Landmark Longford pub 'over the moon' as it celebrates Leinster and All-Ireland success

A landmark Longford pub is celebrating after it was chosen as the Pub of the Year at the All-Ireland final of Irish Restaurant Awards 2024 in the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road on Monday.

In addition to winning the Leinster Pub of the Year accolade, the iconic Begley's Bar, Killoe was also named as All Ireland Pub of the Year, with category being sponsored by Mad March Hare Poitín. 

Almost 1,200 of the Irish hospitality industry’s owners, chefs, managers and staff attended Monday's gala ceremony to crown the best establishments from across the country.

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Niamh Begley and Paddy Lee were 'over the moon' with their All-Ireland triumph and they have been inundated with congratulatory messages.

Pub of the Year – Sponsored by Mad March Hare Poitín

Leinster: Begleys Bar

Ulster: The Garrick

Munster: Levis Corner House

Connaught: Freeney’s Bar

Dublin: Anseo

All Ireland: Begleys Bar

In total, this year’s Irish Restaurant Awards – the 15th year of the Awards – received over 160,000 public nominations for restaurants, cafés and other food services establishments across the country – the highest number yet.

Nominations were made by the public through The Irish Times website, the Irish Restaurant Awards’ media partner.

Speaking at the event, President of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, Paul Lenehan, said, “During these undoubtedly tough times for our industry, celebrating Ireland’s food and hospitality offering is as crucial as ever. Above all, the Awards give us the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the hard work of Ireland’s talented restaurant, café and food-led hospitality staff.

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“These Awards highlight the resilience and innovation in our food industry. Behind every great dish is a team of individuals committed to creating memorable dining experiences.

“As ever, this year’s Irish Restaurant Awards showcased the very best of the region’s culinary talent. I would personally like to extend my congratulations to all the winners and nominees for their dedication and passion.”

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Each year, funds are raised for a chosen charity at the All-Ireland final of the Irish Restaurant Awards. This year, substantial funds were raised for the Irish Kidney Association.

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