Our Story

Bronagh McCormick

Bronagh currently resides in Holywood, Co. Down, with her husband Paul McCormick. Originally, she is from Dromara, Co. Down where she grew up on a farm just outside the village. Here she learnt the importance of family and hard work. Working for her older sister in O’Reilly’s restaurant for a summer, she quickly realised that this was the career path for her.

 

After completing a degree in Hospitality Management at the University of Ulster, and awarded Hospitality Student of the Year, Bronagh moved to England to work in The Cotswold House Hotel. After some time, she then moved to France where she travelled and worked in vineyards, to further understand the art of wine making.

 

Returning to Northern Ireland, Bronagh joined the Deanes Restaurant Group, where she became General Manager and overseen all seven restaurants, one of which was awarded a Michelin Star during her time there. After 13 years working for Michael Deane, Bronagh decided to pursue her dream of having her own restaurant and venture out with one of her prestigious colleagues and close friend, Michelin Starred Chef Alex Greene.

Alex Greene

Alex Greene

Alex Greene is a talented chef hailing from Dundrum in the Mourne country, Northern Ireland. He began his culinary career at the tender age of 11 when he took up a summer job pot washing and preparing vegetables in the local gastro pub, The Bucks Head, in Dundrum. By the age of 16 he was running the kitchen. He left school after achieving his GCSEs and attended culinary school at SRC Newry while starting at the renowned Michelin Starred Deanes Restaurant in Belfast.

 

After gaining valuable experience there, he ventured to London, where he honed his skills at prestigious establishments such as Petrus by Gordon Ramsay and Claridge’s by Gordon Ramsay. He then travelled and worked throughout Asia, New Zealand and Australia. Subsequently, Alex returned to Ireland, joining the Michelin Starred Cliff House in Ardmore, further enhancing his culinary expertise. His commitment to using the freshest and most seasonal ingredients in his dishes is a hallmark of his cooking style.

 

He then returned to work for Michael Deane at Deanes EIPIC, where he has retained the Michelin Star till present.

 

Alex’s culinary talents have earned him recognition on television. He is well known for his appearances on the BBC TV series, Great British Menu. Remarkably, in both 2019 and 2020, he secured a spot at the banquet, an achievement that marked a first for any chef from Northern Ireland. During these competitions, he showcased his culinary prowess by preparing two courses at each banquet.

 

More recently, Alex appeared on another popular BBC show called B&B by the Sea. Where fifteen celebrities got to experience Northern Ireland’s exquisite local produce and flavours, showcased in stunning dishes; which further solidified his reputation as a talented and innovative chef.

 

In 2019, Alex took the initiative to open a new retail establishment called Fish & Farm, which is conveniently located in Newcastle, Co. Down. This venture reflects his passion for cooking and his desire to continue serving delicious food to enjoy at home. Fish & Farm is a unique establishment that offers a variety of locally sourced products, including fresh fish, luxury meats and cheese.

 

He has more recently started farming his own beef, in the pursuit of meat that delivers both in flavour and tenderness. This endeavour reflects his dedication to his craft and his support towards sustainability.

 

Throughout all his successes he has always dreamed of owning his own restaurant, now, together with his long-term friend and colleague, Bronagh McCormick, they are set to launch their new business venture in 2024.