August 2010: Ireland’s Blue Book, MICHELIN-STARRED member Chapter One has been chosen as Ireland’s best restaurant by Food & Wine magazine for the second year in a row. “Highly commended” was the ever-popular L’Ecrivain in Dublin, and “commended” was the lovely Gregans Castle in Co Clare. The awards, in their 10th year, were presented at the Four Seasons Hotel in Dublin on Sunday August 22nd.
Chapter One’s chef-proprietor, Ross Lewis, also won the Penfolds chef of the year award with fellow Blue Book member Derry Clarke from L’Ecrivain “commended”.
Gregans Castle won the Best Restaurant in Munster, with Michael Viljanen the resident chef in Gregans also winning the Best Chef in Munster Award.
L’Ecrivain was the winner of the Style Award, with Gregans Castle “Commended” in this category also. Best Service Award 2010 was awarded to Park Hotel Kenmare, with Chapter One “commended”. In the Leinster Best Restaurant Award, Dunbrody House was “highly commended”.
One of Ireland’s best-known chefs, Darina Allen of Ballymaloe House in Co Cork, also won a hall of fame award.
Mr Golden-Bannon said Irish restaurants continue to innovate, despite the recession.“The sector is an example to businesses across the country; in the face of the most incredible odds they continue to deliver innovative, quality and value-driven menus that support Irish producers and satisfy their customers’ needs.”
About Ireland’s Blue Book:
Ireland's Blue Book is a collection of Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, Castles and Restaurants. Located throughout the island of Ireland these charming and stylish hideaways are the perfect choice for your holiday vacation in Ireland.
Activities vary from golf, fishing, spas and cookery schools or just relaxing in warm and comfortable surroundings.
With a choice of elegant Georgian Manors, Stately Castles, Historic Hotels, cosy Bed and Breakfast accommodation, Luxury Boutique Hotels and Designer Lodges, there is something to suit everyone's tastes and requirements.
Also included in the collection are three of Dublin city's finest Michelin star restaurants.
Ireland's Blue Book is the sole Irish representative association of Europe's leading heritage accommodation provider - Historic Hotels of Europe.