Tired of staring at the same four walls while you whip up dinner?

Fear not, fellow sizzle enthusiast, for barbecue season is upon us – and it’s time to ditch the kitchen.

Forget the usual burger and sausage rut (though, hey, no judgement – they’re classics for a reason). This year, you can become the undisputed BBQ King/Queen (without breaking a sweat) with a little help from Cork’s famous English Market.

Here’s the magic trick: grab a big bag and head straight to the market’s treasure trove of artisan goodies. Not only will you find top-notch ingredients, but the friendly stallholders are basically BBQ wizards in disguise, ready to answer your questions and turn you into a grilling champion.

It’s a busy, daunting spot, so hit these spots first: 

Calling all Meat Lovers:

• O’Mahony Butchers: Dry-aged steaks or unique options like Beamish & Bandon Vale Beef Burgers.
• Tom Durcan Meats: Finest quality local meats, from dry-aged Irish beef to fresh sausages.
• O’Sullivan’s Poultry & Game: Marinated chicken, skewers, wings, and even kangaroo (if you’re feeling adventurous!).
• Tom Bradley Bacon & Pork: BBQ Chilli & Coriander marinated baby back ribs – drool-worthy!
• O Flynn’s Gourmet Sausage Company: Some new exciting flavours are launching just in time for barbecue season (hello smoked pork sausage) and their gourmet Pork & Beef Burgers and Meatballs are a mainstay. Try the turkey version too.

Veggie? We Got You:

• My Goodness: Kimchi Ketchup and Oakey Smokey Tex Mex Chipotle Salsa – tangy, sweet, and perfectly spicy. Pick up some monster mushrooms to stack in a burger with some crunchy veggies.
• Terra Ignis: Their Worcestershire sauce is made with their own wildcrafted vinegar, sapphire and spices, while their Oak Bark Fermented Ketchup is fermented with Irish wildflowers and infused with charred oak bark – both are vegan, gluten-free and allergen-free. Their popular Fermented Hot Sause is lacto fermented with only four ingredients: chillis, garlic, olive oil and salt, and makes for the perfect dip.

Beyond the Bun:

• On The Pig’s Back: Award-winning pates, terrines, and cheese and charcuterie platters for an epic spread.
• Real Olive Co.: Do not leave without a huge tub of their Whipped Feta Cheese Dip and fresh pesto.
• Hederman’s Smoke House: Hot smoked salmon, mackerel, and an array of homemade pates and salads.
• Pie Guys: Barbecue pulled pork pie in all-butter puff pastry – need we say more?
• The Chocolate Shop: Elevate your BBQ with dark chocolate in sauces, milk chocolate glazes, or a decadent dessert.

Looking for sides and sweet treats? The English Market has it all, from fresh fish to cakes and flowers. It’s open 8am-6pm, Monday to Saturday (closed on Sundays and Bank Holidays).