Newcomer of the Year

Judging the Newcomer of the Year Catey is never an easy task, and this year was no exception, as the level of nominations for this category was extremely high.

Last year's winner, Coniston Hall Lodge and Restaurant, was going to be a hard act to follow, having set such high standards for this category. However, there was one newcomer that made the grade, fitted the criteria and whose customer service, facilities and financial background stood out from the rest, and that was Brownes Brasserie and Townhouse.

Privately owned and operated, Brownes is a 12-bedroom townhouse hotel and restaurant, located in the popular area of St Stephen's Green in the heart of Dublin. Owner Barry Canny spent most of his life developing businesses in the clothing industry.

However, with his excellent business acumen and a keen interest in property, he recognised an opportunity when 22 St Stephen's Green was put on the market. The 80-seat brasserie opened in November 1998 and the carefully restored Georgian townhouse under the management of Justin Green joined it in February 1999.

Local ingredients

The brasserie is widely acclaimed and has become one of Dublin's most talked-about restaurants. The extensive menu offers traditional and more up-to-date dishes, with various specials, all made with local ingredients.

One guest remarked on the "sumptuous food in splendid surroundings", and another spoke of "outstanding food and luxurious accommodation", both comments showing that the hard work Canny and Green have put into building the business is paying off.

The judges were impressed with the financial health of the business - turnover increased from IR£1.6m in the first year to IR£2.2m in the second and is expected to exceed that by more than IR£500,000 this year.

Since opening, Brownes has earned several awards, including the Gilbeys 2000 Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Catering, and the Bushmills Malt 2000 Best Restaurant Appearance.

"They have moulded themselves very well to get to where they are today, and the turnover speaks for itself," commented last year's winner, Michael Bannister.

The growing business proves that the owners of Brownes have found their niche in the market, and the high level of customer service and superb facilities will ensure that the business continues to grow. Now, with the Newcomer of the Year Catey to add to its list of achievements, Brownes Brasserie and Townhouse will, no doubt, continue to go from strength to strength. n