Michelin-starred chef brings five decades of culinary excellence ahead of November opening
Dillon’s Rathangan is proud to announce that one of Ireland’s most celebrated chefs, Derry Clarke, has been appointed Culinary Director, bringing his exceptional culinary expertise and passion for Irish produce to one of the country’s most anticipated hospitality openings this November.
A Michelin-Starred Legacy in Irish Cuisine
A household name in Irish food, Derry Clarke is the former chef-patron of the acclaimed Michelin-starred L’Ecrivain, which held its Michelin Star for almost two decades following its award in 2003. Over a career spanning more than 50 years, Clarke has become renowned for combining classical French technique with the very best seasonal Irish ingredients, championing local producers, simplicity, and exceptional flavour. Alongside his acclaimed restaurant career, he is a bestselling cookbook author and familiar television personality, admired for making great food both approachable and memorable.
As Culinary Director at Dillon’s, Clarke will oversee the culinary vision of the new destination, working alongside well known local Head Chef John Kavanagh – creating menus inspired by the seasons, celebrating Irish artisan producers, and delivering a dining experience rooted in quality, authenticity and warm hospitality.
Speaking about the announcement, Shane Ryan, owner of Dillon’s Rathangan, said:
“Having someone of Derry’s calibre leading our kitchen is an incredible milestone for Dillon’s. His passion for outstanding Irish ingredients, his respect for producers, and his belief that food should be simple, honest and memorable perfectly reflects everything we want Dillon’s to be. This is about creating an experience people will travel for while remaining firmly rooted in the heart of Rathangan.”
Restoring a Rathangan Landmark
For almost 30 years, Shane Ryan has proudly served the people of Rathangan through his pharmacy, building a reputation founded on trust, quality and exceptional customer care. Those same values now form the foundation of Dillon’s.
In 2018, Shane acquired the historic Dillon’s building with a vision to carefully restore one of Rathangan’s most treasured landmarks. Working alongside a conservation architect, every element of the restoration has been thoughtfully considered to honour a building and business that has been woven into the fabric of the town for almost 300 years.
Driven by a lifelong passion for retail, hospitality and creating memorable customer experiences, Shane, along with a dedicated team are in the process of curating a destination unlike anything else in the region. Dillon’s will bring together exceptional food, artisan produce, locally sourced ingredients, timeless art, antiques and beautifully selected gifts under one historic roof.
A Destination Built Around Irish Craft and Quality
Supporting Irish makers has always been central to Shane’s vision. Head of Retail, Sarah Donnelly has worked with Shane for over 16 years and brings a keen eye for detail along with exceptional management and team leadership skills.
Through previous affiliation with the Craft Council of Ireland, Shane developed a deep appreciation for Irish craftsmanship and independent producers, an ethos that continues throughout Dillon’s. Inspired by the belief that food can be your medicine, every supplier, product and partnership has been chosen with care, integrity and a commitment to quality.
The appointment of Derry Clarke marks another significant step in bringing that vision to life.
More than a restaurant, more than a café, and far more than a retail space, Dillon’s Rathangan has been designed as a destination.
Dillon’s Rathangan opens November 2026.
For more information and to keep up to date on progress follow @Dillons_Rathangan on Instagram
