Longford’s Viewmount House scoops top restaurant award

The highly acclaimed VM Restaurant at Viewmount House in Longford town has been named ‘Restaurant of the Year’ for 2014 at the Georgina Campbell Awards in Dublin this week.

Recognised as one of the country’s most prestigious awards for the hospitality sector, the Georgina Campbell Awards seek to honour the best in the business and applaud those who go the extra mile in hospitality and customer service.

The judging panel is chaired by Georgina Campbell, one of Ireland’s leading food writers. Speaking about her judging panel, she said they “have maintained our programme of anonymous assessment visits throughout the season as usual, always keeping a sharp eye out for those exceptional establishments which are right at the top of their game and going the extra mile for customers.”

VM Restaurant received a glowing citation at the awards ceremony: “Suppliers are credited with pride and the cooking is outstanding, with all the little niceties observed - yet the best thing about this elegant and atmospheric restaurant is that it’s in no way intimidating. Classically linen-clad tables, professionalism and smart service are tempered by warmth and friendliness, so the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, and everything - the menus, cooking style, presentation, portion sizes, pricing - is perfectly judged to please local diners just as much as those who have made it a destination. The teamwork is exemplary and any visit to this delightful restaurant is sure to be a memorable experience.”

The Georgina Campbell Restaurant of the Year Award is the latest in a series of accolades bestowed on VM Restaurant, which is owned by James and Beryl Kearney. The restaurant’s head chef, Gary O’Hanlon has also received a number of personal awards.