QC’s Seafood Restaurant Honored as Best in Ireland: A Legacy Remembered
In a touching tribute to a beloved culinary partnership, Kate Cooke, the co-owner of QC’s Seafood Restaurant in Cahirsiveen, Co. Kerry, dedicated her recent accolade as the Best Seafood Restaurant in the country to her late husband and head chef, Andrew Cooke. The recognition was awarded at the 2024 Georgina Campbell Irish Food and Hospitality Awards, celebrating over two decades of commitment to quality and community.
Honoring a Culinary Legacy
Kate Cooke, a mother of four and the driving force behind QC’s Seafood Restaurant Bar and Townhouse, reflected on this poignant achievement, stating, "It’s his legacy. It’s so nice to be recognized and respected for our business over the last 25 years." She revealed that the values of quality, consistency, and value have been at the heart of their family-run establishment since its inception.
The restaurant, part of the Quinlan and Cooke’s Boutique Townhouse, has garnered a loyal following, including notable visitors such as actor Aidan Quinn and golfer Graeme McDowell. Following Andrew’s passing in February 2019, Kate has continued to uphold the high standards they established, emphasizing local sourcing, "We support our local producers and businesses. We have the best of the best of Irish fish as opposed to having it imported."
Community-Centric Approach
The seafood served at QC’s is sourced from a family fishmonger, originally established by Kate’s father and now run by her three brothers. This local connection extends to their meat and bakery suppliers, ensuring that every dish championing Irish heritage utilizes local products. "Everything we use is local Irish produce, and we have always endorsed that because it is the key to our success," Kate affirmed.
Navigating Economic Challenges
Despite her recognition, Kate and her restaurant face significant challenges within a tumultuous hospitality landscape burdened by economic pressures. This year alone, numerous establishments have shuttered, citing a hefty VAT rate of 13.5% as a primary concern. Small businesses, including QC’s, are advocating for a reduction to 9% in hopes of revitalizing the sector.
"Our produce costs have skyrocketed by 300%," Kate explained. “We’re all aware of pricing, but we never, ever scrimp on quality, so our customers don’t mind paying a bit more for it.” To adapt, QC’s has altered its operating hours, now closed for lunch and opening earlier in the evening—a pragmatic move Kate describes as “working smarter.”
Culinary Highlights and Future Aspirations
Recognized for its exceptional dishes such as shellfish bisque, black sole, and turbot sauce verde, QC’s Seafood Restaurant continues to draw diners from across the country and beyond. "People come from all over for it; their first stop is to come to our restaurant because it’s synonymous with what we’re about," said Kate.
Looking toward the future, Kate expresses optimism, hoping one of her four children will eventually take the reins of the business. "I’m not worried about the future; I’m excited about it. I’m not going anywhere anytime soon."
Rising Stars in Fine Dining
Alongside QC’s achievements, another highlight of the Georgina Campbell awards was Restaurant Chestnut in Ballydehob, Co. Cork, which received the Bijou Fine Dining of the Year Award. Led by general manager Elaine Fleming and chef Rob Krawczyk, the restaurant clinched a Michelin star just six months post-opening in 2018. Elaine shares, "Our bread and butter is our signature dish. Rob uses milk and cream sourced from a local farm and makes the butter in-house, leaving a memorable impression on our diners."
Engaging the Community
The profound impact these restaurants—both QC’s and Chestnut—have on their communities is evident through their commitment to local sourcing and preserving culinary traditions. As more diners seek authentic experiences that celebrate Irish heritage and support local economies, these establishments are paving the way for a flourishing future in the culinary world.
Do you have a favorite dish from QC’s Seafood Restaurant or another local eatery you would like to share? Your thoughts and experiences are welcome in the comments below.
