2019 Award Winners CAFE OF THE YEAR 2019

Jack Fenn's Courtyard Café, Belleek Castle, Ballina, Co Mayo

This award gives recognition to the best of those valuable all-day operations – usually small and owner-run – which not only lift the visitor’s spirits in a flash, but also the reputation of any town or village lucky enough to be its chosen location. The Guide seeks out good cooking based on quality ingredients - and especially the home baking that can be the highlight of a day out. This one, however, goes a long way beyond home baking…

Situated just outside Ballina amidst 1,000 acres of woodland and forestry, on the banks of the River Moy, Paul Doran’s castle was the ancestral home of the Earl of Arran and, with a 16th century armoury, big open fires, quirky Armada Bar and massive chandeliers, it now makes an unusual small hotel. It manages to combine old world charm with modern comforts - and, offering impressive cooking of local and homegrown produce, the romantically candlelit restaurant is a special dining destination. In 2018 this gorgeous new café opened in the old stone courtyard adjacent to the castle and - not surprisingly, considering the atmospheric surroundings, great food, friendly staff and outdoor seating - it was a runaway success from day one.