Denis Cotter on leaving Paradiso after 32 years and the protégé taking his place

This summer Denis Cotter is handing over the reins at Cafe Paradiso to Dave O’Mahony, a man who began his career at the iconic restaurant as a teenager washing dishes.

Dave O’Mahony and Denis Cotter of Paradiso on Lancaster Quay, Cork. Picture: David Creedon

The average life span of a restaurant is just three years, about as long as it takes to determine whether a fledgling hospitality business has a viable financial future. Many fail long before the three-year mark. In October this year, Paradiso, one of the world’s most renowned vegetarian restaurants, celebrates its 32nd birthday, its longevity but one testament to the Cork restaurant’s unique qualities.

Paradiso joins a rarified club in passing the three-decade mark but all good things come to an end. Restaurant work is amongst the most demanding of all professions and there is a finite life to a career in the kitchen.