Sanjay's Kitchen recognised at Irish Restaurant Awards

Birr restaurant Sanjay's Kitchen, has been awarded 'Best World Cuisine' in Leinster at the Irish Restaurant Awards held in the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road, Dublin, on Monday night.

Sanjay's Kitchen was also one of five nominated for the 'All-Ireland Best World Cuisine' accolade which was awarded to Miyazaki Japanese restaurant in Cork city.

The accolade marks further recogition for the Market Square business which offers customers a modern twist on Indian food.

The restaurant specialises in dishes from different regions of the Indian subcontinent and is a local favourite.

In a social media post, the restaurant thanked its "amazing customers" for their "support, trust and love" which made "this achievement possible".

"Here’s to more flavours, more memories, and many more celebrations together. Thank you, Ireland!"

Meanwhile, there was further recognition for Midlands hospitality when John Coffey, the head chef of Athlone restaurant Thyme, was recognised as the Leinster winner in the 'Best World Cuisine' category.

The Michelin listed restaurant was established almost two decades ago by owner and head chef, John Coffey, and has grown its reputation steadily since then for the consistency and quality of its food offering which makes extensive use of local produce sourced from producers right across the Midlands.

Now in its 17th year, the Irish Restaurant Awards received over 150,000 public nominations in 2026, showing the continued support for and engagement with Ireland's hospitality sector. Nominations were submitted by the public via The Irish Times website.