Waterford celebrates big wins at Munster Restaurant Awards

The Irish Restaurant Awards Munster Regional Final took place last week, celebrating the contributions of the food and hospitality industry across the province.

The awards ceremony was in Cork, where all the Waterford county winners were announced.

Over 700 people were in attendance.

Speaking at the ceremony, Seán Collender, President of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, said: "Tonight, we gather to honour the dedication and determination of those who keep Munster’s hospitality industry going, even in the most challenging times. 

"The past year has tested the resilience of our sector, making it more important than ever to recognise the passion, creativity and sheer hard work that drive it forward."

County Winners 

From Waterford in the Best Restaurant Category, Everett’s in Waterford city took home the top prize.

The Best Chef award went to Luis Martin of Mara, O'Connell Street in Waterford, whilst Alan O’Shea of 360 Cookhouse, Dungarvan, won Best Restaurant Manager.

Best Hotel and Guesthouse Restaurant went to The Roseville Rooms at Faithlegg House Hotel.

GROW HQ won the Best Use of Social Media award.

The Employee Excellence Award was taken home by Geraldine Ward of Everett’s.

Momo in Waterford city won Best Casual Dining, whilst Best Gastro Pub went to The Moorings in Dungarvan.

Best Café was won by Tramore's Seagull Bakery, Best Contemporary Irish Cuisine was won by Eamo & Ró, Kilmacthomas, and Best Newcomer was won by Zuca Brew, Tramore.

Tully’s Bar in Waterford City, took the Pub of the Year award, and Best Wine Experience went to UNioN Bar & Kitchen, Waterford City.

Slow and Steady Café, Tramore, was awarded for Best Customer Service.

Best World Cuisine award was handed to Mezze in Tramore.

GROW HQ were awarded under the Best Sustainable Practices category and Innovator of the Year went to Dún Artisan Bakery, Dungarvan.

The Local Food Hero award was given to Sarah Richards from Seagull Bakery.