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19 Sept 2025
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19 Sept 2025
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"The Devil’s Menu lets me celebrate Irish food in a playful, modern way and show what it can be." - John Whelan (pictured)
The Devil’s Menu, the chef’s table run from the home kitchen of John Whelan in Graignamanagh, County Kilkenny, has been named 'Best Restaurant in Ireland 2025' in the Square Best of Ireland awards.
Unlike a conventional restaurant, The Devil’s Menu brings guests right into Whelan’s own space.
Diners sit around his kitchen island while he cooks, talks through the dishes, and serves each course straight from the stove.
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The evenings mix cookery demonstration, storytelling, and a dinner-party atmosphere.
“The best nights always ended in the kitchen,” said Whelan. “That’s why The Devil’s Menu works. It’s food and theatre, but it’s also about joy, conversation, and making memories. I live in this kitchen and I love sharing it.”
The award, created by Square Ireland with food writer and influencer Sarah Hanrahan, recognised The Devil’s Menu for its originality and community connection.
After a nationwide vote, it was crowned national winner and received a €1,000 prize along with promotional support across Square’s channels.
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Whelan, who grew up in London with Irish family roots, says the award reflects a journey back to his heritage.
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“I grew up on bacon and cabbage most nights. I hated it then, but I see it differently now. The Devil’s Menu lets me celebrate Irish food in a playful, modern way and show what it can be.”
Alongside The Devil’s Menu, Whelan represents Siemens StudioLine, Cosentino Dekton, and Smoking Soul BBQ Equipment as a brand ambassador.
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