Cork’s most centrally located four-star hotel, Maldron Hotel South Mall, has played a key role in helping to transform Beasley Street into a stylish al fresco dining area and underline the city’s position as a top foodie destination. The hotel has invested €80,000, alongside Cork City Council who contributed €120,000 through Failte Ireland’s Outdoor Dining Scheme.

The investment has helped transform Beasley Street into a haven for outdoor diners and social butterflies, come rain or shine, with the introduction of parasols, awnings, giant umbrellas, windbreaks, heaters, festoon lighting and planters. The street has also been resurfaced with original cobblestones.

Adding to the vibrancy of the area, Ardú street artist, Peter Martin has been commissioned to complete murals on the street and these are due for completion at the end of August.

With capacity for up to 180 people, diners can enjoy eating al fresco from the Grain & Grill Restaurant and Bar menu, order from the full bar menu featuring delicious cocktails, wine and beer, or relax with a barista prepared coffee from the hotel’s very own Red Bean Roastery coffee shop.

Maldron Hotel South Mall General Manager, Robert McCarthy said: “The street is a really welcoming place for al fresco diners. The past few summers have really opened people’s eyes to the joys and benefits of outdoor dining. It’s fair to say the Irish weather, even in the summer, can be a little unpredictable which sometimes puts people off eating outdoors but with heaters, umbrellas and awnings we are now fully equipped to deal with anything Mother Nature throws our way.

“We are proud to be able to make such a large investment in helping cement Cork’s position as a favourite foodie destination and when more people visit the city from near and far to see what the buzz is all about, we will be happy to welcome them.”

The investment from Dalata Hotel Group Plc, operators of Maldron Hotels, is an important part of a wider €1.3million investment in Cork streets by Failte Ireland and delivered by the city’s council.

Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Colm Kelleher said: “Thanks to the Maldron Hotel South Mall for really embracing this initiative. The investment in Beasley Street will not only enhance the immediate area but will also encourage more people to visit the city.

“It is fantastic to see hotels like Maldron Hotel South Mall providing not only a wonderful stay but also a memorable dining experience.