Tidy Towns prize awarded to Limerick city centre eatery

THE LATEST Limerick City Tidy Towns award has gone to a local restaurant.

The Spitjack, located at the corner of Bedford Row and Henry Street in the city centre has been honoured for the uplift it has given to such a prominent spot in the city centre.

For years, the area was home to The Bitter End nightclub. But it’s all sweetness for owner Richard Gavin after picking up the bi-monthly award from Limerick Tidy Towns.

Maura O’Neill of the voluntary group said: “I think everyone will agree that The Spitjack has been a fabulous addition to the hospitality offering in Limerick city, not only because of the quality of its food and service, but also for its appearance, particularly as it occupies such a prominent unit at the corner of Henry Street and Bedford Row, which had been vacant for many years prior to being occupied by The Spitjack.”

She described the signage of the restaurant and its paintwork as being “impeccable”.

“The external dining area with its attractive floral arrangements has helped to attract more footfall and rejuvenate this pedestrianised street in the heart of the city centre,” Maura added.

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The Spitjack first opened in Cork in 2017 by husband and wife team Richard and Laura Gavin.

The Limerick branch opening took place in 2020, despite being delayed due to the Covid-19 lockdown.

After years working in high end hospitality across Europe, the couple wanted to open a restaurant using local produce.

They said they recognised the quality and high standard of Irish meat and wanted to focus their restaurants on this, specifically the possibility of rotisserie cooking.

The Spitjack is Limerick City Tidy Town’s third winner for 2024 and will be in with a chance to be overall winner at next year’s annual event, along with the Adapt Shop in Parnell Street, who won the January-February award and Thompson’s Funeral Home, who won the March-April award.

If you wish to nominate a business in the city for an award or indeed to volunteer with Limerick City Tidy Towns, they meet every Sunday morning at 11 am at the corner of Thomas Street and O’Connell Street, and on Wednesday evenings at 6pm outside the White House bar.