Rockwell Hotel School was world renowned for training and turned out some of Ireland’s best chefs and waiters, many of whom work in top restaurants around the world today. It began in 1958 under the auspices of Bord Failte Eireann and was run by Mr. Jimmy Kelly. Well-known past pupils include Martin Shanahan, TV chef and proprietor of Fishy Fishy in Kinsale Cork, Eugene McSweeney, a well-known industry consultant who resides in Kilkenny, Ed Cooney, Executive Chef at the 5* Merrion Hotel, Steven McNally, Deputy CEO at the Dalata Hotel Group and President of the Irish Hotels Federation.
Noel Cunningham, Media personality and General Manager at Harvey’s Point, Paul Carty, MD at Diageo and Chair of Irish Tourism Confederation (ITIC). Two famous waiters include, Sean Davoren, lately seen on the James Cordon late late show also head Butler at the Savoy hotel in London who also trains the Queens butlers and Michael Lynch, who has been in Claridge’s hotel since '78, and also starred in the BBC production of " Inside Claridge’s" in 2012.
Mr. Pat Cronin, who was one of the first students and the last Manager of the Catering School after being at the helm for almost 15 years, said, “Rockwell had a major influence on traditional cooking and service over its 25 year history the hotel and catering industry in Ireland, and it’s legacy is still lives on as past pupils continue to make a major impact on the National and global Hospitality business. It is a sadder place without the Rockwell student”.
Pat added, “This year’s get-together will be the best yet and we expect in excess of 180 past pupils. Everyone is assured of a great night with excellent food exceeding expectations of those working in the industry.”
Former pupils will be travelling from all over Ireland and further afield for the event – one chef Padraig Molloy is even coming in from Antarctica. The evening, which is in aid of local charity, will commence with mass at 7pm in the hotel, followed by a drink’s reception, 4 course dinner and music to follow.
The organisers also looking for more old photos or memorabilia of Rockwell, as one of their famous past students, Mr. Rory Morahan, the Druid Chef, is putting together a collection for all to see on the night. If you have memorabilia, would like more details on the event, or you would just like to reconnect with old Rockwell friends, see the Rockwell Hotel School Facebook page, or contact rockwellhotelschool@gmail.com.
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