In a triumphant moment for Limerick City’s hospitality scene, Mother Macs Public House has emerged as a shining star on the national stage, scooping three major accolades at the inaugural Irish Bar & Cocktail Awards.
In an evening that celebrated excellence, innovation, and tradition in Irish hospitality, Mother Macs Public House claimed the coveted title of Overall Bar of the Year, along with Traditional Bar of the Year and Whiskey Bar of the Year.
These awards represent more than just recognition for a single venue – they are a testament to the vibrant, dynamic, and evolving hospitality culture of Limerick.
In a city often overlooked in national conversations, this clean sweep at a prestigious All-Ireland awards programme sends a clear message: Limerick is not just competing – it’s leading.
The Irish Bar & Cocktail Awards, operated by the same experienced team behind the highly respected YesChef Awards, is an all-island bar awards programme. With a robust judging process that includes mystery guest visits and a final review by a panel of hospitality experts, the awards are designed to spotlight excellence across every corner of Ireland.
Speaking after the win, Michael McMahon, co-owner of Mother Macs, reflected on what the awards mean to both the team and the city:
“This recognition is not just about our bar – it’s about Limerick. We’ve always believed in the potential of this city and its people. These awards show that hard work, innovation, and a deep respect for tradition can thrive here. We’re incredibly proud to represent Limerick on a national stage.”
This spirit of innovation and tireless dedication is exemplified in Mother Macs. Situated on High Street, at the heart of Limerick’s historic core, the pub has long been a local favourite.
But in recent years, under the vision and stewardship of its passionate team, Mother Macs has become a nationally recognised destination for whiskey lovers, traditional pub enthusiasts, and curious tourists looking for an authentic Irish experience.
Their transformation has included the launch of Peggy’s Whiskey Parlour, the introduction of Limerick Whiskey Experience, participation in major cultural events such as Culture Night and Féile na Gréine, and a steadfast commitment to storytelling, heritage, and community.
They have struck a delicate balance – celebrating Ireland’s rich pub tradition while also creating forward-thinking experiences that resonate with a new generation of drinkers.
To win Traditional Bar of the Year acknowledges the deep respect the team has for Irish pub culture – a culture that is rooted in conversation, character, and community. Meanwhile, the Whiskey Bar of the Year award shines a spotlight on their tireless efforts to promote Irish whiskey, both established and emerging, in engaging and accessible ways.
But it’s the Overall Bar of the Year title that cements Mother Macs Public House as a beacon of excellence.
This win, chosen by an expert panel and based on mystery guest visits, demonstrates that a Limerick bar can stand shoulder to shoulder with the very best across Ireland.
It reflects positively on Limerick’s resurgent identity as a city full of creativity, resilience, and hospitality.
It proves that quality is not confined to Dublin or the major tourist hubs – it’s thriving in the heart of the Midwest.
This win is not just about one bar. It reflects positively on Limerick’s resurgent identity as a city full of creativity, resilience, and hospitality. For local businesses, it’s a rallying cry – proof that with passion, innovation, and community spirit, recognition will come.
For visitors and locals alike, Mother Macs Public House has become more than a bar. It is a place where stories are told, where past and present meet over a perfectly poured pint or a thoughtfully chosen dram, and where the best of Irish hospitality is on full display.
As the team at Mother Macs celebrates their well-earned success, they carry with them the pride of a city – and the momentum of a hospitality scene on the rise.
