Licensing World - Bar Awards 2012
THE 2012 AWARDS WILL BE LAUNCHED IN OUR FEBRUARY 2012 ISSUE OF LICENSING WORLD MAGAZINE
Booterstown Dublin ‘Local’ Wins 2011 National Pub Title
Gleesons of Booterstown, Co Dublin, was named Ireland’s best pub at the National Licensing World Bar Awards in Dublin last night.
Photo Caption: Gleesons of Booterstown named Ireland’s best pub: Award winning brothers (l-r) John and Ciaran Gleeson, owners of Gleesons of Booterstown, Co Dublin, with their wives Patricia and Gillian Gleeson. Gleesons of Booterstown was named Licensing World Bar of the Year 2011 and also took home the Guinness Local Bar Award at a gala awards ceremony in Dublin.
Situated just 15 minutes from Dublin city centre, Gleesons of Booterstown was named ‘Licensing World Bar of the Year 2011’ after also claiming the ‘Guinness Local Bar Award’ earlier in the night.
A landmark bar in South Dublin, Gleesons was chosen from hundreds of entries to claim the top accolade at the sixth Licensing World Bar Awards, a gala annual banquet held in The Four Seasons Hotel, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4.
Over 300 members of the Irish pub and licensed trade attended the black tie event that culminated in publicans John Gleeson, and business partner Ciaran Gleeson, accepting the ‘Licensing World Bar of the Year 2011’ trophy from Nigel Tynan, Editor of Licensing World magazine, and chairman of the Bar Awards.
Gleesons of Booterstown is a family-run premises operated by brothers John and Ciaran Gleeson. A highly popular local, the bar was established in 1954 by their father, Frank Gleeson.
When presenting the Bar of the Year Award, Nigel Tynan, pointed out, ‘Gleesons’ is an exceptionally well-run premises with deep roots in its community. The bar trade is under intense economic pressure and only the best bars will survive. John and Ciaran have invested in the future of their business, they have demonstrated their ability to re-invent their premises yet remain grounded in their local community and focused on their customers.’
He listed recent additions to the premises, including a vibrant new deli business, the Food Corner –offering Gleesons’ own cooked food to take away – and a comfortable café style redesign, complete with a stylish pool room.
‘Success in the bar trade centres around finding new ways to appeal to customers. It is a challenge that all publicans face – Gleesons of Booterstown is a worthy winner of the 2011 title because here we have a great local bar and is continuously seeking to improve both its product offering and customer experience.’
The Licensing World Bar Awards announced a total of 12 category winners (details below).
BAR AWARDS
Gleesons of Booterstown, Co Dublin, scored a double victory as it was named the country’s best ‘local’ earlier in the evening when it won the Guinness Local Bar Award.
John Gleeson accepted the Guinness Local Bar Award from Ciaran Budds, national sales manager, on trade, Diageo Ireland.
A GREAT NIGHT FOR DUBLIN PUBS
Dublin pubs claimed 8 awards at the Licensing World Bar Awards:
Café en Seine – one of the iconic names of the Dublin bar scene – was named as Ireland’s number one city bar when it claimed the Bulmers Original Irish Cider City Bar Award.
Café en Seine was highlighted for ‘triumphantly re-imagining itself in line with modern consumer expectations’. The bar is currently under the stewardship of Ray Byrne, owner of Wineport Lodge and operator of The Ice House, in Ballina, Co Mayo. (Award presentation photography available)
Harry’s on the Green, St King’s Street, Dublin 2, was named Ireland’s leading cocktail destination when it claimed the Edward Dillon Cocktail Bar Award.
Under the stewardship of general manager Gareth Lambe, Harry’s on the Green was highlighted for its imaginative use of premium ingredients and its commitment to in-house training and excellent customer service – making it a must visit cocktail destination. (Award presentation photography available)
The Wright Venue, Airside Retail Park, Swords, Co Dublin was named Ireland’s best nightclub for a second year running when it won the Smirnoff Nightclub Award. (Award presentation photography available)
The highly sought after Edward Dillon Style Bar Award was presented to Lost Society, Powerscourt Townshouse, Dublin 2. Modeled to highlight the 18th Century luxury of its surroundings, Lost Society was named a ‘richly tailored customer focused five-star experience’. (Award presentation photography available)
The Merry Ploughboy, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16, was named a worthy winner of the Deep RiverRock Music Bar Award. The Merry Ploughboy is a traditional pub that is owned and operated by a troupe of musicians. Live music is central and the bar hosts a nightly music and dance show has been running for 22 years.
The Mint Bar at The Westin, Dublin 2, also made it two-in-a-row when it was named the country’s leading hotel bar, after winning the hotly contested Deep RiverRock Hotel Bar Award.
Finally for the Capital, Port House Ibericos, in Dundrum, Dublin 14, took home the Edward Dillon Wine Award.
WINNERS OUTSIDE DUBLIN
Wonderful food in convivial surroundings was central to The Fatted Calf, Glasson, Co Westmeath, winning the Fáilte Ireland Bar Food Award.
Run by Feargal O’Donnell and his wife Fiona, The Fatted Calf, uses locally sourced, seasonal, ingredients in all dishes and offers a combination of gastro-pub fare, an Irish themed tapas bar menu, and contemporary fine-dining in a family friendly atmosphere.
LIMERICK WINS DOUBLE
The prize for Ireland’s number one tourist bar went to Limerick City when the Locke Bar & Oyster House was named winner of the Fáilte Ireland Tourist Bar Award. Situated on the site of one of the country’s oldest pubs, dating back to 1724, this traditional Irish bar is near some of Limerick’s most historical sites, including St Mary’s Cathedral, King John’s Castle and The Hunt Museum.
Finally, Bill Chawke’s Bar in Adare, Co Limerick, part of the Charlie Chawke Pub Group, was named Ireland’s best country pub after scooping the Bulmers Original Irish Cider Country Bar Award.
INDUSTRY FIRST: BAR MANAGER OF THE YEAR
Karl Byrne of The Mint Bar at The Westin, Dublin 2, was named inaugural winner of the Licensing World Bar Manager of the Year Award.
When presenting the award, Andrew O’Gorman, president of the Bartenders Association of Ireland and member of the Bar Awards judging panel, said: ‘This is an exciting addition to the Bar Awards, it is the first time an industry award has been presented that recognises the hugely important role bar managers play in the success of the bar trade and in the greater hospitality sector. Karl Byrne has demonstrated his ability as a great manager of both his bar and his staff and he is passionate about this industry.’
The Licensing World Bar Manager of the Year judging process involves premises visits and a one-on-one interview process whereby all participants are interviewed extensively and asked to demonstrate their managerial approach, how they have improved business efficiency within the last 12 months and to detail how they are responding to changing marketing requirements.
ABOUT LICENSING WORLD BAR AWARDS
All premises that enter the Licensing World Bar Awards are visited by an expert panel of judges. Visits take place during April and May. Each entry is assessed on a lengthy series of relevant criteria including welcome, customer service, ambience, staff training, hygiene, décor, product range and customer appeal.
Quote:
‘The Licensing World Bar Awards are an all-Ireland awards programme dedicated to highlighting and rewarding excellence within the licensed trade. Winning a Bar Award informs customers that your premises rates amongst the best bars in the country and communicates that, as a publican, you are dedicated to service, staff training, ambience, the best in food and drink and provide an excellent customer focused destination,’ explained Nigel Tynan, editor of Licensing World and the Bar Awards chairman.
-ENDS-
For further information and photography from the Awards please contact:
Nigel Tynan
Licensing World
T: 01 214 7920
M: 086 226 7736
E: n.tynan@jemma.ie
Licensing World Bar Awards 2011 – Category Winners & Press Release Download
(Press Shots with Captions: available from Nicola Hickey, Event Manager 01 214 7930.)
GUINNESS LOCAL BAR AWARD
Gleesons of Booterstown, Blackrock, Co Dublin
Download Local Bar Winner Press Release
EDWARD DILLON STYLE BAR AWARD
Lost Society, Powerscourt Townhouse, Dublin 2
Download Style Bar Award Winner Press Release
EDWARD DILLON WINE AWARD
The Port House Ibericos, Dundrum, Dublin 14
Download Wine Award Winner Press Release
DEEP RIVERROCK HOTEL BAR AWARD
The Mint Bar, Westin Hotel, Westmoreland St, Dublin 2
Download Hotel Bar Award Winner Press Release
SMIRNOFF NIGHTCLUB AWARD
Wrights Venue, Airside Business Park, Swords, Co Dublin
Download Nightclub Award Winner Press Release
EDWARD DILLON COCKTAIL BAR AWARD
Harry’s on the Green, St King Street, Dublin 2
Download Cocktail Bar Award Winner Press Release
BULMERS ORIGINAL IRISH CIDER CITY BAR AWARD
Café en Seine, Dublin 2
Download City Bar Award Winner Press Release
DEEP RIVERROCK MUSIC BAR AWARD
The Merry Ploughboy, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16
Download Music Bar Award Winner Press Release
BULMERS ORIGINAL IRISH CIDER COUNTRY BAR AWARD
Bill Chawke’s Bar, Adare, Co Limerick
Download Country Bar Award Winner Press Release
FÁILTE IRELAND BAR FOOD AWARD
The Fatted Calf, Glasson, Co Westmeath
Download Bar Food Award Winner Press Release
FÁILTE IRELAND TOURIST BAR AWARD
Locke Bar & Oyster House, Georges Quay, Limerick
Download Touist Bar Award Winner Press Release
LICENSING WORLD BAR MANAGER OF THE YEAR
Karl Byrne, The Mint Bar, The Westin, Dublin 2
Download Bar Manager of The Year Press Release
LICENSING WORLD BAR OF THE YEAR 2011
Gleesons of Booterstown, Blackrock, Co Dublin
Download Overall Winner Press Release Here
(Overall winning bar is chosen from all category winners.)
Licensing World Bar Awards - Summary of Categories
LOCAL BAR AWARD: Bars entering the ‘local’ category should be focused on catering primarily to a local community, either rural or urban. The quality of the ‘pint’ is viewed as important and the bar needs to offer an informal atmosphere which caters to all age groups.
STYLE BAR AWARD: Offering a consistent and unique image throughout, Style Bar entrants will be judged on the premises décor, superior level of customer service and their drinks’ range, including premium, super premium and niche brands. A Style Bar should be seen to excel in all areas: skills in mixology, wines, customer management are vital and a strong selection of premium alcohols and accompanying printed lists are expected.
HOTEL BAR AWARD: The bar must be an integral part of the hotel and accessible to both residents and non-residents. Staff should be trained in all elements of customer service and drinks and food on offer should reflect the classification of the hotel. Please Note: Hotel bars are restricted to this category only and will not be judged in alternative award categories.
NIGHTCLUB AWARD: Catering to the late night clubbing scene, the décor will be considered as will music facilities/ technologies. A selection of premium brands and cocktails is expected, a high level of service is essential, atmosphere and safety is highly important.
COCKTAIL BAR: This category seeks to highlight the innovative approach to cocktail creation adopted by Ireland’s leading bars. Regardless of size or volume, participating bars need to demonstrate a skilled approach to cocktail creation, mixology talent and use of fresh ingredients.
MUSIC BAR AWARD: Music needs to be the principal attraction of the premises, regardless of what music genre/age group the bar is catering to. The venue should offer good sound capabilities and a dancing area/stage where applicable.
CITY BAR AWARD: This award provides proper recognition of the significant number of city-based bars who provide a unique and varied product to both local and international customers. A City Bar is defined as any premises that is situated in one of Ireland’s listed cities: Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford or Kilkenny. All bars located in these cities, regardless of size, qualify for this competitive category.
TOURIST BAR AWARD: Tourist Bars are deemed to offer a specific ‘tourism orientated’ hospitality offering, regardless of whether that is Irish dancing or the promotion of a bar’s unique Irish heritage. Food or live music is not a necessity; however it is important that entrants tailor their product offering to both national and international customers.
BAR FOOD AWARD: Hot food should be a primary offering whether it’s homely basic or more advanced cuisine, both are equally applicable. Service is all-important and the use of local produce can highlight your bar as a serious gastro-pub, however this is not essential as the quality of the food on offer will have the final say.
Don't forget to submit your menu!
WINE AWARD: Your premises should stock a range of wines representative of the principal European and New World wine producing regions. Wines should be promoted through various marketing initiatives and staff should have a capable knowledge of wine and how it is served. A wine list is a must - you may submit a copy of this to support your entry.
COUNTRY BAR AWARD: This category recognises and highlights the binding role Country Bars play in rural communities throughout Ireland. Through this award we are offering rural premises the opportunity to emphasise the integral role they play in their local communities as a unique and vital social outlet. The Country Bar Award is open to all bars outside of major population centres and the ideal finalists will have strong ties to their local community and will be active in their approach to local business.
BAR OF THE YEAR: All category winners are automatically entered into the ‘Bar of the Year’ category, as sponsored by Licensing World. This is the top award and is decided at the discretion of the panel of judges. The Licensing World Bar of the Year Award 2011 will be presented to the premises which is judged to have been ‘outstanding’ in its awards category.
* * NEW CATEGORY FOR 2011 - BAR MANAGER OF THE YEAR * *
Success within the on trade is driven by innovative people with strong management skills and dedication to their chosen industry. The Bar Manager of the Year Award is an exciting new category and the first award in Ireland devoted to recognizing and rewarding the hugely significant role Bar Managers play in every successful licensed outlet.
Within this category we are looking to be impressed by examples of managerial skills, knowledge of the on trade, customer approach, professionalism and expertise at all times. The Bar Manager of the Year category is open to full-time Bar Managers and General Managers, nominations are accepted from publicans/owners or managers can opt to nominate
themselves. The judging process requires completion of the Bar Awards Entry Form plus the attachment of additional details that cover the following four headings:
Employment – provide employment details, relevant dates, contacts etc
Management – explain your approach to management covering staff and overall business efficiency/improvement (illustrate with examples).
Innovation – provide details of how you have innovated within the last 12 months and how you have responded to changing market requirements.
Career – explain why you would like to be recognised as Bar Manager of the Year?
Please include references from two previous employers. Entries will be shortlisted and chosen finalists must be available to attend a 30 minute interview session in Dublin on 17 May.
Please email Bar Manager of the Year entries to Nicola Hickey
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - THE BAR AWARDS ENTRY PROCESS(FAQ'S)
Am I eligible?
All licensed premises on the island of Ireland may enter the Bar Awards – each entrant will be visited at least once by a member of the Bar Awards judging panel.
How do I enter?
Simply fill out the attached entry form, send it back to us and we’ll do the rest. Alternatively visit our website – www.licensingworld.ie – and follow the Bar Awards link. If your bar is chosen as a finalist you will be contacted by Licensing World in ample time to book your place at the gala awards night at the Four Seasons Hotel, Dublin.
Why are these Awards important?
Now entering its fifth year, the Licensing World Bar Awards are dedicated to raising the profile of the licensed trade and reminding consumers of the excellent service and quality that exists within the licensed trade today. Each year the awards receive considerable national media coverage and in many cases we have received evidence of winning bars experiencing a major turnover boost.
As a finalist what do I get?
All finalists are invited to attend a gala banquet at the Four Seasons Hotel in Dublin and are provided with a specially created certificate to commemorate the occasion. This framed certificate can be displayed in your bar, acknowledging your status among Ireland’s leading licensed premises.
And if I win?
Each category winner is presented on stage with a specially commissioned trophy. Press releases and images are provided for your convenience and we at Licensing World will assist in highlighting your bar’s premier position among Ireland’s elite licensed premises.
Who are the judges?
We have compiled an expert panel of judges who are themselves former industry people, training and service experts and food and tourism representatives. Professionalism in the judging process is our utmost concern and every premises that enters the awards will be visited on at least one occasion. The judge’s decision and experiences are confidential and no correspondence will be entered into.
How do I book my place?
A detailed list of all finalists will be published in the May issue of Licensing World. Category winners will only be announced at the actual Bar Awards ceremony, scheduled to take place on 21 June at the Four Seasons Hotel, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4. For information on how to book your place at the Bar Awards ceremony, you can contact our events team on 01 214 7930. Places are limited however so do book early.
What's the Judging Criteria
In assessing each entry the judges will have regard to the following criteria:
1. Welcome
2. Customer Service
3. Ambience
4. Staff Training
5. Hygiene
6. Product Knowledge
7. Food Offering (where applicable)
8. Safety/Security
9. Décor
10. Product/Wine Range
11. Entertainment/Music Facilities
12. Outdoor/Smoking Facilities
How to Impress The Judges:
• A friendly greeting goes a long way
• In a service industry, service is everything
• Product understanding is always important
• Professional staff should dress accordingly
• Menus, food or drink can be attractive sales tools
• Hygienic toilets are always a consideration
• Fresh ingredients make great cocktails
• Safety and security are issues that matter.
Where do I send my supporting information?
If you have any menus, wine lists of other relevant supporting document please send these by email to our Events Manager Nicola Hickey who will include them in your application pack for judges.
Licensing World - Bar Awards 2011: Finalists
Local Bar Award
The Vevay Inn, Bray, Co Wicklow
The Eden House, Rathfarnham, Dublin 14
Ryan’s Bar, Navan, Co Meath
Gleesons of Booterstown, Blackrock, Co Dublin
The Bird Flanaghan’s, Rialto, Dublin 8
Wine Award
The Port House, South William St, Dublin 2
Ely Bar & Brasserie, IFSC, Dublin
The Port House Ibericos, Dundrum, Dublin 14
Ely Wine Bar, Ely Place, Dublin 2
Tourist Bar Award
Rosato’s Bar, Moville, Co Donegal
The Porterhouse Temple Bar, Parliament St, Dublin 2
Crotty’s Pub, Kilrush, Co Clare
The Locke Bar & Oyster House, Georges Quay, Limerick
Cocktail Bar
The Long Island, Washington St, Cork
Residence, St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2
Solas, Wexford St, Dublin 2
Harry’s on the Green, South King St, Dublin 2
Bar Food
The Brian Boru, Prospect Road, Glasnevin, Dublin 9
Arc Café Bar, Liffey Valley, Dublin 22
Lohan’s Café Bar, Salthill, Galway
Sean McDs, Harold’s Cross, Dublin 6W
The Fatted Calf, Glasson, Co Westmeath
The Wild Boar, Stepaside, Co Dublin
Music Award
The Merry Ploughboy, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16
The Mercantile, Dame St, Dublin 2
The Workman’s Club, Wellington Quay, Dublin 2
The Porterhouse, Westport, Co Mayo
The Quay’s, Galway, Co Galway
Nightclub Award
Alchemy Nightclub, Fleet Street, Dublin 2
Club V, Virginia, Co Cavan
Evolution Nightclub, Shannon, Co Clare
The Wright Venue, Airside Retail Park, Swords, Co Dublin
Halo Nightclub, Upper Abbeygate St, Galway
Country Bar Award
Dessie O’Brien’s Bar, Kilrickle, Co Galway
Bill Chawke’s Bar, Adare, Co Limerick
The Bodhrán Bar, Castlewarren. Co Kilkenny
Flanagan’s Pub, Claremorris, Co Mayo
Hotel Bar Award
Preachers Pub, Templegate Hotel, Ennis, Co Clare
Sure Bar, Radisson Blu Royal Dublin, Golden Lane, Dublin 8
The Mint Bar, The Westin, Dublin 2
Uncle Sams, The Mill Times Hotel, Westport, Co Mayo
Jasmine Bar, Brooks Hotel, Dublin 2
Vintage Crop Cocktail Bar, The K-Club, Straffan, Co Kildare
Style Bar Award
The Elm Tree, Glounthaune, Co Cork
TJ Kennedys, Rockwood Parade, Sligo
Gilbert & Wrights, Hollybrook Park, Dublin 3
Lost Society, Powerscourt Townhouse, Dublin 2
City Bar Award
Kyteler’s Inn, Kilkenny, Co Kilkenny
Café en Seine, Dawson St, Dublin 2
The Townhouse, Galway, Co Galway
The Baggot Inn, Lwr Baggot St, Dublin 2
Finalists for Bar Manager of the Year
Damien Clarke – Ryan’s Bar, Navan, Co Meath
Gareth Lambe – Harry’s on the Green, South King St, Dublin 2
Karl Byrne – The Mint Bar, Westin, Dublin 2
Alan Fitzpatrick – Bill Chawke’s Bar, Adare, Co Limerick
Ken Herlihy – Residence, St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2
__________________________________________________
THE 2012 AWARDS WILL BE LAUNCHED IN OUR FEBRUARY 2012 ISSUE OF LICENSING WORLD MAGAZINE
Booterstown Dublin ‘Local’ Wins 2011 National Pub Title
Gleesons of Booterstown, Co Dublin, was named Ireland’s best pub at the National Licensing World Bar Awards in Dublin last night.
Photo Caption: Gleesons of Booterstown named Ireland’s best pub: Award winning brothers (l-r) John and Ciaran Gleeson, owners of Gleesons of Booterstown, Co Dublin, with their wives Patricia and Gillian Gleeson. Gleesons of Booterstown was named Licensing World Bar of the Year 2011 and also took home the Guinness Local Bar Award at a gala awards ceremony in Dublin.
Situated just 15 minutes from Dublin city centre, Gleesons of Booterstown was named ‘Licensing World Bar of the Year 2011’ after also claiming the ‘Guinness Local Bar Award’ earlier in the night.
A landmark bar in South Dublin, Gleesons was chosen from hundreds of entries to claim the top accolade at the sixth Licensing World Bar Awards, a gala annual banquet held in The Four Seasons Hotel, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4.
Over 300 members of the Irish pub and licensed trade attended the black tie event that culminated in publicans John Gleeson, and business partner Ciaran Gleeson, accepting the ‘Licensing World Bar of the Year 2011’ trophy from Nigel Tynan, Editor of Licensing World magazine, and chairman of the Bar Awards.
Gleesons of Booterstown is a family-run premises operated by brothers John and Ciaran Gleeson. A highly popular local, the bar was established in 1954 by their father, Frank Gleeson.
When presenting the Bar of the Year Award, Nigel Tynan, pointed out, ‘Gleesons’ is an exceptionally well-run premises with deep roots in its community. The bar trade is under intense economic pressure and only the best bars will survive. John and Ciaran have invested in the future of their business, they have demonstrated their ability to re-invent their premises yet remain grounded in their local community and focused on their customers.’
He listed recent additions to the premises, including a vibrant new deli business, the Food Corner –offering Gleesons’ own cooked food to take away – and a comfortable café style redesign, complete with a stylish pool room.
‘Success in the bar trade centres around finding new ways to appeal to customers. It is a challenge that all publicans face – Gleesons of Booterstown is a worthy winner of the 2011 title because here we have a great local bar and is continuously seeking to improve both its product offering and customer experience.’
The Licensing World Bar Awards announced a total of 12 category winners (details below).
BAR AWARDS
Gleesons of Booterstown, Co Dublin, scored a double victory as it was named the country’s best ‘local’ earlier in the evening when it won the Guinness Local Bar Award.
John Gleeson accepted the Guinness Local Bar Award from Ciaran Budds, national sales manager, on trade, Diageo Ireland.
A GREAT NIGHT FOR DUBLIN PUBS
Dublin pubs claimed 8 awards at the Licensing World Bar Awards:
Café en Seine – one of the iconic names of the Dublin bar scene – was named as Ireland’s number one city bar when it claimed the Bulmers Original Irish Cider City Bar Award.
Café en Seine was highlighted for ‘triumphantly re-imagining itself in line with modern consumer expectations’. The bar is currently under the stewardship of Ray Byrne, owner of Wineport Lodge and operator of The Ice House, in Ballina, Co Mayo. (Award presentation photography available)
Harry’s on the Green, St King’s Street, Dublin 2, was named Ireland’s leading cocktail destination when it claimed the Edward Dillon Cocktail Bar Award.
Under the stewardship of general manager Gareth Lambe, Harry’s on the Green was highlighted for its imaginative use of premium ingredients and its commitment to in-house training and excellent customer service – making it a must visit cocktail destination. (Award presentation photography available)
The Wright Venue, Airside Retail Park, Swords, Co Dublin was named Ireland’s best nightclub for a second year running when it won the Smirnoff Nightclub Award. (Award presentation photography available)
The highly sought after Edward Dillon Style Bar Award was presented to Lost Society, Powerscourt Townshouse, Dublin 2. Modeled to highlight the 18th Century luxury of its surroundings, Lost Society was named a ‘richly tailored customer focused five-star experience’. (Award presentation photography available)
The Merry Ploughboy, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16, was named a worthy winner of the Deep RiverRock Music Bar Award. The Merry Ploughboy is a traditional pub that is owned and operated by a troupe of musicians. Live music is central and the bar hosts a nightly music and dance show has been running for 22 years.
The Mint Bar at The Westin, Dublin 2, also made it two-in-a-row when it was named the country’s leading hotel bar, after winning the hotly contested Deep RiverRock Hotel Bar Award.
Finally for the Capital, Port House Ibericos, in Dundrum, Dublin 14, took home the Edward Dillon Wine Award.
WINNERS OUTSIDE DUBLIN
Wonderful food in convivial surroundings was central to The Fatted Calf, Glasson, Co Westmeath, winning the Fáilte Ireland Bar Food Award.
Run by Feargal O’Donnell and his wife Fiona, The Fatted Calf, uses locally sourced, seasonal, ingredients in all dishes and offers a combination of gastro-pub fare, an Irish themed tapas bar menu, and contemporary fine-dining in a family friendly atmosphere.
LIMERICK WINS DOUBLE
The prize for Ireland’s number one tourist bar went to Limerick City when the Locke Bar & Oyster House was named winner of the Fáilte Ireland Tourist Bar Award. Situated on the site of one of the country’s oldest pubs, dating back to 1724, this traditional Irish bar is near some of Limerick’s most historical sites, including St Mary’s Cathedral, King John’s Castle and The Hunt Museum.
Finally, Bill Chawke’s Bar in Adare, Co Limerick, part of the Charlie Chawke Pub Group, was named Ireland’s best country pub after scooping the Bulmers Original Irish Cider Country Bar Award.
INDUSTRY FIRST: BAR MANAGER OF THE YEAR
Karl Byrne of The Mint Bar at The Westin, Dublin 2, was named inaugural winner of the Licensing World Bar Manager of the Year Award.
When presenting the award, Andrew O’Gorman, president of the Bartenders Association of Ireland and member of the Bar Awards judging panel, said: ‘This is an exciting addition to the Bar Awards, it is the first time an industry award has been presented that recognises the hugely important role bar managers play in the success of the bar trade and in the greater hospitality sector. Karl Byrne has demonstrated his ability as a great manager of both his bar and his staff and he is passionate about this industry.’
The Licensing World Bar Manager of the Year judging process involves premises visits and a one-on-one interview process whereby all participants are interviewed extensively and asked to demonstrate their managerial approach, how they have improved business efficiency within the last 12 months and to detail how they are responding to changing marketing requirements.
ABOUT LICENSING WORLD BAR AWARDS
All premises that enter the Licensing World Bar Awards are visited by an expert panel of judges. Visits take place during April and May. Each entry is assessed on a lengthy series of relevant criteria including welcome, customer service, ambience, staff training, hygiene, décor, product range and customer appeal.
Quote:
‘The Licensing World Bar Awards are an all-Ireland awards programme dedicated to highlighting and rewarding excellence within the licensed trade. Winning a Bar Award informs customers that your premises rates amongst the best bars in the country and communicates that, as a publican, you are dedicated to service, staff training, ambience, the best in food and drink and provide an excellent customer focused destination,’ explained Nigel Tynan, editor of Licensing World and the Bar Awards chairman.
-ENDS-
For further information and photography from the Awards please contact:
Nigel Tynan
Licensing World
T: 01 214 7920
M: 086 226 7736
E: n.tynan@jemma.ie
Licensing World Bar Awards 2011 – Category Winners & Press Release Download
(Press Shots with Captions: available from Nicola Hickey, Event Manager 01 214 7930.)
GUINNESS LOCAL BAR AWARD
Gleesons of Booterstown, Blackrock, Co Dublin
Download Local Bar Winner Press Release
EDWARD DILLON STYLE BAR AWARD
Lost Society, Powerscourt Townhouse, Dublin 2
Download Style Bar Award Winner Press Release
EDWARD DILLON WINE AWARD
The Port House Ibericos, Dundrum, Dublin 14
Download Wine Award Winner Press Release
DEEP RIVERROCK HOTEL BAR AWARD
The Mint Bar, Westin Hotel, Westmoreland St, Dublin 2
Download Hotel Bar Award Winner Press Release
SMIRNOFF NIGHTCLUB AWARD
Wrights Venue, Airside Business Park, Swords, Co Dublin
Download Nightclub Award Winner Press Release
EDWARD DILLON COCKTAIL BAR AWARD
Harry’s on the Green, St King Street, Dublin 2
Download Cocktail Bar Award Winner Press Release
BULMERS ORIGINAL IRISH CIDER CITY BAR AWARD
Café en Seine, Dublin 2
Download City Bar Award Winner Press Release
DEEP RIVERROCK MUSIC BAR AWARD
The Merry Ploughboy, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16
Download Music Bar Award Winner Press Release
BULMERS ORIGINAL IRISH CIDER COUNTRY BAR AWARD
Bill Chawke’s Bar, Adare, Co Limerick
Download Country Bar Award Winner Press Release
FÁILTE IRELAND BAR FOOD AWARD
The Fatted Calf, Glasson, Co Westmeath
Download Bar Food Award Winner Press Release
FÁILTE IRELAND TOURIST BAR AWARD
Locke Bar & Oyster House, Georges Quay, Limerick
Download Touist Bar Award Winner Press Release
LICENSING WORLD BAR MANAGER OF THE YEAR
Karl Byrne, The Mint Bar, The Westin, Dublin 2
Download Bar Manager of The Year Press Release
LICENSING WORLD BAR OF THE YEAR 2011
Gleesons of Booterstown, Blackrock, Co Dublin
Download Overall Winner Press Release Here
(Overall winning bar is chosen from all category winners.)
Licensing World Bar Awards - Summary of Categories
LOCAL BAR AWARD: Bars entering the ‘local’ category should be focused on catering primarily to a local community, either rural or urban. The quality of the ‘pint’ is viewed as important and the bar needs to offer an informal atmosphere which caters to all age groups.
STYLE BAR AWARD: Offering a consistent and unique image throughout, Style Bar entrants will be judged on the premises décor, superior level of customer service and their drinks’ range, including premium, super premium and niche brands. A Style Bar should be seen to excel in all areas: skills in mixology, wines, customer management are vital and a strong selection of premium alcohols and accompanying printed lists are expected.
HOTEL BAR AWARD: The bar must be an integral part of the hotel and accessible to both residents and non-residents. Staff should be trained in all elements of customer service and drinks and food on offer should reflect the classification of the hotel. Please Note: Hotel bars are restricted to this category only and will not be judged in alternative award categories.
NIGHTCLUB AWARD: Catering to the late night clubbing scene, the décor will be considered as will music facilities/ technologies. A selection of premium brands and cocktails is expected, a high level of service is essential, atmosphere and safety is highly important.
COCKTAIL BAR: This category seeks to highlight the innovative approach to cocktail creation adopted by Ireland’s leading bars. Regardless of size or volume, participating bars need to demonstrate a skilled approach to cocktail creation, mixology talent and use of fresh ingredients.
MUSIC BAR AWARD: Music needs to be the principal attraction of the premises, regardless of what music genre/age group the bar is catering to. The venue should offer good sound capabilities and a dancing area/stage where applicable.
CITY BAR AWARD: This award provides proper recognition of the significant number of city-based bars who provide a unique and varied product to both local and international customers. A City Bar is defined as any premises that is situated in one of Ireland’s listed cities: Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford or Kilkenny. All bars located in these cities, regardless of size, qualify for this competitive category.
TOURIST BAR AWARD: Tourist Bars are deemed to offer a specific ‘tourism orientated’ hospitality offering, regardless of whether that is Irish dancing or the promotion of a bar’s unique Irish heritage. Food or live music is not a necessity; however it is important that entrants tailor their product offering to both national and international customers.
BAR FOOD AWARD: Hot food should be a primary offering whether it’s homely basic or more advanced cuisine, both are equally applicable. Service is all-important and the use of local produce can highlight your bar as a serious gastro-pub, however this is not essential as the quality of the food on offer will have the final say.
Don't forget to submit your menu!
WINE AWARD: Your premises should stock a range of wines representative of the principal European and New World wine producing regions. Wines should be promoted through various marketing initiatives and staff should have a capable knowledge of wine and how it is served. A wine list is a must - you may submit a copy of this to support your entry.
COUNTRY BAR AWARD: This category recognises and highlights the binding role Country Bars play in rural communities throughout Ireland. Through this award we are offering rural premises the opportunity to emphasise the integral role they play in their local communities as a unique and vital social outlet. The Country Bar Award is open to all bars outside of major population centres and the ideal finalists will have strong ties to their local community and will be active in their approach to local business.
BAR OF THE YEAR: All category winners are automatically entered into the ‘Bar of the Year’ category, as sponsored by Licensing World. This is the top award and is decided at the discretion of the panel of judges. The Licensing World Bar of the Year Award 2011 will be presented to the premises which is judged to have been ‘outstanding’ in its awards category.
* * NEW CATEGORY FOR 2011 - BAR MANAGER OF THE YEAR * *
Success within the on trade is driven by innovative people with strong management skills and dedication to their chosen industry. The Bar Manager of the Year Award is an exciting new category and the first award in Ireland devoted to recognizing and rewarding the hugely significant role Bar Managers play in every successful licensed outlet.
Within this category we are looking to be impressed by examples of managerial skills, knowledge of the on trade, customer approach, professionalism and expertise at all times. The Bar Manager of the Year category is open to full-time Bar Managers and General Managers, nominations are accepted from publicans/owners or managers can opt to nominate
themselves. The judging process requires completion of the Bar Awards Entry Form plus the attachment of additional details that cover the following four headings:
Employment – provide employment details, relevant dates, contacts etc
Management – explain your approach to management covering staff and overall business efficiency/improvement (illustrate with examples).
Innovation – provide details of how you have innovated within the last 12 months and how you have responded to changing market requirements.
Career – explain why you would like to be recognised as Bar Manager of the Year?
Please include references from two previous employers. Entries will be shortlisted and chosen finalists must be available to attend a 30 minute interview session in Dublin on 17 May.
Please email Bar Manager of the Year entries to Nicola Hickey
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - THE BAR AWARDS ENTRY PROCESS(FAQ'S)
Am I eligible?
All licensed premises on the island of Ireland may enter the Bar Awards – each entrant will be visited at least once by a member of the Bar Awards judging panel.
How do I enter?
Simply fill out the attached entry form, send it back to us and we’ll do the rest. Alternatively visit our website – www.licensingworld.ie – and follow the Bar Awards link. If your bar is chosen as a finalist you will be contacted by Licensing World in ample time to book your place at the gala awards night at the Four Seasons Hotel, Dublin.
Why are these Awards important?
Now entering its fifth year, the Licensing World Bar Awards are dedicated to raising the profile of the licensed trade and reminding consumers of the excellent service and quality that exists within the licensed trade today. Each year the awards receive considerable national media coverage and in many cases we have received evidence of winning bars experiencing a major turnover boost.
As a finalist what do I get?
All finalists are invited to attend a gala banquet at the Four Seasons Hotel in Dublin and are provided with a specially created certificate to commemorate the occasion. This framed certificate can be displayed in your bar, acknowledging your status among Ireland’s leading licensed premises.
And if I win?
Each category winner is presented on stage with a specially commissioned trophy. Press releases and images are provided for your convenience and we at Licensing World will assist in highlighting your bar’s premier position among Ireland’s elite licensed premises.
Who are the judges?
We have compiled an expert panel of judges who are themselves former industry people, training and service experts and food and tourism representatives. Professionalism in the judging process is our utmost concern and every premises that enters the awards will be visited on at least one occasion. The judge’s decision and experiences are confidential and no correspondence will be entered into.
How do I book my place?
A detailed list of all finalists will be published in the May issue of Licensing World. Category winners will only be announced at the actual Bar Awards ceremony, scheduled to take place on 21 June at the Four Seasons Hotel, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4. For information on how to book your place at the Bar Awards ceremony, you can contact our events team on 01 214 7930. Places are limited however so do book early.
What's the Judging Criteria
In assessing each entry the judges will have regard to the following criteria:
1. Welcome
2. Customer Service
3. Ambience
4. Staff Training
5. Hygiene
6. Product Knowledge
7. Food Offering (where applicable)
8. Safety/Security
9. Décor
10. Product/Wine Range
11. Entertainment/Music Facilities
12. Outdoor/Smoking Facilities
How to Impress The Judges:
• A friendly greeting goes a long way
• In a service industry, service is everything
• Product understanding is always important
• Professional staff should dress accordingly
• Menus, food or drink can be attractive sales tools
• Hygienic toilets are always a consideration
• Fresh ingredients make great cocktails
• Safety and security are issues that matter.
Where do I send my supporting information?
If you have any menus, wine lists of other relevant supporting document please send these by email to our Events Manager Nicola Hickey who will include them in your application pack for judges.
Licensing World - Bar Awards 2011: Finalists
Local Bar Award
The Vevay Inn, Bray, Co Wicklow
The Eden House, Rathfarnham, Dublin 14
Ryan’s Bar, Navan, Co Meath
Gleesons of Booterstown, Blackrock, Co Dublin
The Bird Flanaghan’s, Rialto, Dublin 8
Wine Award
The Port House, South William St, Dublin 2
Ely Bar & Brasserie, IFSC, Dublin
The Port House Ibericos, Dundrum, Dublin 14
Ely Wine Bar, Ely Place, Dublin 2
Tourist Bar Award
Rosato’s Bar, Moville, Co Donegal
The Porterhouse Temple Bar, Parliament St, Dublin 2
Crotty’s Pub, Kilrush, Co Clare
The Locke Bar & Oyster House, Georges Quay, Limerick
Cocktail Bar
The Long Island, Washington St, Cork
Residence, St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2
Solas, Wexford St, Dublin 2
Harry’s on the Green, South King St, Dublin 2
Bar Food
The Brian Boru, Prospect Road, Glasnevin, Dublin 9
Arc Café Bar, Liffey Valley, Dublin 22
Lohan’s Café Bar, Salthill, Galway
Sean McDs, Harold’s Cross, Dublin 6W
The Fatted Calf, Glasson, Co Westmeath
The Wild Boar, Stepaside, Co Dublin
Music Award
The Merry Ploughboy, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16
The Mercantile, Dame St, Dublin 2
The Workman’s Club, Wellington Quay, Dublin 2
The Porterhouse, Westport, Co Mayo
The Quay’s, Galway, Co Galway
Nightclub Award
Alchemy Nightclub, Fleet Street, Dublin 2
Club V, Virginia, Co Cavan
Evolution Nightclub, Shannon, Co Clare
The Wright Venue, Airside Retail Park, Swords, Co Dublin
Halo Nightclub, Upper Abbeygate St, Galway
Country Bar Award
Dessie O’Brien’s Bar, Kilrickle, Co Galway
Bill Chawke’s Bar, Adare, Co Limerick
The Bodhrán Bar, Castlewarren. Co Kilkenny
Flanagan’s Pub, Claremorris, Co Mayo
Hotel Bar Award
Preachers Pub, Templegate Hotel, Ennis, Co Clare
Sure Bar, Radisson Blu Royal Dublin, Golden Lane, Dublin 8
The Mint Bar, The Westin, Dublin 2
Uncle Sams, The Mill Times Hotel, Westport, Co Mayo
Jasmine Bar, Brooks Hotel, Dublin 2
Vintage Crop Cocktail Bar, The K-Club, Straffan, Co Kildare
Style Bar Award
The Elm Tree, Glounthaune, Co Cork
TJ Kennedys, Rockwood Parade, Sligo
Gilbert & Wrights, Hollybrook Park, Dublin 3
Lost Society, Powerscourt Townhouse, Dublin 2
City Bar Award
Kyteler’s Inn, Kilkenny, Co Kilkenny
Café en Seine, Dawson St, Dublin 2
The Townhouse, Galway, Co Galway
The Baggot Inn, Lwr Baggot St, Dublin 2
Finalists for Bar Manager of the Year
Damien Clarke – Ryan’s Bar, Navan, Co Meath
Gareth Lambe – Harry’s on the Green, South King St, Dublin 2
Karl Byrne – The Mint Bar, Westin, Dublin 2
Alan Fitzpatrick – Bill Chawke’s Bar, Adare, Co Limerick
Ken Herlihy – Residence, St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2
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