Good Food Ireland® Approved Since 2022
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Overview
The English Market is a step backwards into the real hustle and bustle of a busy market. Turn a corner and there is K O’Connell’s Fish Merchant’s counter. Neptune himself might be seen doing a spot of shopping here as it was fit for the British Queen herself during her trip to Ireland and the English Market. Pat and Paul O’Connell are two brothers who took over their mother Kay’s fish stall in the iconic English Market. It’s a business that has earned its stripes having been a cornerstone of the food business in the English Market and indeed Cork itself for years.Fish Merchants
K O’Connell’s has a passionate reputation for the best of Irish fish and they have loyal suppliers in different ports along the Irish coasts but especially Castletownbere. Kay herself struck up this trusted relationship during the 1960s and so it has lasted the test of time for Pat and Paul’s business. Kay would hitch the trailer to the car and go in search of something to sell that was a bit different and fresher… today this is called Innovation.
K O’Connell’s is known for quality and that comes with reputation and consistency. The pricing is reflective of the quality and the value is always about having no waste.
There is a clear emphasis on quality and top-class visual display that cannot fail to impress. This business is a showcase for fresh fish and would give anyone confidence to buy nothing but the freshest product before your eyes. The display counter is mind-blowing compact with ice and the cleanliness is exceptional, you need to give time to this work of art – a Master Class in Irish Fish In Season.
The entire team are eager to serve and answer questions – a throwback to a time when shopping was an interactive experience and has a touch of class when a person makes eye contact and smiles… “Can I help you?” The team are up on a higher level easily able to reach forward and take the sparkling jewel you point at as your treasure.
K O’Connell’s is a well-oiled machine – the team are educated and enthusiastic and is there to inform and support customers who rock up to the counter looking for something tasty for their fish supper.
The long vibrant blue mosaic wall gives the impression of being underwater and the whole stall is nothing less than a journey into the world of marine life.
K O’Connell’s in the English Market will help people make friends with fish and give a new depth to the choices that can be made.
There is absolute pride here and the vibration is tangible regarding customer satisfaction.
The product range depends on what the weather is like and what season it is…
While chatting with Pat he mentioned that he has as much satisfaction selling fresh mackerel as black sole – diversity is key he explains. There should be no excuse for fish snobbery. He beams about Brill, Turbot or a tasty Monkfish Green Curry.
A trip to K O’Connell’s is an occasion as you do the rest of the fresh food shop in the other stalls.
Sustainability
Irish Fish is the Hero in K O’Connell’s. Much of the product sold on the stall has been landed at Castletownbere in West Cork along with other ports around Ireland.
This is a successful generational family business.
Irish fish needs to be put on more household menus and a trip here will make this a culinary adventure. Pat and Paul are keen promotors of Ireland’s fishing industry and happily share their knowledge of seasonality and sustainability with visitors to their stall.
The business can wrap, pack and label a freezer quantity for home use.
Nearby Experiences
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