A little bit of France in the centre of Kenmare, this gorgeous bakery and café is first port of call for many fans returning each year - and a perfect spot to pick up some seriously delicious bits and pieces for a picnic, or to take back to a self catering base.
Real French patisserie is rare enough outside France, but thanks to the skills of the French chef-owner, Patrick Puech - and also the fact that he and his wife, Emma, import some key ingredients, such as flour and butter, to ensure that authentic taste of France - this is one of the few places where you will find it in Ireland.
Yes, Irish ingredients are wonderful - and indeed they are proud to sell some carefully selected local artisan products here, such as smoked salmon, cheeses and chocolate - but they do not taste the same as the French ingredients that are needed for some specialities. So fans happily queue for Patrick's breads, including proper baguettes, along with exquisite cakes and patisserie, generously loaded with crème patissière and gleaming fruits...
Although in more spacious premises with several rooms since moving down the street (to the former 'Jam'), there's still a happy squeeze in the front café area, where terrific Java Republic coffee and selections from the menu board behind the counter are served - and there's always a great buzz between the tables as old friends and new share the chat.
And, since 2022, Maison Gourmet has added a new string to its bow, with the evening opening of a bistro-wine bar, Le Bar à Vin, which is run by Patrick and Emma's son Mael (the sommelier) and chef Jade Caulier. Offering “Fine dining, but casual, with local ingredients”, it's the perfect complement to the daytime bakery and café.
Atmospheric and beautiful, Maison Gourmet and Le Bar à Vin have jointly become one of the top must-visit spots in this charming town.
