I am just back from a weekend in Limerick.   I was participating in a rowing tour, which included coming through Ardnacrusha lock in a tour rowing boat and rowing a total of 20 odd miles from Lough Derg right into the heart of Limerick.  A great adventure was had, but I couldn't leave Limerick without visiting the Milk Market and Ponaire's Roastery and Coffee Bar.  

Tommy and Jennifer Ryan started up Ponaire Roastery in 2006 when they returned to Ireland after living in the USA for many years.   They produce wonderful coffee from the finest grade beans.  Nothing is added to the green beans they import except heat!   The picture shows Jennifer checking a batch of beans at the roaster based in Annacotty, Co Limerick.  Last June they opened a new coffee bar in Limerick Milk Market.  The market has been re-developed, with a central courtyard covered with what I would describe as a circus style permanent canvas roof (I am sure there is a more technical name!) to create an all-weather space.  There are permanent pavilion style units at the centre of the courtyard, one of which is Ponaire's Coffee Bar, open space for market stalls, and further shop units in the building surrounding the courtyard.   Have a look at www.milkmarketlimerick.ie.   It is open Friday to Sunday and well worth a visit.  Excellent coffee was consumed, and there was a bit of excitement when Paul O'Connell was spotted at one of the tables.

When we opened our coffee bar two years ago we decided to use Ponaire's coffee as our coffee of choice.   Customers have been delighted with the quality and flavour of the coffee and we now sell a wide range of their coffees, both beans and ground.  Tommy and Jennifer have become good friends of McCambridge's and we wish them well with the new extension to their business.