Murphy-Brownes: What’s in a name?

MURPHY-BROWNES Restaurant is much more than a coming together of surnames, it’s also about an amalgamation of culinary ideals. This restaurant prides itself on its simplicity and commitment to customer focus which is a concept Denis Murphy and Deirdre Browne hold in common.

Denis and Deirdre are friends who share a passion for food and they can boast of a lifetime’s experience in the trade, which is welcome news for diners looking to enjoy a tasty and enjoyable culinary experience. Formally known as The Smokehouse, construction of Murphy-Brownes started in January 2018 and it was opened in mid-April. Since then Denis and Deirdre have had customers ask: ‘is the restaurant named after a famous US TV show in the 1980s’ to ‘Is it a franchise?’ which is kudos to what is a catchy name.

While the restaurant is very much a dream come through for Denis and Deirdre, they know that success is predicated on having a strong personal ethos. In short: the best produce sourced from local suppliers. Staff retention is also essential as this is what builds a lasting rapport with diners.

In the restaurant industry experience is everything and Denis and Deirdre have it in abundance. Denis studied Hotel Management at CIT, while Deirdre - also a graduate of CIT - studied Culinary Arts. Denis has worked in Dromoland Castle’s fine dining restaurant and he was part of the opening team in the Brehon Hotel in 2004. He also spent 5-years at sea on the Seabourn Cruise liner developing his food and beverage skills.

Deirdre is a chef by trade and she too has worked in many local establishments in recent years, including the Royal Hotel. She also managed The Grand Hotel and Stonechat Restaurant in Killarney.

But Deirdre wanted to develop a better work/life balance which is when she approached Denis about the idea of opening the restaurant; an adventure they have worked hard at ever since. Their project was equally enhanced by the input of quality builders and tradesmen who ensured a seamless transition for Murphy-Brownes.

Together, Denis and Deirdre have created a restaurant that is both comfortable and classy with a warm atmosphere, bolstered by the inclusion of friendly and efficient staff serving delicious food.

Picture: Eamonn Keogh. Mayor of Killarney Niall Kelleher performs the official opening of Murphy Brownes Restaurant, High St, Killarney with proprieters Denis Murphy and Deirdre Browne, staff members, family and friends.