Corinna Hardgrave

3 weeks ago | irishtimes.com | Corinna Hardgrave

Opened in June 2022, Bean & Batch is one of Kenmare’s loveliest cafes. Owned by Jamie O’Connell and his husband John Hallissey, a Kenmare native, it has a bit of a new England vibe, low-slung with a corrugated roof and a generous outdoor set-up: a veranda, picnic tables, and covered seating. The day begins at 3.30am in their bakery, with fresh scones, croissants, morning pastries, cakes, and John’s mother’s famous apple tart rolling out of the ovens.

3 weeks ago | irishtimes.com | Corinna Hardgrave

Opened in June 2022, Bean & Batch is one of Kenmare’s loveliest cafes. Owned by Jamie O’Connell and his husband John Hallissey, a Kenmare native, it has a bit of a new England vibe, low-slung with a corrugated roof and a generous outdoor set-up: a veranda, picnic tables, and covered seating. The day begins at 3.30am in their bakery, with fresh scones, croissants, morning pastries, cakes, and John’s mother’s famous apple tart rolling out of the ovens.

3 weeks ago | irishtimes.com | Corinna Hardgrave

Walk into The Brooklyn and the vibe hits immediately – all thump, gloss and security detail. Three suited bouncers check bookings – because nothing says “gastro bar” like nightclub security at 6.15pm on a Friday evening. This is the latest dinner booking we can get at the new 160-seater in Swords, Co Dublin, and the place is already operating at full volume.

3 weeks ago | irishtimes.com | Corinna Hardgrave

• Five years ago Eunice Power opened her upmarket chipper in Dungarvan, setting a new benchmark for fish and chips by the sea. While the menu offers classic fish suppers, fish burgers and even fish tacos, there’s also chicken and beef burgers, plus a fish spice box for those feeling adventurous. The real standout? Eunice’s commitment to local produce, sourcing from a range of fishing boats in Cork and Waterford whenever possible.

3 weeks ago | irishtimes.com | Corinna Hardgrave

We all know the galleries to visit in Florence, but what about where to eat? The first thing you need to do in Florence – before galleries, churches or even coffee – is go to Mercato Centrale. Yes, it’s full of tourists. Go anyway. This is where Florentines shop and where chefs buy their fish and Chianina beef for bistecca Fiorentina. Designed by Giuseppe Mengoni in 1874, the cast-iron hall houses more than 100 stalls – 70 per cent still run by families, some still calling themselves peasants.