2015 Award Winners CAFé OF THE YEAR 2015

Garden Tea Room, Perryville House, Kinsale, Co Cork

This award gives recognition to the best of those valuable all-day operations – usually small and owner-run – which not only lift the visitor’s spirits in a flash, but also the reputation of any town or village lucky enough to be its chosen location. The Guide seeks out good simple cooking based on quality ingredients - and especially the home baking that can be the highlight of a day out.

As pretty as a picture, this charming café reflects the style and quality that sums up the Corcoran family’s Perryville House. Opening onto a little courtyard garden - where there is a fountain, some beautiful white birch trees, and outdoor seating for fine weather - it's a delightful old world tea room where nothing but the best will do.

A far cry from the quirky little places that have popped up all over he country, this is an elegantly furnished space where fine china, crisp linen and - as elsewhere in the house - beautiful fresh garden flowers set an adult tone of quiet relaxation.

Great home baking and quality beverages are the USPs, of course, but delicious lunches are also served, along with morning coffee and traditional afternoon tea. A restful oasis away from the bustle of this busy town, lunch or afternoon tea at the Garden Tea Room has become a regular treat for many visitors to Kinsale.

The Gift Shop has developed a lot since it first opened and now has a wider selection of quality gifts and a deli section offering an interesting range of Irish artisan foods - including some locally made speciality products that are not found outside the area.

A charming spot and a great asset to this food loving town.