Legendary Cliff’s Louth breakfast!
A little café in Castlebellingham got a big surprise on Sunday morning when a living legend popped in for a spot of breakfast.
Honey Beez Coffee House in the small Co Louth village didn’t even have time to roll out the red carpet for international singer and actor Cliff Richard, who paid an unscheduled visit while staying in the local castle.
Brother and sister owners Ciara and Sean Muckian were caught unawares as the 77-year old singer slipped unnoticed into an already packed restaurant!
“I have to say we were so busy that it was only when I went over to take his order I realised who he was,” says Ciara with a giggle.
“When I saw who it was, I just said ‘Oh hello, how are you?’, and we didn’t have much more time to chat as the place was full of customers.”
Sir Cliff is in the country to kick off his 60th anniversary tour and was staying at Castlebellingham Castle ahead of his appearance at 3 Arena, Dublin.
“They don’t serve breakfast in the castle, so they sent him down to us, and I just had time to send it over to him and didn’t really get talking to him at the table, but he was very pleasant and polite when ordering,” adds Ciara.
“Needless to say, we’ve been off our feet ever since word got out, and people want to sit at his table, which was by the door, in case he had to make a quick getaway, I suppose.”
Ciara just had time to nip out and get a photograph with him before he left, and she could finally explain to her younger brother who he was!
“Neither of us really know any of his music, but when I sang the Christmas song ‘Mistletoe and Wine’ to Sean, he eventually knew who I meant,’ adds the 26-year-old cafe owner.
“And I must say, he looks very good for his age!”
Just three years shy of his 80th birthday, perhaps his youthful appearance and energy can be put down to his diet. Ciara says he shunned the big fry up, in favour of the healthy option of smoked salmon, avocado and gluten-free toast!