Visiting West Cork's renowned highlights? Schull's Harbour Hotel is a superb, comfortable, and central base.

Visiting West Cork's renowned highlights?

Schull's Harbour Hotel is a superb, comfortable, and central base. 

Outstanding chocolate dessert at Schull Harbour Hotel

Schull Harbour Hotel, superbly located right in the

LET YOUR LOVE FLOW. VALENTINES AND GALENTINES AT THE LIMERICK STRAND HOTEL

 #Valentinepressrelease

LET YOUR LOVE FLOW BY THE BANKS OF THE RIVER SHANNON

VALENTINES AND GALENTINES AT THE LIMERICK STRAND HOTEL

Stay or dine this Valentine’s at the multi-award-winning hotel

 

 

With its breathtaking riverside setting, the 4-star Limerick Strand Hotel provides a magical backdrop for an unforgettable romantic encounter. It is the ideal destination for those wishing to embrace the beauty of life’s special moments.

FOR THE LOVERS

Stay and revel in a romantic overnight escape in one of their beautifully designed bedrooms. Indulge in a Valentine’s four-course dinner for two at the acclaimed River Room Restaurant, followed by a delightful breakfast the next morning, crafted by the most dedicated culinary team in the city.   

Spend some quality time together and take advantage of the hotel’s amazing Energize Health Centre, where couples can hit the gym or simply enjoy some laid-back leisure with a dip in one of their four pools, including a 20-metre swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, spa Jacuzzi, Swedish sauna and poolside showers, the perfect way to relax together. Limerick itself is a pretty place to wander about. Given the hotels’ idyllic location on the banks of the River Shannon, with stunning riverside vistas and the city’s most iconic landmarks within walking distance, such as the remarkable 13th century King Johns Castle, The People’s Park, and the River Shannon Viewing Points, it is the perfect choice for couples looking to explore cultural experiences together.  Later that evening, you will experience fine food and treats, enjoying the incredible Valentine’s Dinner in the AA rosette River Room Bar & Restaurant, complete with sharing board options (imagine local artisan charcuterie boards, Doonbeg oysters, and seafood towers). On arrival, guests are greeted with a glass of bubbles to set the romantic scene, followed by a candlelit 4-course dinner specially created by talented Executive Head Chef Paddy Anslow.  Passion for their location is evident on all menus, and for more than 10 years, they have been at the forefront of the ‘farm to fork’ and traceability food evolution. Using fresh, high quality and seasonal food, partnering with local farms and dairies wherever possible, ensure that guests enjoy a taste of the nearby Wild Atlantic Way in the heart of the Golden Vale. 

After a glorious night’s sleep, you and your companion will enjoy a hearty, award-winning breakfast before departure.

The Share the Love package is available to book on Friday, 14th, Saturday, 15th or Sunday, 16th of February and includes overnight accommodation, Valentine’s inspired dinner and breakfast for two adults from €169 per person sharing.

The Valentine’s special dining experience is open to non-residents and available to book on Friday, February 14^th, Saturday, February 15^th, and Sunday, February 16^th, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The 4-course dinner and a glass of bubbles costs €50 per person. Pre-booking is advised.  

GALENTINE'S

Alternatively, have a Galantine’s adventure and book their Bridget Jones-inspired Bottomless Brunch at The River Bar and Restaurant on Sunday, 16th February, with DJ is available to book (residents and non-residents) from 1–4 pm. Expect belting tunes from the DJ from the greatest hits from the films—yes, that includes “All By Myself,” “It’s Raining Men,” and more—all to sing along with a glass in hand, in true Bridget style. The brunch menu features such tasty bites, including the classics, Eggs Benedict, limerick ham, Croom free range poached egg on English muffin, hollandaise sauce or Chicken and waffle, crispy chicken breast, fried egg chips and maple syrup, plus other tasty mains and choice of dessert with tea or coffee. It is available to book (residents and non-residents) from 1–4 pm and includes bottomless prosecco top-ups for €50 per person. The mixologists are also working on a Mr Darcy cocktail special to purchase on the day priced at €12.

To make a reservation, call 061 421800 or hello@strandlimerick.ie 

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FIND ROMANCE THIS FEBRUARY

DELIGHT IN ROMANTIC EXPERIENCES AT GLENLO ABBEY HOTEL & ESTATE

Escape to Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate for an enhanced romantic experience this February.

Treat someone special to a beautiful overnight stay complete with log fires, lakeside walks around the estate, films, and thoughtful touches. Enjoy a warm welcome with a chilled bottle of champagne upon arrival. Savour a curated seasonal cocktail crafted by their expert mixologist. Relax at Glo Spa or watch a classic film in their private theatre. A romantic turndown service surprise awaits as you settle down for the night. Awaken to a seriously delicious cooked-to-order breakfast before departure.  The overnight experience with breakfast, a bottle of champagne, a cocktail, and romantic touches from € 359.

If you truly want to impress, why not extend your stay with a three-night midweek experience, including cream tea upon arrival, a canapé and drinks reception, and a talk on Glenlo's history? Begin each day with a cooked-to-order breakfast overlooking the 140-acre estate, and on the first morning, join the falconer for a Hawk Walk. Enjoy a cooking demonstration of Glenlo’s seafood chowder, followed by lunch at Palmers Bar     

        

Enjoy a matinee of “Murder on the Orient Express” followed by a candlelit dinner in the opulent surroundings of the River Room Restaurant, where the new Pullman Culinary Team, led by Head Chef Angelo Vagiotis, will showcase their skills, offering a taste of what's to come later this Spring. Spend the last day exploring Galway City and enjoy an Irish coffee demonstration in the historic Oak Cellar Bar. Conclude with a sumptuous breakfast before your departure. End the evening with dinner at Palmers. Depart on day four after another sumptuous breakfast.

 The three-night package includes two dinners, two lunches, cream tea, a canapé reception, a falconry show, a history talk, a cooking demonstration, a movie matinee, an Irish coffee demonstration, and costs from €1233.

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

 

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

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A Rare Romantic Getaway to Blue Haven in Kinsale

Evening starts with Moët at Rare!

 Surprise them with a romantic getaway to Ireland’s charming coastal Blue Haven Hotel in Kinsale and an intimate tasting menu at Rare Restaurant

This February, you are invited to experience a romantic escape with an unforgettable fine dining experience from award-winning Executive Chef Meeran Manzoor’s Tasting Menu at Rare at the Blue Haven Hotel in Kinsale. 

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque town of Kinsale, Blue Haven offers the ideal backdrop for couples seeking a quiet retreat with a refined dining experience inspired by Meeran’s South Indian heritage.

Known for its cobbled streets, vibrant harbour, and rich history, Kinsale is an ideal destination to explore with a loved one. Whether strolling through the town’s quaint galleries and shops, enjoying a leisurely walk, or simply relaxing at the hotel, every moment in Kinsale feels like a celebration of love.

Rare and Blue Haven Hotel promise to make the month of romance a celebration to remember with exclusive packages designed to create lasting memories. A Rare Romance Package starts at €190 per person sharing, which includes a Chef’s Tasting Menu Experience at Rare, a glass of Moët champagne, an overnight stay in either the award-winning Blue Haven Hotel or the boutique Old Bank Townhouse and breakfast the following morning. 

Guests can upgrade the experience with a box of artisanal chocolates from local Kinsale chocolatier Koko, a bottle of Moët or a bottle of exclusive Blue Haven Sauvignon Blanc, along with a bespoke floral bouquet from local florist Daisy Chain- all of which are arranged for you by your concierge prior to arrival.

Reservations are now open for the Rare Romantic Getaway at Rare and Blue Haven Hotel, available Thursday to Saturday throughout the month of February. To ensure availability, guests are encouraged to book early. 

For more information or to make a reservation, please visit  www.rare1784.ie or call 021 4772 209.

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

Rare at The Blue Haven is located in The Blue Haven Collection, Pearse Street, Kinsale, Co Cork, P17 NA72. 

Meeran Manzoor of Rare Restaurant in Kinsale Wins Ireland’s Chef of The Year

news:

Meeran Manzoor of Rare Restaurant in Kinsale

 Wins Ireland’s Chef of The Year

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A Blue Haven Double with gold also

in Best Family Run Hotel Group

Meeran Manzoor, Executive Head Chef of The Blue Haven Collection and Rare Restaurant, took home gold in Ireland’s Chef of The Year category at the Virgin Media Business Gold Medal Awards. Winners were announced on Tuesday 30th January at a black tie event held in the Galmont Hotel & Spa in Galway.

Meeran said “It is always a great feeling to get recognised, and it gives both me and the team a boost of motivation going into the new year. This award also honours my amazing team in Rare, I see it as a collective award for all of us, acknowledging all the hard work that goes into producing the food and experience we are so proud of in Rare.”

The menu in Rare is influenced by Meeran’s Tamil Nadu heritage; diners can choose from a five-course tasting menu or a seven-course tasting menu which are both available with wine pairings. 

Judged by industry experts, the Virgin Media Gold Medal Awards recognise and reward excellence in hospitality and catering operations across Ireland. The judging panel reviews a set of criteria including a blind site inspection to decide the winners of each category. 

The Blue Haven Collection also won Best Family Run Hotel Group in Ireland at the Virgin Media Gold Medal Awards. The collection includes The Blue Haven Hotel, The Old Bank Townhouse and The Schull Harbour Hotel, Hamlets Bar & Kitchen, Kielys of Cork and Black Barrel Midleton. 

Rare at The Blue Haven is located in The Blue Haven Hotel on Pearse Street, Kinsale, Co Cork. For more information see www.rare1784.ie

Cork City newcomer Paladar is Bar of the Year!

 

2023 Bar of the Year Awards Winners Announced!

Paladar in Co. Cork was named Bar of the Year at this year's prestigious Bar of The Year Awards ceremony which took place in the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road. Celebration time for Paladar and Cask

Amongst the galaxy of contenders, the most exceptional bars have been recognized and celebrated for their extraordinary contributions to the hospitality industry. These establishments have elevated the art of mixology, ambiance, and service, captivating patrons with unforgettable experiences.

After rigorous evaluation and deliberation by an esteemed panel of industry experts only the best in the industry were crowned winners. Amongst many other winners on the night, Bar No 23. at The Merrion Hotel in Co.Dublin took home Gold for "Five Star Hotel Bar of the Year" Sponsored by London Essence, while BAR 1661 took home Gold for "Innovative Bar of the Year", Sponsored by Istil 38.

The winners were announced on Monday, the 21st of August at a gala awards ceremony hosted by Anton Savage at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road. Montenotte's Ray Kelleher has an even bigger smile than usual!

Bar of the Year 2023 Winners

5 Star Hotel Bar of the Year Gold Winner - Bar No 23. at The Merrion Hotel, Co.Dublin Silver Winner - The Courtyard Bar at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel, Co.Kildare Bronze Winner - The Sidecar Bar at The Westbury, Co.Dublin Sponsored by London Essence Bar Food of the Year Gold Winner - Blake's Bar Galway, Co.Galway Silver Winner- The Blue Haven Kinsale, Co.Cork Bronze Winner - The Hideout, Co. Kildare Best Bar To Watch The Match Gold Winner - Woolshed Baa & Grill Cork, Co.Cork Silver Winner - Dignam’s Bar, Co. Monaghan Bronze Winner - Buskers On The Ball, Co. Dublin Sponsored by Sky Business Best Designed Bar / Inside Space Gold Winner - The Montenotte Hotel, Co. Cork Silver Winner - The Gables, Co. Dublin Bronze Winner - Paladar, Co. Cork Best Live Entertainment Bar Gold Winner - The Porter House, Co. Mayo Silver Winner - The Blue Haven Kinsale, Co. Cork Bronze Winner - O’Donoghue Public House, Co. Kerry Best Newcomer Gold Winner - Paladar, Co. Cork Silver Winner - Kodiak, Co. Dublin Bronze Winner - The Gables, Co. Dublin Best Value Pub Gold Winner - Oasis Bar, Co. Donegal Silver Winner - The Black Forge Inn, Co. Dublin City Bar of the Year Gold Winner - Left Bank, Co. Kilkenny Silver Winner - Lemon & Duke, Co. Dublin Bronze Winner - The Front Door Pub, Co. Galway Sponsored by Schweppes Cocktail Bar of the Year Gold Winner - BAR 1661, Co. Dublin Silver Winner - Paladar, Co. Cork Bronze Winner - 9 Below, Co. Dublin Sponsored by Maker's Mark Craft Bar of the Year Gold Winner - Caribou, Co. Galway Silver Winner - Lock 13 Brewpub, Co. Kildare Bronze Winner - Impala, Co. Cork Gastro Bar of the Year Gold Winner - The Dew Drop Inn & Brewhouse, Co. Kildare Silver Winner - Monks, Co. Clare Bronze Winner - Russells Seafood Bar, Doolin, Co. Clare Sponsored by Classic Drinks Gin Bar of the Year Gold Winner - Andy’s Bar Monaghan, Co. Monaghan Silver Winner - Tigh Nora, Co. Galway Bronze Winner - HYDE Bar & Gin Parlour, Co. Galway Sponsored by Xin Gin Hotel Bar of the Year Gold Winner - HYDE Bar, Co. Galway Silver Winner - The Montenotte Hotel, Co. Cork Bronze Winner - Dunes Bar & Bistro at Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa, Co. Cork Sponsored by Tia Maria Innovative Bar of the Year Gold Winner - BAR 1661, Co. Dublin Silver Winner - Nevins Newfield Inn, Co. Mayo Bronze Winner - Cask, Co. Cork Sponsored by Istil 38 Late Bar / Nightclub of the Year Gold Winner - 37 Dawson Street, Co. Dublin Silver Winner - r.i.o.t. Dublin, Co. Dublin Bronze Winner - 1314 at Jerry Flannerys, Co. Limerick Local Bar of the Year Gold Winner - Dignam’s Bar, Co. Monaghan Silver Winner - Peadars Bar Moate, Co. Westmeath Bronze Winner - The Railway Tavern, Fahan, Co. Donegal Sponsored by New Payment Innovation Limited Outside Space of the Year Gold Winner - House Dublin, Co. Dublin Silver Winner - Kenny’s of Lucan, Co. Dublin Bronze Winner - Nevins Newfield Inn, Co. Mayo Outstanding Customer Service Award Gold Winner - The Landmark, Co. Dublin Silver Winner - Russell’s Saloon Gin Emporium, Co. Louth Bronze Winner - Harrigan’s Bar & Grill, Co. Kildare Sponsored by Cointreau Restaurant Bar of the Year Gold Winner - FIRE Steakhouse & Bar, Co. Dublin Silver Winner - The Club At Goffs, Co. Kildare Bronze Winner - Mama Yo, Co. Dublin Sponsored by Coole Swan Tourist Bar of the Year Gold Winner - The Brazen Head, Co. Dublin Silver Winner - The Locke, Co. Limerick Bronze Winner - Brass Fox Wicklow, Co. Wicklow Sponsored by QuickTips Traditional Bar of the Year Gold Winner - The Stag’s Head, Co. Dublin Silver Winner - Gracie’s Bar, Co. Sligo Bronze Winner - The Brazen Head, Co. Dublin Visitor Attraction of the Year Gold Winner - Roe & Co Distillery, Co. Dublin Silver Winner - Lock 13 Brewpub, Co. Kildare Bronze Winner - The Black Forge Inn, Co. Dublin Sponsored by Excel Recruitment Whiskey Bar Of The Year Gold Winner - The Shelbourne Bar Cork, Co. Cork Silver Winner - Sonny Molloy’s Irish Whiskey Bar, Co. Galway Bronze Winner - Costigan’s Pub, Co. Cork Sponsored by Roe & Co Pub Group of the Year Gold Winner - Nola Clan Sponsored by Alliance Ireland Staff Personality of the Year Ian Murray Bar Manager of the Year Conor Moloney People's Choice Award Dublin - The Black Forge, Co.Dublin Leinster - The Hideout, Co.Kildare Munster - The Locke, Co.Limerick Connacht / Ulster - McHughs Bar, Co.Leitrim Overall Winner - The Locke, Co.Limerick Judges Choice Winner - Jimmy Rabbittes Gail Cotter Special Recognition Award Winner - Mary Kerrigan, Clayton Hotel Burlington Road Bar of the Year Winner - Paladar Sponsored by Licensing World

A new South Indian influence and an interior uplift allow for an ever-evolving dining experience at Rare Restaurant in Kinsale

 

Warm Welcome and Superb Food at Finín’s of Midleton

Warm Welcome and Superb Food at Finín’s of Midleton

Venison

You walk in from the wind and the rain and there’s a buzz of conversation and then a smiling welcome and soon you are warming up at your table in Finin’s of Midleton on the last Thursday of 2022. It’s your final meal out of the year and it is a good one!

The packed downstairs room, and the staff  led by example by manager Tomislav, exudes welcome and warmth and you are immediately at ease, soon at your table and checking the menu from new Portuguese Head Chef Miguel Soares. 

Chicharrones

The long-standing and popular restaurant was taken over by Blue Haven of Kinsale and opened mid 2022 after a period of renovation. In addition to this downstairs room, with the a feature along much of one side, they have also opened the room upstairs. 

And there’s more to come.  The frontage, on the main street, is slated for a makeover. And there are plans are in hand for another upstairs space in 2023; this new private dining room cum Whiskey Tasting Room will be  in conjunction with Redbreast.  But you won’t have to wait until then for whiskey. They have a splendid selection in the bar and that includes the complete Mitchell & Son Spot collection.

The new owners are pleased with the way things are going here: We have ambitious plans to build Finins into something special over time including some exciting additions in the new year in conjunction with Red Breast with a new private dining room and Whiskey Tasting Room. 

We are very excited about what the future holds for Finins and appreciate the support and warm welcome we have received in Midleton and look forward to playing our part in the local community for many years to come. 

Croquettes

And we was well pleased with our meal there. You can start with either something from the Nibbles or Starters section on the menu or both! Don’t forget to check the Specials before you start  - the staff will tell you anyhow.

We shared the Slow Cooked Oxtail Croquettes (with Dijonnaise Sauce & Smoked Gubbeen Cheese) and the Pork Belly Chicharrones (served with Avocado Cream & Mojito Sauce). The first (5.50) was from Nibbles, the second (8.50) from Starters, and both were excellent though the Chicharrones were my favourite!

From this and a previous visit, it seems that their burgers along with Fish and Chips are very popular dishes here; the restaurant caters for family groups.

Finin’s responds to the seasons and I absolutely enjoyed the excellent Wild Venison Loin (with Celeriac Purée, Garden Peas, Berry Medley & Smoked Jus).  This was just exquisite, so tender, so well executed and those little berries added so much to it.

Apple Tart

Another excellent mains, enjoyed by CL,  is the East Cork Lamb Rump with Organic Carrot Purée, Romanesco, Caramelised Silver Skin Onions & Jameson Jus Barley. And each of our mains was accompanied by a side of mash and greens.

We finished off with a shared dessert of Apple Tart and cream. It was one of the better ones,  a terrific warm dish and a boost against the windy weather outside!

   

Opening Times: Tuesday - Saturday 12.00pm - 11.00pm; Serving food until 9.00pm

Address: 75 Main Street, Midleton, Co. Cork P25E6F7

Tel: (021) 463 1878. 

Web: Finín's

Wonderful Tasting Menu in Rare with chefs Meeran and Chad showcasing the Autumn bounty of Cork and Kerry

Wonderful Tasting Menu in Rare with chefs Meeran and Chad showcasing the Autumn bounty of Cork and Kerry

Teamwork. Concentration from chefs Meeran (right) and Chad (centre)

An rud is annamh is iontach!

Thought I might start with an old Irish proverb: what’s rare is wonderful.

And Kinsale’s Rare 1784 was certainly wonderful last Thursday night when Head Chef Meeran Manzoor and guest Chef Chad Byrne (Brehon Hotel) served up a six course festival of local food in one of the most comfortable dining rooms around.

Lots of nationalities involved in the kitchen and out front, including Rebel Cork and the Kingdom, plus a Rare crew that has people from India and Brazil and from places in between.

Chad, also well known for The Hungry Donkey food truck, brought a treasure trove of goodies from Kerry to the Blue Haven’s premier restaurant, including some of the finest cured and dried meats from Olivier in Dingle, Eileen’s black pudding from Annascaul, the famous Ardfert spuds, Wilma’s cheese, Venison from Beaufort, Wild Sloes and Cromane mussels.

Meeran, of course, has his finger on the pulse of all that’s best in Cork, particularly the growers and fishermen in and around Kinsale, and also adds a well judged touch of his native India. Both chefs and their crew were visible through a large window to the kitchen. They didn’t stay there, coming out regularly to detail the dishes and have a conversation or two with the tables.

And it wasn’t just in the kitchen that Rare excelled. The front of house team, led by restaurant manager Charlie, were busy but that didn’t mean they couldn’t have the odd chat with you. They came to the tables with big smiles, informal but on the ball, you never had to ask for water (or something stronger!).

Cheese, black pudding, potato

Quite a wine list! We started with two engaging whites. One was Carallan Albarino, a fine example of the wine of Rias Baixas,  quite pronounced on both the nose and fruity palate, excellent with the lighter dishes. The zesty Diez Siglos Verdejo, vibrant and intense, from Rueda (the home of the grape), paired well also with the earlier plates.

Love my BoJo

Later we moved on to two stunning reds. Gamay is always on my radar and I plumped for the organic Les Pépites Gneiss, fresh, fruity and nicely spicy. Big thumbs up for that and the same from the other side where CL renewed acquaintance with the multi-grape aromatic, fruity and intense (perfect with venison) Quinta do Judeu.

The dining started with the Organic Kerry Wild Meat Board (by Olivier), all kinds of tastes and textures (that soft goat chorizo!) and all superb. Then on to Jamie’s Oyster from nearby Oysterhaven, beautifully presented and accompanied by Alexander’s Jelly and a Ginger Beer Foam. Jamie’s oysters never disappoint and here the jelly and the foam enhanced it.

Scallop, Sole

And the plates just kept getting better. Eileen’s Annascaul Black Pudding made a huge tasty contribution as it combined with the renowned Ardsallagh Goats Cheese on an Ardfert potato skin!

Up next came the fish, a  two part perfectly cooked wonder with Union Hall Sole and Scallop in a Vol-au-Vent with a little Yuzu in the bisque. Chef Chad: “..really tasty dish of bang in season gear”.

Venison

Chocolate

For me the star course of the superb meal came with the Beaufort venison: Sika Deer, Cromane Mussels and Roasted Celeriac. The deer had been roasted for six to seven hours and was beautifully flavoured. The sloe jus was just amazing, a great fit with the meat. And that meat was as tender as can be, yielding easily to the blade of our  “chopper” knife!

A wee pause then before dessert came and that too was rather special: Chocolate, Salted Caramel and Kulfi. Meeran’s dark chocolate walnut cremeux was enhanced by Achill seasalt and Szechuan caramel and crunchy bits. Kulfi is a no-churn Indian ice cream. And there was also an Indian twist to the Petit Four that came in a mini-treasure chest!

Petit Fours

Quite a wonderful meal and occasion in Rare and there’s a promise of more. So do keep an eye on their socials!

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RareKinsale 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RareKinsale

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rarekinsale/