Mayo bar scoops Late Night Bar of the Year award

The Barrel and Castle, one of Castlebar’s newest culinary hotspots has once again demonstrated its excellence, having just won the award of Late Night Bar of the Year at the Irish Bar and Cocktail Awards. This comes just two months after been awarded Newcomer of the Year 2025 at the prestigious Yes Chef Ireland Awards 2025.

Having only opened its doors in March 2024, the Barrel and Castle has made a big impression in a short span of time. In addition to these national awards, it also received the Irish Pub Regional Outstanding Customer Service Award just months after launching - an impressive achievement that highlights its dedication to quality and customer service.

Owned and operated by Joe and Marian O’Malley, The Barrel and Castle has quickly built a reputation for its warm atmosphere, attentive service, and a menu that blends contemporary Irish flavours with local charm. The venue has fast become a favourite among locals and visitors, adding new energy to Castlebar’s food scene.

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“We are absolutely honoured to receive these awards,” said Darragh McGarry, Group Manager. "Achieving national recognition in just over a year in business is an amazing milestone which is incredibly rewarding. We owe it all to our passionate team and loyal customers.”

Both The Yes Chef Ireland and the Irish Bar and Cocktail awards celebrate the best in Irish hospitality, and the Newcomer of the Year category recognises establishments that demonstrate exceptional quality and innovation within their first year.

Joe O’Malley added: “This journey has exceeded our expectations. Winning a customer service award so early on was a testament to our incredible staff, and now two more awards feels like the cherry on top. We’re so proud to represent Castlebar on this stage.”

Pictured above are some of the staff of the Barrel and Castlebar, who were delighted to win another award, from left: Ella Browne, Maria Browne, Manager Darragh Mc Garry, Mike Hopkins, Dan Prendergast, Amy Leonard, Julianne Coen, Tiernan McIntyre, Rhys Meagher, Front of House Manager Saoirse Hannigan and Conor King.