Run by Southern Californian natives Bill and Ann Hiilyard since 2020, The Algiers Inn has actually been a fixture in Baltimore village since 1892 but the food has never been as exciting as it is in the current ownership. Having studied studied food and culture in Mexico, the couple embraced the move to Ireland and Ann is Ballymaloe trained, so you may expect an original Californian / Mexican take on quality gastropub fare based squarely on the best ingredients from valued local producers who are proudly credited. "Fish comes from the trawlers who land fish in Baltimore, 30-day dry-aged, heritage-breed beef is from Walsh’s Victuallers in nearby Skibbereen (who make a bespoke mince for our burgers), pork is from the Allshire family's famed Caherbeg Free Range Pork in Rosscarbery, Roaringwater Bay mussels come from just a few miles away, local eggs are delivered to us by Kathleen the egg lady, and vegetables come seasonally from Dee Gardener and other farmers."
And, while restoration of the historic pub included a full heritage shopfront restoration led by local conservationist Ted O’Driscoll, the decor creates a Moorish atmosphere which not only complements the food perfectly but, as the name suggests, is also in keeping with the history of the village - in 1631 Algerian pirates raided the village, capturing over 100 villagers...So, all round it's hard to imagine a better foundation for their mission to provide a unique experience that is "...locally sourced, globally focused, innovative yet approachable, offering quirky yet authentic food, drink, and entertainment in a lively and storied Irish pub."
And it's all working out just as they had hoped - it's a very popular spot with the locals as well as the many visitors to Baltimore seeking out the uniquely different culinary delights on offer in this one small habourside village. Families are made very welcome (small portions available for children) and menus offer something for everyone, with the Pick and Mix Tacos especially popular - they estimate that an extraordinary 20,000 tacos can come out of their kitchen in a year, with everything homemade, including all their own authentic sauces and salsas made from scratch.
They are also the only craft cocktail bar in West Cork and serve Baltimore-brewed craft beers - and, as well as offering the largest selection of premium and craft tequilas and mezcals in Ireland, they serve non-alcoholic beers and cocktails and also host tequila masterclasses and tastings.
The garden is a popular venue for private parties and during the summer months they run a disco boat party in conjunction with the Cape Clear Ferry. They are always thinking up new ideas for cocktails and menus. In winter months they do a Thursday night special - picana steak night or a sushi night for example. Whether it is for nibbles of tortilla chips with guacamole or hummus or for something larger like West Cork Mac and Cheese, burgers, or their famous tacos together with various sides including spicy Mexican sweet corn, you will find something to suit all palates. An unusual dessert of lemon meringue pie cocktail is a delicious way to end a meal, and many wouldn't leave without their slice of key lime pie. Brunch is also available on Sundays, with a Full Irish Breakfast Burrito or Huevos Rancheros on offer as well as Eggs Benedict and Waffles with Maple Syrup to name but a few.
The service is great too - Bill and Ann have a young, energetic staff who are very attentive whether it is behind the bar mixing cocktails or serving the freshly prepared food to customers. The Algiers has also established itself as a cultural hub, hosting the O’Driscoll Clan Gathering, live music, events such as the Disco Cruise, and quiz nights in support of local groups. And no bookings are required, just walk in to this friendly spot and you can be sure of good food and drink - and plenty of surprises.
