Localbusinesses honouredatregional restaurantawards

WICKLOW’S status as gourmet county of the Ancient East has been recognised with success in the regional restaurant awards, according to Deputy Andrew Doyle.

‘ The Pigeon House in Delgany, Campo de Fiori, The Strawberry Tree at Brooklodge & Macreddin Village, Platform Pizza Bar , Happy Pear, Pink Salt Indian Restaurant, Butler & Barry Gastropub, La Touche Wines 4 U, The Harbour Bar, Firehouse Bakery & Bread School, Noah’s Ark Restaurant Café Cowfish all receiving awards from The Irish Restaurants Association,’ said Deputy Doyle.

He said that the awards prove that the county has a lot to offer food lovers and is a great gourmet destination.

‘ This is great news for County Wicklow and means it is getting the recognition it deserves as the gourmet county of the Ancient East. These are fantastic restaurants and I’m delighted to see that they’re being recognised for serving top quality food, that is often sourced in Wicklow and for providing excellent service, a combination that is so vital to the tourism industry here in Wicklow.’

The Firehouse Café and Bakery won best café in Wicklow, the owner Patrick Ryan said ‘ this award is the icing on the cake for the café especially after Storm Emma where staff pulled together to get the café and the bakery reopened. I really appreciate the continued support from the local community and thank the customers who voted for us.’

Noah’s Ark in Bray won best customer service and other awards included best casual dining (Campo di Fiori), and best pub (The Harbour Bar).

This year was the 10thyear for the Irish Restaurant Association awards and most successful year yet, with over 80,000 online nominations received.

The awards were held in the Knightsbrook Hotel in Trim recently, and the ceremony was attended by 550 people. The top establishments in each of the 11 counties were named at the event.