McKenna’s Guide names Dingle restaurants as the best in Kerry

THE best dining in Kerry can be found in Dingle, according to Mc Kenna’s Sunday Times list of Ireland’s 100 best restaurants.

The guide published on Sunday ranks two Dingle restaurants as the best places to eat in Kerry, proclaiming The Global Village run by Martin Bealin and Solas Tapas Bar run by Nicky Foley and Ann Connell as the cream of the crop.

The Global Village is familiar to gastronomic pundits having received many accolades, including ‘ Best Emerging Irish Cuisine’ for its innovative menu using local ingredients over the last decade. Martin’s understanding of the quality of the raw materials available in West Kerry has inspired him to work to establish Dingle as a top food destination in Ireland.

Solas Tapas Bar – a newcomer in Dingle, having opened only last March - is a collaboration between former neighbours and friends chef Nicky Foley and the Dalys of Dingle Crystal.

Nicky grew up in Ballyduff, Waterford, close to where Sean Daly and his wife Liz ( RIP) raised their family. He arrived in Dingle a few years ago. In his career as a chef to date he has worked with Michelin star chef Richard Corrigan in London and spent several years in Spain, where was immersed in the tapas culture. Adam Daly saw an opening for adopting the tapas culture to provide exceptional casual dining in Dingle and thus the collaboration was formed.

“We are absolutely delighted to be one of only two restaurants in Kerry mentioned in the definitive guide to eating out in Ireland,” said Adam, who pointed out that Nicky is the man behind the success.

The chefs in Solas include Louise Ní Bhrosnacháin, who has previously worked in both the Global Village and Ídá’s, while the front of house is managed by Ann Connell.