Ardee’s Conor Halpenny Takes on Key Euro-Toques Role as Square Restaurant Expands
Ardee News and Sport – Ardee’s Conor Halpenny Takes on Key Euro-Toques Role as Square Restaurant Expands
Acclaimed Ardee chef Conor Halpenny has been appointed to a prestigious leadership role within Euro-Toques Ireland, as he also prepares for an exciting expansion of his award-winning restaurant, Square, in Dundalk.
Halpenny’s connection with Euro-Toques, a community dedicated to preserving Ireland’s culinary heritage, began in 2015 when he competed in the Young Chef of the Year competition. He went on to win the coveted title in 2017 and has since played an influential role in promoting Irish produce and small-scale food producers.
Announcing his new position as Commissioner General, Euro-Toques Ireland praised his commitment:
“Conor has been an integral part of the Euro-Toques community since 2015. Passionate about Irish produce and heritage, he has played a key role in shaping our community, leading the Food Council for the past two years. With a deep understanding of our mission and values, Conor is proud to represent Euro-Toques Ireland and steer it into the future. We’re thrilled to have him in this role and look forward to an exciting chapter ahead!”
Reflecting on his journey, Conor emphasised the importance of supporting local food traditions.
“Euro-Toques is a community of chefs and producers striving to preserve the culinary heritage of Ireland by using local seasonal produce and supporting local producers,” he said.
In addition to his new role, Halpenny is also preparing for a significant expansion at Square Restaurant.
“We are six years old in May, and we are expanding. We got the opportunity to get the unit next door and will be going into that. It’s the next chapter for the restaurant, and it’s very exciting,” he said.
While work continues on the expansion, the restaurant remains open as usual, with customers assured that the quality and favourite dishes—like their signature crisps—will remain a staple of the menu.
With his growing influence in Ireland’s food scene and the evolution of his restaurant, 2025 is shaping up to be a milestone year for Chef Halpenny and Square.
