Welcome New Letterkenny Chamber Member No.9 Market Square
We recently had the pleasure of meeting up with Restaurateur/Owner Brian McMonagle (pictured) ahead of the Christmas rush.
Arriving at No.9 in the heart of town, we were greeted first by Brian’s new signage (insert photo) which reads ‘Bia maith agus fíon den scoth a chruthaíonn an comhluadar is fearr’ meaning ‘good food and great wine make the best company’ a nod to the identity and authenticity consistent throughout No.9. Inside the front door hangs artwork by the talented Shannon Boyle, exhibited beautifully. Further testament to Brian’s vision for No.9 to be a place that celebrates Donegal, Letterkenny and all the locality and the people have to offer!
Brian McMonagle has been in the food industry for almost 30 years, having spent a large amount of time in Galway and later Tyrone, building skill and expertise in the hospitality sector and gaining a multitude of awards for his contribution to the Irish Food Industry. Hotel and Catering Gold Medal, Best Restaurant Ireland, Georgina Campell, Best Seafood Restaurant (for O’Grady’s on the Pier, Bearna – Galway) In Tyrone Brian continued to be recognised with awards including but not limited to – Best Gastro Pub Ireland, Best Chef Tyrone for eight consecutive years, Ulster Tatler Chef of the Year (related to The Brewers House Tyrone)No.9 are already multi award winning in their first year, recent Gradaim award winners, and received highly commended at the 2024 Letterkenny Chamber Awards in the Gnó le Gaeilge category.
Brian has brought this experience, graft and ambition to Letterkenny this year – employing 8 staff and counting who Brian has complimented in their dedication to creating such a warm and welcoming environment. No.9 offers connection and craic alongside its delicious menu and atmospheric surroundings. Brian mentioned what a privilege it is, to have secured such an iconic building for No.9 – where he has created a space to truly celebrate Donegal heritage.
You need look no further than the innovative menu to see No.9’s commitment to Donegal – with 10 local suppliers featuring on it – Brian endeavours to build on this and actively promote his suppliers through the offering. Guests can enjoy the unique tastes of Donegal through – Kombucha Na Dálaigh, Albatross Seafood, McConnells Meat, Doherty Roe Fruit and Veg, New Kid Coffee, Ulster Mead Co, McLoone Family Honey, The Grow House, Little Mamas, Crolly Distillery and Family Farm. Creating a brilliant sense of place and showcasing support for local producers.
Brian has been humbled by the support for No.9 since opening, noting that the town and county are very supportive of his venture, and he appreciates seeing every familiar and new face coming through the doors of No.9 to enjoy the ambiance and good food – the genuine Donegal package.
