2018 Award Winners OUTSTANDING GUEST EXPERIENCE AWARD 2018

Quinlan & Cooke Boutique Townhouse and Seafood Restaurant, Caherciveen, Co Kerry

What makes a great hospitality experience? Ireland is blessed with a generous sprinkling of those uniquely satisfying places where interesting and enriching surroundings combine with owners who are exceptionally gifted in hospitality and - by leaving no stone unturned to ensure the comfort and enjoyment of their guests - convey that gift to everyone. This unusual destination is one of those special places.

Kate and Andrew Cooke’s atmospheric bar and restaurant with rooms abounds with character - coming in off the street on chilly days, customers find a welcoming fire burning in the enormous old fireplace, while nautical antiques and pictures reflect a special love affair with the sea - and a striking modern zinc-topped bar hints at a more adventurous side to their taste.

Serving ultrafresh local fish and seafood supplied by the family company, Quinlan’s Kerry Fish at Renard’s Point (who have a shop across the road), QC's Seafood Restaurant has been a favourite Kerry destination for over 15 years.

Over that time the intrepid couple have also overcome what must have seemed like an unending series of obstacles to develop some splendidly spacious and stylish townhouse accommodation on site, and it is now equally sought out for its quality, individuality and quirky contemporary style.

An astonishing range of wonderful things are laid on here for the comfort and enjoyment of guests - but it's the hands-on involvement of Kate and Andrew themselves that makes this such a special place to visit.