Awards galore for Kilkenny business in national competition

Kilkenny businesses have been in celebration mode after receiving national accolades in recent days.

The Newpark Hotel, Mount Juliet Estate and Cafe La Coco were among the winners at the Gold Medal Hotel Awards. The awards are recognised as Ireland’s leading independent awards programme for the hospitality industry.

The Newpark Hotel was recognised as being one of Ireland’s top destinations for family breaks when named Best Family Friendly Hotel for the third consecutive year.

“To be recognised as Best Family Friendly Hotel for the third year in a row is an incredible honour and a real testament to the dedication of our entire team,” said General Managers Niall Dunne and Mark Flynn.

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“Everything we do at Newpark Hotel is driven by a desire to create meaningful, memorable experiences for our guests. We’re immensely proud of our colleagues and sincerely grateful to the families who continue to choose Newpark Hotel year after year.”

Mount Juliet Estate celebrated a successful night when Executive Chef John Kelly was awarded Ireland’s Five Star Chef of the Year, recognising his creativity, leadership, and continued dedication to excellence in Irish hospitality.

“To have been nominated is an honour, but to win is truly incredible,” he said. “I’m fortunate to have such a fantastic team who are passionate about delivering world class food and exceptional service.”

The Estate also achieved Silver in the Ireland’s Five Star Resort category, highlighting their ongoing commitment to exceptional guest experiences across accommodation, dining, and service. Accepting the awards on the night were Sean Reid, John Kelly, Aaron Logan, Sinead Monahan and Edel Nolan all representing Mount Juliet Estate.

“Each win feels as exciting as the first, and that’s a testament to our incredible team,” said Mark Dunne, General Manager Mount Juliet Estate. “None of this success would be possible without their dedication and passion for what they do.”

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Meanwhile, at the same ceremony, Cafe La Coco took home two national awards.

The Patrick Street coffee shop secured the title of All-Ireland Cafe of the Year and Leinster Sweet Treat of the Year.

“These awards recognise excellence in quality, service, and community spirit, marking a proud moment for our entire team and for Kilkenny,” a spokesperson for the business commented.

That wasn't the end of the glory filled week for Kilkenny business.

Brennan Sister's, a family run takeaway based in Freshford, secured 'Best Kebab of the Year' in Leinster for the second time as well as 'Local Takeaway of the Year' for the province.

"We are delighted to bring home two more awards," the local takeaway posted to social media.

Furthermore, The Wine Centre in Kilkenny City is the latest local business to be toasting to their success.

The John Street outlet was crowned 'Leinster Off-License of The Year' at the National Off Licence Awards on Monday night in a marquee night for all involved.

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