Cork prisoners' pop-up restaurant proves a slammer-dunk for its guests 

Six inmates have completed Cork Prison's new practical culinary skills programme

An MTU student sets up tables for The Open Door event in Cork Prison. Picture: Darragh Kane

The clink of keys and cell doors was replaced with the clink of cutlery and glasses in Cork Prison for a time on Tuesday night as it became the first Irish prison to host a pop-up restaurant.

Six inmates who have completed its new practical culinary skills programme cooked a slap-up four-course meal for 56 specially invited guests, including 22 hoteliers and restaurateurs, who were seated in the prison’s education unit and on B3 landing as part of the unique 'The Open Door' event.