Merry's Gastro Pub in Dungarvan has been named as the Best Gastro Pub in Waterford at the Munster Restaurant Awards.

Sixteen Deise eateries were honoured at last night's awards which were held in the Radisson Blu Hotel in Cork.

Owner of Merry's, Emilene Stafford was delighted that her pub was chosen to move on to the regional awards.

She says recognition from the public is always a wonderful thing.

The Tannery in Dungarvan has also been named Waterford's Best Restaurant for 2022.

Emilene spoke to Jordan Norris in Merry's today following last night's win - where she spoke of the reasons behind success, the local feel of Dungarvan's venues and the ever-changing landscape of the Irish traditional pub.

"You can't stand still. You can't stay in the same position. You just need to move with the times. We do this but stay true to who and what we are. If I had neon lights and a DJ boombox in the middle of Merry's - I don't think it would be the same pub! You just hope that you can always do enough to keep people coming back through the door."

To listen to the full interview with Emilene Stafford, click the play button on the photo above.