Celebrating Mayo’s food and hospitality heroes

The very best in food and hospitality across Connacht were celebrated at the 2026 Irish Restaurant Awards Connacht Regional Final, held at Knockranny House Hotel in Westport on Tuesday night. The event marked the final regional ceremony in this year’s prestigious awards programme, where county winners from across the province were revealed.

Over 600 guests gathered to celebrate the outstanding achievements of restaurants, cafés and hospitality businesses operating throughout Connacht. The event showcased the quality, resilience and innovation that continue to define the region’s thriving hospitality sector.

Now in its 17th year, the Irish Restaurant Awards attracted over 150,000 public nominations, submitted via The Irish Times, the official media partner.

“Connacht continues to play a vital role in Ireland’s food story, with restaurants and hospitality businesses at the heart of communities across the region,” said Seán Collender, President of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, in his address to attendees.

“Despite ongoing cost pressures, the standard of food, service and innovation on display remains exceptionally high. These awards are a testament to the resilience and dedication of those working across the sector.

“Hospitality is not just about dining, it is about experience, employment and community. The strength of this sector is critical to local economies and to Ireland’s wider tourism offering,” continued Collender.

“Celebrating the excellence in Connacht highlights the importance of supporting these businesses into the future. Congratulations to all of the nominees and winners.” Also speaking following the awards, Mairéad Melody, manager of Mayo North Tourism, said it was “fantastic” in particular to see so many North Mayo businesses recognised on such a significant stage.

“These awards highlight not only the exceptional quality of food and hospitality in our region, but also the passion, creativity and hard work of the people behind it. Our local businesses continue to deliver authentic, memorable experiences for visitors and locals alike, and it’s wonderful to see them celebrated at Connacht level.” 

Ballina and its neighbouring towns proudly brought home a number of prestigious awards on the night, further cementing the region’s reputation as a leading food destination along the Wild Atlantic Way. Among the winners, The Cot & Cobble, located on Clare Street along the banks of the River Moy, celebrated success with Jason Moyles receiving the Employee Excellence Award (Mayo) for his outstanding service and dedication. Daniel’s Restaurant was named Best Newcomer, recognised for its contemporary approach and commitment to locally sourced, high-quality produce.

Poacher Restaurant also enjoyed success, with chef Yvonne Kathrein leading the team to secure the title of Best Contemporary Irish Cuisine, reflecting a strong focus on seasonal and locally inspired dishes. FOXFORD was honoured with the Innovator of the Year award, highlighting its continued ability to blend tradition with creativity, while its café remains a popular destination for freshly prepared food and artisan offerings. Baker51, a modern café and bakery in the heart of Ballina, was awarded Best Café (Mayo), further showcasing the town’s vibrant and evolving food scene.

Regional and All-Ireland winners will be revealed at the All-Ireland Awards Gala Dinner on Monday, May 18 at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road, Dublin.

The awards are said not only to be a celebration of individual excellence but also a reflection of the vibrant and growing food and hospitality scene across Mayo. With such a strong showing at the Connacht Regional Final, the region can now looks ahead with great anticipation to the national stage.

• Best Restaurant (Mayo): An Port Mór Restaurant.

• Best Chef (Mayo): Shteryo Yurukov, Sage Restaurant.

• Best Restaurant Manager (Mayo): John Nevin, Nevin’s Newfield Inn.

• Best Hotel & Guesthouse Restaurant (Mayo): The Lodge at Ashford Castle.

• Employee Excellence (Mayo): Jason Moyles, The Cot & Cobble.

• Best Use of Social Media (Mayo): Infused Cocktail & Wine Bar.

• Best Casual Dining (Mayo): Friends Bistro.

• Best World Cuisine (Mayo): La Casa.

• Best Gastro Pub (Mayo): JJ O’Malley’s.

• Best Contemporary Irish Cuisine (Mayo): Poacher Restaurant.

• Best Newcomer (Mayo): Daniel’s Kitchen & Bar.

• Pub of the Year (Mayo): McDonnell’s Bar & Undertakers.

• Best Wine Experience (Mayo): George V Dining Room at Ashford Castle.

• Best Customer Service (Mayo): Arno’s Bistrot.

• Best Café (Mayo): Baker 51.

• Best Sustainable Practices (Mayo): The Creel, Castlebar.

• Innovator of the Year (Mayo): Foxford Café.

• Local Food Hero (Mayo): Cillian Ó Móráin and Bart Adons, Mescan Brewery.