The culinary landscape of Connacht was celebrated this week as the regional winners of the 2026 Irish Restaurant Awards were announced. The awards, now in their 17th year, recognize the dedication and innovation within Ireland’s vibrant hospitality sector. Over 600 industry professionals and enthusiasts gathered at the Knockranny House Hotel on Tuesday, March 31st, to honor establishments across Galway, Leitrim, Roscommon, Mayo, and Sligo. The awards process began with a remarkable outpouring of public support, attracting more than 150,000 nominations submitted through The Irish Times, demonstrating the deep connection between diners and their local restaurants.
This year’s awards highlight not only exceptional dining experiences but also the evolving trends within the Irish food scene, from a renewed focus on sustainable practices to the rise of innovative newcomers. The Connacht winners represent a diverse range of culinary styles and dining atmospheres, showcasing the region’s rich agricultural heritage and commitment to quality ingredients. The success of these businesses is particularly noteworthy given the ongoing challenges faced by the hospitality industry, including rising costs and staffing shortages. The awards serve as a testament to the resilience and creativity of those working within it.
Celebrating Culinary Excellence Across Connacht
Lignum in Galway took home the coveted “Best Restaurant” award for the county, recognized for its commitment to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and refined dining experience. In Leitrim, The Cottage Restaurant earned the same honor, while The Old Stone House Restaurant in Roscommon, Eala Bhán in Sligo, and An Port Mór Restaurant in Mayo were similarly celebrated as the best restaurants in their respective counties. These establishments consistently receive positive reviews and are known for their dedication to providing memorable dining experiences.
The awards also spotlighted the talent driving these kitchens. Angelo Vagiotis of The Pullman Restaurant at Glenlo Abbey in Galway was named “Best Chef,” lauded for his innovative approach to modern Irish cuisine. Mario Raise of The Courthouse in Leitrim, Sinead Toolan of My Kitchen By Sham Hanifa in Roscommon, Dave Mullan of Fish & Bean in Sligo, and Shteryo Yurukov of Sage Restaurant in Mayo also received the prestigious chef accolades. These individuals are shaping the future of Irish gastronomy with their skill and passion.
Beyond the Plate: Recognizing Hospitality Leaders
Exceptional service is often the hallmark of a truly great dining experience, and the Irish Restaurant Awards acknowledged those leading the charge in hospitality. Mathieu Teulier of Blackrock Cottage in Galway, Lorraine McHugh of The Selkie in Leitrim, Navrish Audit of Keenan’s Hotel Bar & Restaurant in Roscommon, Angela Davis of Davis’ Restaurant & Yeats Tavern in Sligo, and John Nevin of Nevin’s Newfield Inn in Mayo were all recognized as “Best Restaurant Managers.” Their leadership and dedication to creating welcoming and efficient environments were key factors in their success.
The awards also acknowledged the importance of embracing modern marketing strategies. The Dough Bros in Galway were celebrated for their “Best Use of Social Media,” demonstrating how effectively they engage with their audience online. White Wombat Coffee in Leitrim, Maki Sushi in Roscommon, Otto in Sligo, and Infused Cocktail & Wine Bar in Mayo also received recognition for their innovative social media presence.
Looking Ahead to the All-Ireland Awards
The Connacht county winners will now advance to the All-Ireland Awards Gala Dinner, scheduled for Monday, May 18th, at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road, Dublin. This national event will bring together the best restaurants and hospitality businesses from across the country to compete for the ultimate accolades. Tickets for the All-Ireland ceremony are now available to the Connacht winners, offering them a chance to showcase their achievements on a national stage. The event promises to be a celebration of Irish culinary talent and a key moment for the industry as it continues to evolve and innovate.
Beyond the headline awards, recognition was also given to establishments excelling in specific niches. Kilronan Castle in Roscommon and Markree Castle in Sligo were both honored for their exceptional hotel and guesthouse restaurants, while Kai in Galway and Honestly Farm Kitchen in Leitrim were lauded for their commitment to sustainable practices. The awards also highlighted the importance of employee recognition, with Rafael Jesus of Chef Laura Rosso Restaurant in Galway and Catherine Rooney of The Red Bank Restaurant in Leitrim among those receiving “Employee Excellence” awards.
The Irish Restaurant Awards continue to play a vital role in supporting and promoting the country’s thriving hospitality sector. The upcoming All-Ireland Awards Gala Dinner will provide a further platform to celebrate the achievements of these businesses and inspire continued innovation within the industry. For more information about the Irish Restaurant Awards and the All-Ireland event, visit the official website at https://www.irishrestaurantawards.com/.
The success of these Connacht establishments underscores the region’s growing reputation as a culinary destination. As the industry looks ahead, a continued focus on quality, sustainability, and exceptional customer service will be crucial for maintaining this momentum. The All-Ireland Awards in May will undoubtedly provide further insights into the evolving trends shaping the future of Irish dining.
