Irish restaurateurs serve up top award to capital eatery

IRISH restaurateurs yesterday named Dublin’s Chapter One as the country’s top restaurant.

The Restaurants Association of Ireland (CRRCT) judges also named Eamonn O’Reilly, of Dublin’s One Pico Restaurant, as Ireland’s best chef.

Judges in the Jacobs Creek-sponsored contest praised Chapter One for the quality of its food and the standards it has maintained during the 15 years it has been open.

O’Reilly was praised for his top-notch culinary prowess as well as his skills in running the kitchen at One Pico.

The awards were handed out after restaurant owners and food experts voted for their favourites in six categories.

Ray Byrne, from the Restaurants Association of Ireland, said: “Chapter One opened in Dublin’s north inner-city 15 years ago when it was unfashionable to do so, although the area is now a popular place.

“But in all that time Chapter One’s standards have never wavered and that’s something that impressed the judges.”

Of the chef-of-the year, Mr Byrne said: “Eamonn is very low-key but in terms of a working chef the judges were really impressed.

“He is hands-on, good at motivating people and has never wanted to be anything other than a chef. He has a reputation for quality food.”

The awards were yesterday afternoon handed out by TV3 television host Síle Seoige at the Westin Hotel.

Other winners included the Park Hotel in Kenmare, Co Kerry, for its service, and Dublin 2’s Bewley’s Cafe for its fish.

Kilkenny’s Zuni Restaurant won a gong for its chic style while O’Briens Good Food and Drink in Navan, Co Meath, was adjudged the best newcomer of the year.