Here at OnTheQT we pride ourselves in picking out the real gems before anyone else has heard of them. We recently decided to try out the brand new BBQ smokehouse which has opened at the Mardyke complex. Without a doubt this restaurant is sure to be a roaring success as the renowned master chef and pitmaster John Relihan shares his exquisite culinary and BBQ skills with the people of Cork!
The 88 seater BBQ smokehouse restaurant (with its own entrance on Little Hanover Street) is an expansion to the already existing Porter House and Woolshed Baa & Grill at the Mardyke Complex. With a boutique bowling alley and pool hall also at the complex… it is rapidly becoming the trendiest spot in town! The Holy Smoke is housed within the old wine cellars of the property, where the vaulted ceilings of the original building combined with the retro décor, and a trendy lighting style work excellently together to create an chic urban, yet relaxed vibe.
In the kitchen you’ll find the Kerry born ‘pitmaster’ John Relihan working his magic. He was lured back from London where he worked as head chef at Jamie Oliver’s Barbecoa BBQ restaurant, and trained with world renowned Pitmaster Adam Perry Lang – its no wonder the food tastes so good!
We were delighted to hear that John only buys locally sourced meats which are cooked ‘low and slow’ (often up to 16 hours) over wood and charcoal made from 100% sustainable woodlands! He also uses different combinations of hazel, ash, maple and cherry woods to compliment the flavour profiles of his dishes. Rubs, marinades and sauces for the ribs and prime cuts and are also all made in-house – sounds like he’s a pretty busy guy!
Although a tough decision choosing from the different menu options, we opted for the smoky ribs… even the thought of them still make my mouth water! As soon as I took a bite there was an explosion of flavours in my mouth, the meat was tender, yet juicy with a distinctive BBQ taste… it was simply a wonderful dining experience! The great news is that vegetarians are also catered for at the smokehouse. With a vast range of craft beer and a creative cocktail menu to complete the offering, the ‘Holy Smoke’ has a bright future ahead!
Opening Hours: Wednesday/Thursday, 5pm to 10.30pm; Friday, 5pm to 11.30pm; Saturday, 4pm to 11.30pm; Sunday, 4pm to 10pm
Bon Appetit! x
