Local winners in Irish Restaurant Awards

Days Bazaar, Lalla, Browne’s on the Green, and Conor Murtagh’s Pub were announced as county winners in Leinster regional finals of the Irish Restaurant Awards last night.

More than 1,000 people attended the event at the Lyrath Hotel, Kilkenny.

The north Westmeath winners this year are:

Best Café: Days Bazaar, Mullingar.

Best Customer Service: Lalla, Mullingar.

Best Gastropub: Browne’s on the Green, Tyrrellspass.

Pub of the Year: Conor Murtagh’s Pub, Multyfarnham.

Brian Pierson of Days Bazaar said: “We’re over the moon with our award as Leinster winners for best cafe. Thank you to everyone who voted for us.”

The other Westmeath winners are:

Local Food Hero: Lynda McFarland, Lowe and Co, Athlone.

Innovator of the Year: Dead Centre Brewing, Athlone.

Best Sustainable Practices: Peadar’s Bar, Moate.

Best World Cuisine: Umami Sushi, Athlone.

Best Wine Experience: The Villager Bar & Restaurant, Glasson.

Best Newcomer: The Cellar Bistro, Athlone.

Best Contemporary Irish Cuisine: The Fatted Calf, Athlone.

Best Casual Dining: Il Colosseo, Athlone.

Employee Excellence Award: Dervla Egan, Kafe U, Athlone.

Best Hotel & Guesthouse Restaurant: Glasson Lakehouse.

Best Restaurant Manager: Martina Linehan, Beans and Leaves, Athlone.

Best Chef: John Coffey, Thyme Restaurant, Athlone.

Best Restaurant: Thyme Restaurant, Athlone.

Now that the county honours have been handed out, the regional and all-Ireland winners will be announced at the all-Ireland awards gala dinner in Dublin in May.

Paul Lenehan, president of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, said at last night’s event: “During these undoubtedly tough times for our industry, celebrating Ireland’s food and hospitality offering is as crucial as ever.

“Above all, the awards give us the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the hard work of Ireland’s talented restaurant, café and food-led hospitality staff.

“These awards highlight the resilience and innovation in our food industry. Behind every great dish is a team of individuals committed to creating memorable dining experiences.

“As ever, this year’s Leinster Regional Final showcased the very best of the region’s culinary talent. I would personally like to extend my congratulations to all the winners and nominees for their dedication and passion.”