Written by 
The granddaughter of the founder of one of Cork’s most infamous family-run stalls in Cork’s English Market has announced her expansion plans to keep up with the “changing times.”
K O’Connell’s fish stall has now opened ‘Kay’s Kitchen,’ a new takeaway café directly across from the original location.
The venture will be undertaken by Emma O’Connell, granddaughter of the stall’s founder, Kathleen ‘Kay’ O’Connell, who hopes to bring “fresh life” to the business with a modern twist.
The new café will offer a range of light bites, takeaways, and ready-made lunches priced from €5-€10, sourced directly from K O’Connell’s local suppliers.
The kitchen will be led by chefs Martina Cronin and Darren Connolly, both of whom are well-versed in the culinary field.
Both chefs will undertake a new culinary venture, crafting fresh seafood dishes, including chowders, and presenting a unique take on fish and chips for the people of Cork.
Customers can also enjoy a special service where they can request to have their fresh fish prepared on the spot.
The expansion highlights the O’Connell family’s dedication to “serving Cork with top-quality seafood.”
The original fish stall made headlines back in 2011 when Britain’s late Queen Elizabeth stopped in the English Market, with a memorable photo of her laughing with Pat O’Connell of K O’Connell Fish Merchants.
Emma O’Connell, a third-generation member of the O’Connell stall, said, “K O’Connell’s is in my blood, and I’m incredibly proud to carry on my family’s legacy. Being part of such a beloved establishment is an honour, and I’m deeply thankful for the support we have received over the years.”
Ms O’Connell said the changing times inspired the decision to open this café, to allow everyone to enjoy “fresh, quality food even on busy days.”
“Now, we can prepare and cook anything our customers need, and it’s all thanks to the dedication and talent of our amazing chefs.”