New permanent outdoor dining facilities for Bantry
Geraldine Fitzgerald
A new, European-style permanent outdoor dining facility has been successfully completed at the Quays in Bantry, catering for customers of nearby restaurants and providing a beautiful outdoor, year-round space to enjoy the picturesque surroundings of the town and to watch the world go by.
The facilities, funded by Fáilte Ireland under the Local Authority Weatherproofing and Outdoor Dining Infrastructure scheme in partnership with Cork County Council will greatly enhance the dining experience for residents and visitors alike, regardless of weather or season.
The new permanent outdoor dining infrastructure consists of tables and seating of various sizes, parasols, planters and electric heaters. The dining area caters for customers of nearby restaurants, including The Quays, The Brick Oven and The Snug & O’D’s.
The market town of Bantry has a strong food offering, with a vast range of restaurants, cafes and pubs to cater for all tastes and budgets. The introduction of outdoor dining facilities is a welcome addition to Bantry's vibrant culinary scene.
Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Danny Collins welcomed the completion of the project. “The food service industry is intrinsically linked to the economy, tourism and employment in Bantry.
“With capacity to accommodate 100 diners, this new dining space will enable restaurant-goers to dine outdoors beyond the summer season and encourage visitors to extend their stay in Bantry. I look forward to seeing the space being utilised to its full potential over the months and years to come.”
Josephine O’Driscoll, Manager Wild Atlantic Way, Fáilte Ireland, said: “It is fantastic to see Bantry’s outdoor dining infrastructure being so well received by trade and visitors alike. Outdoor dining is now a permanent feature of our tourism and hospitality offering post-Covid, and facilities like these allow visitors to access outdoor dining options for longer periods of the year, supporting local businesses to sustainably develop and adding to the atmosphere in the town.”
Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey added: “I would like to thank Fáilte Ireland for their support in bringing this project to fruition. These facilities not only add to the aesthetic appeal of the town but also provide a safe and enjoyable dining experience for all.”