Talented Dublin chef to open restaurant in Co Wexford town

Bearú (Gaelic for The Barrow), will open at the former Sugar & Spice premises opposite Brennan’s Lane, which is currently being developed as an urban community space.

Chef Dave Rowley is currently fitting out the premises, where he plans to have up to 30 seated. The restaurant will serve gourmet breakfasts and lunches during the day from Wednesdays to Saturdays, and fine dining meals on Friday and Saturday nights.

Living in The Rower with his wife Siobhan, Rowley previously worked the Dublin food scene, including at celebrated restaurants and cafes, as a head chef.

Inspired by the Barrow, which runs alongside his house, Rowley said he has wanted to open a restaurant or cafe in New Ross ever since the family moved to the area in 2020, just prior to the pandemic beginning.

The father-of-two worked at Dali’s in Blackrock and at Juniors Deli & Cafe, close to Google Docks, as well as other restaurants including One Pico.

“This is a new departure. It’s just about backing yourself and taking that next step. I have been working hard for other people but at some stage I always knew I wanted to do something like this; to work for myself.”

He is currently looking through CVs for manager and waiting roles and people can contact him via Instagram on the Bearú account.

“It’s a key position for what we want to do. I launched the restaurant on my Instagram and we’ve had a tremendous response and support from people who have wished us well, and many have sent their CV. It really blew me away how welcoming people have been to me. We really want to make sure we have a skilled manager and staff in place. I’ll be doing what I know, cooking.”

Rowley will do baking and plans to link in with an artisan local baker also. He plans to stock excellent coffee and to offer a choice of dine-in options throughout the door.

“I’ll be using high quality ingredients and we’ll have specials and soups sandwiches, breakfast options. On Friday and Saturday night Bearú will be open at night offering contemporary dining in a relaxed setting, with lovely wines. I’ve always enjoyed cooking seafood so that will feature strongly on the menu. I believe there is room for something like this in New Ross.”

He said when the premises came up for rent, he jumped on the opportunity. He hopes to be able to open in mid to late July.