2024 Award Winners BIJOU FINE DINING RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2024

Restaurant Chestnut, Ballydehob, Co Cork

‘Small’ is not the word for this famously big-hearted little restaurant – but ‘bijou’ describes the former pub well, as it really is a little gem. Gifted chef and West Cork native Rob Krawczyk already had a keen following when he and his partner and host, Elaine Fleming, opened here in 2018 - and it was the perfect choice for them as, not only is Ballydehob a thriving culinary hotspot with easy access to all of the area’s stunning produce, but it’s also just a short drive from Rob’s hometown of Schull, where his father Frank established the pioneering charcuterie business, West Cork Salamis, in the 1990s. After settling in and then getting through the disruptions of the pandemic, Chestnut is now steering a steady course with a thoughtfully combined offering that is well designed to please all, from the most dedicated of fine dining customers who will love the full tasting menu, to those who will be happier with the shorter but equally delicious early evening option – or the relaxed ‘Upstairs at Chestnut’, offering a delightfully sociable (and very affordable) menu of Small Plates, Nibbles & Snacks. Always focused on cooking and presenting the best possible local seasonal ingredients in a very contemporary and approachable way and teaming memorable dishes with carefully selected wines, a meal at this intimate restaurant is a must when visiting West Cork.