The remarkable success story of Blackrock Cottage continued last week when the Salthill eatery was named Best Restaurant in Galway at the Restaurant of Ireland awards.
The popular dining venue, which is located beside the iconic Blackrock Diving Tower at the end of the Promenade, beat off competition from a host of well-known Galway restaurants to win the top prize at the Connacht finals of the prestigious awards ceremony.
“We were absolutely delighted, it was a big shock,” admitted Blackrock Cottage’s head chef, Martin O’Donnell.
“We were nominated for six other categories as well, and the Best Restaurant award is usually one that goes to a Michelin Guide restaurant or one of the big hitters.
“So it was a lovely surprise for all of us, we were thrilled.
“This award is for everyone in Blackrock Cottage’s team,” he added.
“There’s no secret to the success, it’s hard work, dedication, and an unbelievable team with one goal — to exceed customer expectations in terms of what they want when it comes to food and service.
“Our general manager, Mathieu Teulier, does a terrific job with his team and, as a chef, my main focus is on the food and getting the menus right.
“We try to create something that people actually want to eat, not what we think they want to eat. We’re just trying to create great food and a lovely ambience in the restaurant.
“That casual feel, that homely feel of a cottage restaurant, with the food speaking for itself.”
Blackrock Cottage has been winning rave reviews for its range of breakfast, brunch, lunch and evening dinner options. It also has an extensive wine list while cocktails and craft beers are also available, along with a range of non-alcoholic options.
The Cottage won Best Newcomer in Ireland at last year’s Restaurant of Ireland Awards, while Martin O’Donnell has also captured some individual awards in the last 12 months.
Martin believes that there are a few reasons why food critics and the public have been impressed by what Blackrock Cottage has to offer.
“We are the new kids on the block, we are one of the busier restaurants, but we’re also creating some food dishes that are creating a buzz around Galway.
“The feedback has been tremendous, and I think that definitely contributes to the judges’ awareness. Then once they came and tried the menu, they obviously left impressed, which we’re absolutely delighted about.
“This award puts us into that group of restaurants around town that are at the top of their game.”
Blackrock Cottage is open from 8am each morning, and serves dinner on Thursday to Saturday from 6pm. It also opens until 8pm each Sunday. Call 091 399280 for bookings.
