Brought to you by The Blue Haven Collection. 

All is not lost.

While Cork gets to grips with the latest raft of Covid-19 restrictions as part of Level 3, the good news is that it’s still possible to follow the rules to the letter without going into hiding.

No birthday, anniversary, engagement or special milestone need go uncelebrated right now – it’s even okay to celebrate that Friday feeling with a pint and a pizza.

Behind the scenes at the Blue Haven Collection of bars, restaurants and hotels in Kinsale and in Cork city, staff have been adapting to the new regulations and all dining has been moved outdoors, where up to 15 customers can enjoy a coffee, cocktails or a bite to eat or pick up something delicious to enjoy at home.

The alfresco seating is cosy and the patio heaters are blazing, so grab a warm coat and check out what’s on offer at one of the following Blue Haven Collection venues:

1. THE BLUE HAVEN HOTEL, KINSALE

Staycations are still allowed under Level 3 provided you don’t leave your own county. Luckily for us, the Blue Haven Hotel is a 25-minute spin from the city.

As if a seaside getaway could look more enticing right now, they’ve just launched a tempting deal including one night’s accommodation, house-baked cookies on arrival, a large wood-fired pizza to share at Hamlet’s and a gourmet breakfast the following morning – all for a bargain €129 per room.

To book the break, call 021 477 22 09 or email info@bluehavenkinsale.com.

2. THE OLD BANK HOUSE, KINSALE

It’s one of the best spots for people-watching in Kinsale and you can still nab a seat outside The Old Bank House for the duration of the Level 3 restrictions.

Take away is available from 7.30am to 4pm every day, with a full menu of fresh coffee, pastries, soup, sandwiches, quiches, cakes and smoothies ready and waiting – perfect for putting together a quick picnic lunch for a walk on the Old Head.

You call in your order on 021 470 6090 or pop in.

3. HAMLETS, KINSALE

It’s business as usual at Hamlets outdoor Street Food and Gastro Garden, albeit on a more intimate level. Open seven days a week, Hamlets is continuing to serve breakfast from 8am to 11.45am before the chefs serve up a tasty street food menu from 12 midday to 9pm.

Drinks will be served from 12 midday to 11.30pm and the new outdoor sports garden is now open for all live games (pre-booking essential).

If you want to enjoy all the flavour of Hamlets Street Food and Gastro Garden at home, the Click & Collect service gives you access to all of Hamlets’ best-loved dishes, carefully packed to be enjoyed at home.

To pre-book your table, call Hamlets on 021 4772209 or check out the new menu here. 

4. VIKKI’S WINE BAR, SUNDAY’S WELL 

Vikki’s in Sunday’s Well has a mouthwatering new Evening Tapas Menu designed to be enjoyed over a few glasses of excellent wine with friends. From Wednesday to Saturday you can nab a table in their pretty garden and tuck into an alfresco feast with wine.

Vikki’s is open for take-out and click and collect too (order online here) so you can organise a decadent charcuterie or cheese board and a few luscious desserts to enjoy at the end of a long week.

You can also place an order by phone on (021) 422 1729.