Historic First: English Market to Host Exclusive Dining Experience Around Iconic Fountain

Cork's English Market will make history this August when its ground floor transforms into an elegant dining room for the first time in its 237-year existence. Three of the city's most celebrated chefs will collaborate around the market's famous fountain for an evening that promises to showcase the very best of Cork's culinary heritage.

Supper by the Fountain takes place on Saturday, 16th August at 7pm, bringing together Pamela Kelly of Farmgate Café, Aishling Moore of Goldie, and Harrison Sharpe of Elbow Lane for a specially designed multi-course menu celebrating the market's exceptional local produce.

Guests will be seated around the Market's iconic fountain, with each course paired by local wine specialists Bubble Brothers, who are also based within the historic venue. The evening begins with a drinks reception sponsored by Rebel City Distillery and Elbow Lane, accompanied by live music.

Aishling Moore, known for her sustainable gill-to-fin philosophy at Goldie, said:

"I grew up shopping in the Market with my parents, now I'm sourcing ingredients here as a chef. It's such a joy to celebrate its producers in this way, surrounded by their stalls, and to cook alongside two chefs that I really admire."

Pamela Kelly added: "

The English Market is more than a building, it's a living, breathing part of Cork City. This event brings people closer to the food, the place, and the people who make it special every day."

Harrison Sharpe of Elbow Lane shared his excitement about the collaboration:

"We're three different chefs with different styles, but that's what makes this such a brilliant opportunity. We all share the same respect for ingredients, and the English Market is full of inspiration. I think guests are in for a really memorable night."

The English Market, dating back to 1788, stands as one of Europe's oldest covered markets. Having survived famine, flood, fire and war, it remains central to Cork's cultural and culinary identity, serving as a vital meeting point for traders, chefs, and food enthusiasts.

Tickets are priced at €128 plus booking fee and go on sale this Monday, 16th June at 9am via Eventbrite or www.corkonaforkfest.ie. With limited seating and high anticipation, organisers expect the event to sell out quickly.

The dinner forms part of Cork on a Fork Fest, running from 13th to 17th August. Now in its fourth year, the festival has become a highlight of Cork's summer calendar, featuring over 100 events including pop-up dining experiences, chef collaborations, street feasts, food trails, cooking demonstrations, foraging walks, and family activities.