Have you noticed the number of food establishments we have in Mallow at the moment? The restaurant trade seems to be one of the few that is blooming recently. We have a clutter of cafes, a ton of takeaways, a batallion of bistros and a rabble of restaurants. Food quality varies from adequate to exquisite, but there really doesn’t seem to be a bad apple in the basket.

photo credit: Paris by Mouth

My most recent experience in one of the Italian restaurants was an eye-opener. We had to wait for a table, and there was a queue in reception for the duration of our visit. Having said that the service was friendly and relaxed, and at no time did we feel pressured to eat up and get out. It was, in essence, a great dining experience.

So what’s Kinsale got that Mallow doesn’t have? Higher prices for starters…