Formerly Finín’s, The Blue Haven Collection of Kinsale took over this Midleton institution of 45 years in 2022 and have since re-branded it The Black Barrel in honour of the the town's whiskey heritage - and it is more than a passing nod, as the new gastro-bar's USPs include a cocktail menu and whiskey tasting boards in partnership with Midleton Distillery.
The premises has been given a smart makeover and, as at the other members of the group (The Blue Haven Hotel and The Old Bank Townhouse in Kinsale, Kiely's in Cork City and, in Schull, The Schull Harbour Hotel), the philosophy is 'to source what's our on doorstep, both in terms of quality and environmentally. Every day we source from our local butcher Frank Murphy's, a few doors up, and Ballycotton Seafood across the street from us.'
It's a philosophy that's heartily embraced by Head Chef Timmy Warne, formerly of the excellent Ferrit and Lee just around the corner (and even closer to the distillery) and other suppliers listed on the website include Jack Cuthberts bakery in the town, The Village Greengrocer in Castlemartyr for fresh seasonal produce, John Wall's farm in Whitegate, just 20 minutes away, for potatoes, and Ballinrostig organic cheese, also from Whitegate.
So, a sound local foundation for some tasty fare. Both the lunch and evening menus are à la carte, with some overlap so your chances of finding some of the house specialities are good whatever the time of your visit. And, while there are plenty of alcohol-free dishes including ever-popular steaks and Fish & Chips, it should be no surprise to find that some products from around the corner may feature - the Jameson Black Barrel Chicken Liver Paté was a favourite from the get-go, for example.
Quite a few of the starters are available in two sizes - the very enjoyable Frank Murphy’s Black Pudding, Apple & Crispy Bacon Salad, for example, comes in at around €9 for a starter or €17 as a main course - and there's a page of Dinner Specials each night, offering the likes of a Mixed Sharing PLatter (Prosciutto, Salami, Serrano Ham & Organic Mature, Golden & Smoked Cheese from Ballirostig) and mains like Rack of East Cork Lamb.
Ever-popular desserts - Apple and mixed berry crumble, Eton Mess, an Ice Cream selection and a Cheesecake of the Day are all likely to feature - and they always go down a treat.
The full bar is proud to include the full selection of the Mitchell & Son Spot Whiskey collection, and lots of Jameson too - including Black Barrel, of course. Local beers include Blacks of Kinsale and there’s a good wine selection, much of it by the glass. Further highlighting the importance of the biggest local producer, a cocktail menu and whiskey tasting boards are offered in partnership with Midleton Distillery, and there are Meet the Maker pairing and whiskey tasting nights with Midleton Distillery and local food producers
It all adds up to a very interesting destination - and, with plenty of comfort and friendly and efficient staff, The Black Barrel provides all the ingredients for an excellent lunch or dinner outing.
