Café & Bistro for Dunamaise Arts Centre

Award-winning chef Sorin will open the new Fort Café & Bistro at Dunamaise Arts Centre on 17 July, bringing a new café-bistro to the heart of Portlaoise.

After years working in kitchens across Ireland and Europe, Sorin is returning home to launch the new venture in the town’s main creative and cultural centre. Speaking ahead of the opening, Chef Sorin said:

“Laois has fantastic growers, farmers and food producers, and I want The Fort Café & Bistro to reflect that. My approach is to start with the best local ingredients, treat them with respect, and serve food that is fresh, generous, and full of flavour. We want people to taste the care that has gone into every plate.” The opening marks a new chapter for Dunamaise Arts Centre, with the café intended to become a lively meeting place throughout the day as well as a welcoming space before and after performances, screenings, exhibitions and events.

Ciara, CEO of Dunamaise Arts Centre, said the arrival of The Fort Café & Bistro is an important addition to the building and to the wider town centre. 

“We’re delighted to welcome Sorin to Dunamaise Arts Centre. A good café changes how people use a building, it gives them a reason to come in, stay longer, meet people and feel part of the place and that matters to us. Dunamaise is a place for artists and audiences, but it is also here for the everyday life of Portlaoise. The Fort Café & Bistro will bring a sense of welcome to the building, and we’re very excited to see it open.” 

The Fort Café & Bistro opens at Dunamaise Arts Centre, Church Street, Portlaoise, on 17 July