Keegan’s Bar has been voted Co Armagh’s best pub at the third Northern Ireland Hospitality Awards.
The city establishment picked up the gong following a glitzy ceremony at The Crowne Plaza Hotel in Belfast last week.
And proprietor Laura Keegan couldn’t be happier.
“It is an absolute honour to be acknowledged in the industry for such a brilliant award,” Laura told Armagh I.
“My father , 70 years of age, has been in bar trade for 45-50 years, marrying 36 years ago with his wife following him into the bar trade.
“We have been in business for 28 years as a family of four, my father and mother have endured some of the hardest times, with standards and expectations changing in the industry constantly, along with a massive recession.
“Just before the recession hit they took on the project of investing into the refurbishment of their bar, but with consistent hard work they were able to overcome many obstacles that all publicans in the hospitality industry have had to endure.
“We now served food five days a week, Wednesday – Sunday, serving local home made food, mixing both food and pub life together to ensure we cover all our customers needs.
“This award is such a massive boost for us. We are thrilled and hope to continue on with the hard work doing whatever it takes to keeping Armagh city on the map.”
The elegant event was hosted by Paulo Ross. He presented 31 awards to the deserving winners, acknowledging them for their hard work and determination to making Northern Ireland the incredible place we all appreciate.
The winners were voted for by the public and are a true reflection of the success, professionalism and ethos; three qualities that set them apart from the others.
A spokesperson for The Northern Ireland Hospitality Awards 2019, said: “The Awards have acknowledged some incredible individuals who make a positive difference to the hospitality industry.
“It was great to meet with inspiring people who work hard and go above and beyond the call of duty to meet their guests’ needs and improve the country’s cultural scene.
“We would like to congratulate all finalists and winners for their amazing achievements.”