Dublin’s Phoenix Park Cafe Gets New Operators After 26 Years

After 26 years of serving warm welcomes and delicious bites, Helen Cunningham and Angela Butler are stepping down from managing Dublin’s iconic Phoenix Park Cafe and Tea Rooms. Their journey began in 1998, transforming the spaces into local favourites known for their high-quality service and focus on fresh, local ingredients.

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Honoring 26 Years of Excellence at Phoenix Park Cafe and Tea Rooms

It has been an amazing adventure to transform the Phoenix Cafe and Tea Rooms into beloved institutions, Ms. Cunningham remarked, considering their tenure. “We are incredibly proud of everything we have accomplished, transforming the tea rooms and café into the beloved businesses they are today.

Their dedication has undoubtedly resonated with both customers and colleagues. Phoenix Park Superintendent Paul McDonnell expressed his gratitude for their “excellent service” and the numerous food awards received under their leadership.

But change is on the horizon. On February 23rd, the baton will be passed to The Wright Group, a seasoned player in the Irish hospitality scene. After a competitive process, they secured the catering concession, promising to uphold the values that made the cafes cherished landmarks.

“We welcome the Cunningham Butler staff and chefs into our group,” said Michael Wright, CEO of The Wright Group. “We will bring our unique food offering to these historic locations,” he added, ensuring a seamless transition while introducing fresh culinary experiences.

Sustainability and locally sourced ingredients remain central to The Wright Group’s philosophy, aligning perfectly with the cafes’ existing ethos. “Our ‘farm to fork’ ethos will be boosted by the organic produce already used,” Mr. Wright explained.

For those who cherish the cafe’s existing offerings, there’s no need to worry. The OPW assures everyone that “the same high-quality service and local produce crafted with passion” will continue to be the hallmark of the cafe.

The transition marks a bittersweet moment. While a beloved era concludes, the future promises exciting new flavours and continued dedication to excellence. This precious corner of Phoenix Park Cafe is ready to welcome its next chapter, ensuring memories continue to be made over steaming cups of tea and delicious meals.

In the end, this changing of the guard marks not just a transition in ownership but also a celebration of the legacy built by Ms. Cunningham and Ms. Butler. As they move on, we wish them well and eagerly await the future this beloved institution will unfold under The Wright Group’s stewardship.