgeous little organic red. Portuguese wines are gaining recognition despite the challenge of not having the same easy grape recognition as mono-varietal wines from other countries, such as Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand or Malbec from Argentina.

This Altano wine is made from Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, Touriga Nacional, and Tinto Cão grapes and is 100 percent organic. It is recommended to serve it at 14 to 17 degrees Celsius. Suggested pairings are cheese, charcuterie, red meat, and hearty stews.

FESTIVE NIGHTS AT CAHERNANE HOUSE HOTEL, KILLARNEY, CO. KERRY

Press release

#hotelswinter24

FESTIVE NIGHTS AT CAHERNANE HOUSE HOTEL, KILLARNEY, CO. KERRY

 

The historic, four-star Cahernane House Hotel in Killarney, Co. Kerry, invites guests to indulge in a magical escape this festive season.  Nestled on its own private grounds just off the Muckross Road and minutes from the breathtaking Killarney National Park and lakes, this elegant country house hotel is the ideal destination for those seeking a cosy and enchanting festive or New Year’s Eve retreat.

 

The Festive Nights, Cahernane Delights package invites guests to escape during Christmas week, allowing them to revel in the hotel’s twinkling decorations and festive spirit. This package includes a luxurious 1 or 2-night stay, full Irish breakfast each morning, a welcoming glass of Prosecco, a three-course evening meal with a bottle of house wine in Herbert’s Restaurant, and late checkout at 1 pm on the day of departure. (Price from €338 per person sharing).

As the year draws to a close, the hotel also invites guests to celebrate with its New Year's Gourmet Getaway. This luxurious package includes a 1 or 2-night stay, full Irish breakfast, a pre-dinner cocktail reception, and a sumptuous seven-course tasting menu at Herbert’s Restaurant. Guests can ring in the New Year with live music and a complimentary glass of champagne for the midnight toast, ensuring a celebration that is both memorable and magical. Sean and Edel Treacy will provide musical entertainment in the Drawing Room to ring in the New Year (Price from €245 per person sharing for one nights’ stay).

 

With open log fires crackling in the hearth, original antiques gracing the rooms, and beautifully preserved architectural details, Cahernane House Hotel evokes a sense of timeless charm. General Manager Emer Corridan and her dedicated team ensure that every guest receives a warm welcome, creating a home-away-from-home experience. The bespoke rooms in the Manor House exude elegant sophistication, while the stunning Garden Wing and Coach House rooms offer a luxurious escape. The eight beautifully appointed bedrooms situated in the former Coach House are the perfect choice for a multi-generational family stay or for a group of friends.  Once a modest stone-cut building, it was originally built in 1877 to house the grand horse-drawn carriages and related tack belonging to the Herbert family who were the original builders and residents of Cahernane House.

 

Guests are invited to unwind in the hotel’s cozy library, a perfect spot to curl up with a good book or enjoy a cup of tea by the fire. The elegant drawing room, featuring a grand open fire, offers a sophisticated setting for afternoon tea or evening conversations, adding to the warmth of the festive atmosphere. After invigorating walks nearby at Killarney National Park and its stunning lakes, guests can feel the wild Kerry air on their faces before retreating to the fireplace in the elegant drawing room with a fine Irish whiskey in hand.

 

Culinary excellence is a hallmark of the Cahernane experience, thanks to Executive Chef Cormac Vesey and his talented team who bring a wealth of creativity and skill to the kitchen. Inspired by the seasons and local produce, Chef Vesey crafts exceptional dishes that showcase the finest ingredients available. From hearty, comforting fare to innovative gourmet creations, the menus at both Herbert’s Restaurant and the Cellar Bar are a celebration of flavours that change with the seasons, ensuring each meal is a unique experience. Guests can look forward to indulging in beautifully presented dishes, prepared with great flair and an emphasis on sustainability and local produce.

Cahernane House Hotel is not just a place to stay this festive season; it’s a destination where cherished memories are made and the spirit of the season truly comes alive.

For more information on festive breaks at Cahernane House Hotel, visit www.cahernane.com.

 

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Amazing Autumnal Breaks in County Kildare

Discover the Magic of Autumn with a Relaxing Hotel Break in County Kildare

Carton House

To celebrate the arrival of autumn, participating hotels across County Kildare are offering
special seasonal packages. Known for its scenic landscapes, rich heritage, and luxurious
accommodations, Kildare offers the ideal destination for an enchanting break with an array
of exclusive autumn hotel packages, there’s never been a better time to unwind and enjoy all
that this beautiful county has to offer. Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat, a family
escape, or a

NEW AFTERNOON TEA MENU AT THE METROPOLE HOTEL FEATURES SEASONAL PRODUCE

 SEASONAL PRODUCE INSPIRES NEW AFTERNOON TEA MENU AT 

THE METROPOLE HOTEL 

Teatime at The Met for Pierce Lowney, Director of Food and Beverage at Trigon Hotels and Sandra Murphy, Group Brand and Communications Manager at Trigon Hotels. Pic: Brian Lougheed 

Seasonal and locally grown produce have inspired a new Autumn Afternoon Tea at the Metropole Hotel. 

The hotel's team is committed to supporting local suppliers and using seasonality when designing the menus. Trigon Hotels, which includes the Metropole Hotel and the Cork International Hotel, works with more than 20 local growers and producers and is always looking for new partners.  

Head Chef at the Metropole Hotel, Mark Cronin, and the team of chefs have transformed blackcurrants, chestnuts and pumpkins into delicate pastries and cakes to encapsulate the flavours of Autumn for the latest afternoon tea menu.

The sweet and savoury selection includes Blackcurrant and Ginger Delicacies on Crushed Hazelnuts, Freshly Baked Chai-Spiced Scones served with Folláin Blackcurrant Jam, and Poached Prawns in Lemon Mayonnaise on Edward Buckley Soda Bread.

The Autumn Afternoon Tea costs €40 per person and will be served in the Met Tea Room. It is available daily from 12pm to 4pm throughout the Autumn months. 

Pierce Lowney, Director of Food and Beverage at Trigon Hotels, said: “Autumn foods are rich in colour and flavour, and our team of chefs have designed an Afternoon Tea menu that brings the best of Autumn flavours to every bite. People can escape the cold and wet weather by relaxing in the Met Tea Room with delicious treats washed down with a cup of chai tea.”

On the menu is: 

PATISSERIE

Blackcurrant and Ginger Delice on Crushed Hazelnuts 

Revisited Famous MET Trifle 

Chocolate Marquise with Fig Jam & Candied Chestnuts 

Pear & Salted Caramel Choux Bun

BAKERY

Freshly Baked Chai Spiced Scones, Folláin Blackcurrant Jam, Irish Salted Butter and Fresh Cream 

White Chocolate & Chai Blondie, Toasted Pecan

Iced Pumpkin Bundt Cake

SAVOURY

Smoked Chicken, Fennel & Grape Crostini 

Pastrami, Dijon Mayonnaise, Emmental & Baby Lettuce Leaves on White Bread 

Poached Prawn in a Lemon Mayonnaise on Edward Buckley Soda Bread 

Cucumber, Mint and Crème Fraiche on Granary Bread

Pre-booking is essential and reservations can be made online https://www.themetropolehotel.ie/dining/the-met-cork/afternoon-tea/

press release

On the craft trail with Eight Degrees, Connemara and Trouble Brewing

On the craft trail with Eight Degrees, Connemara and Trouble Brewing

Eight Degrees Déjà Vu Hopfenweisse, 7.5% ABV, 440 ml can No 21 Coburg St

Buy-Back Brewers Bounce Back

This Hopfenweisse is the welcome-back shot from the Antipodean founders of Eight Degrees, who had just bought back the brewery. It may be a Weisse, but the Naturally Adventurous duo, while happy to brew traditional styles traditionally, have never been keen on just imitating. Here, as is their wont,  they have added their own twist!

“We’ve created a beer that epitomises our love for taking traditional beer styles and adding a modern twist.” Weissbiers come in varying styles, and you don't find Hopfenweisse in many style listings, but they can be placed alongside beers such as Hefeweizen. 

According to Han-Peter Drexler, brewmaster of respected weiss brewers Schneider, wheat beer is not the easiest of beers to brew: “For me, wheat beer is terrible to produce…..but the result is amazing if everything works perfectly.”

You can expect a large foamy head in wheat beers, and here, above a clear amber/golden body (well populated with rising bubbles), the Deja Vu delivers. Another wheat beer characteristic is banana in both aromas and on the palate, and it also shows. The Eight Degrees difference comes from the hops, including the dry hopping with Mandarina Bavaria, adding a well-judged input of sweet tropical citrus notes to an already attractive beer. Quite an ale by the comeback kids and Very Highly Recommended.

Geek Bits

Style: Hopfenweisse
Malt: Irish malted barley, wheat.
Hops: Amarillo, dry hopped with Mandarina Bavaria.
ABV: 7.5%

Connemara Irish Ale, 4.5% ABV, 330 ml can Lidl

an open fermented ale

Our Connemara Irish Ale comes with a soft, foamy head over a  red-orange body. Juicy, yes, and full of flavour, yet there is something “old-fashioned” about the palate, and that should be expected as this is an open fermented ale. Connemara is a taste journey from first sip to last, thanks to the use of traditional recipes and the best possible local ingredients sourced directly from carefully selected producers.

They say: “Our masterly crafted recipe produces a taste explosion from start to finish. A perfect hop medley and yeast blend provides our ale with a flavour that will make you want more. Irish ale has a long and dignified history. We've kept to those traditional values by producing an open fermented ale with a reddish hue and a beautifully sweet palate that is bursting with hop flavour while remaining low in bitterness. It's like Connemara sunset in a glass.” I wouldn’t disagree!

Very Highly Recommended.

Trouble Brewing Little Monster Pale Ale,  3.5% ABV,

440 ml can Bradleys 

Recommended for a session!

The colour of our Little Monster is pale orange, with a brilliant, if short-lived, white head and shoals of bubbles rushing towards the top. The aromas are citrusy and tropical. The flavours are unexpectedly intense for the ABV and closely follow the aromas, with mango and pineapple among the tropical notes. Additionally, there is a quite bitter element from the hops. The beer is refreshing with a lip-smacking, dry finish. The ingredients include oats, wheat, and rye, as well as malt and yeast, of course.

Little Monster was launched three years ago. The hops used are Sabro, Mosaic, Azacca, and El Dorado. Despite being 3.5%, it is quite flavourful and would more than hold its own in a session. Recommended.