2020 Award Winners RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2020

Aimsir, Cliff at Lyons

The most keenly anticipated restaurant opening in recent years, the arrival of chef Jordan Bailey (from Cornwall and formerly head chef at top Scandinavian restaurant Maaemo, in Norway) and his Danish wife, Majken, and their restaurant Aimsir was a first for Ireland. It is a huge compliment to Ireland and the quality of its produce that they chose to settle in Co Kildare. Aimsir, meaning weather in Irish, is dedicated to "Celebrating what can be sown and harvested, fished and foraged on the island of Ireland" and Jordan’s exquisite 18-course tasting menu is 95% sourced within Ireland. Everything about Aimsir is meticulously planned and just right. And what lingers in the mind is not just the sheer creativity and skill, or even the deep flavours and extraordinary attention to detail - but, especially, the warmth, friendliness, enthusiasm and charm that make for a memorable dining experience. It’s a one off.