Tom Comerford’s appointment as Executive Head Chef of Hunters Yard coincided with the world-renowned Mount Juliet Estate in Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny winning two prestigious accolades at the 2025 Irish Hotel Awards.
On what was a memorable night for the Mount Juliet Estate team at The Johnstown Estate Hotel in Enfield, Co. Meath on October 20 last, Hunter’s Yard Hotel was named the 5-star Hotel of the Year, while The Hound at Hunters Lodge was honoured with the Hotel Restaurant of the Year award for Leinster.
The evening marked a powerful tribute to Ireland’s most inspiring hospitality professionals – those who elevate guest experiences with quiet brilliance and unwavering dedication. This year’s ceremony honoured a diverse spectrum of contributors, from visionary general managers and culinary innovators to devoted housekeeping teams and front-of house stars.
The Hotel Restaurant of the Year award was especially satisfying for Tom Comerford, who was appointed Executive Head Chef of Hunters Yard, home to The Hound – one of the estate’s celebrated dining destinations – in May. Tom brings over two decades of experience in some of the most renowned kitchens across Ireland and the UK.
He commenced his career at just 15 as a Commis Chef at The Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny before moving to London to train under the legendary Pierre Koffman at his three Michelin-starred restaurant, La Tante Claire. His impressive career includes the five-star Landmark Hotel, London (two Michelin stars, five AA Rosettes), Brocket Hall, Hertfordshire (where he earned and retained a Michelin star as Head Chef), and Midsummer House with Daniel Clifford (two Michelin stars, five AA Rosettes).
Tom also led Anthony’s Restaurant in Leeds, achieving a Michelin Rising Star and four AA Rosettes, and completed stages at Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester and Simon Rogan’s L’Enclume.
Most recently, Tom was Head Chef at Ballyfin Demesne, widely recognised as one of the finest hotels in the world. During his tenure, Ballyfin was awarded three Michelin Keys in the Michelin Hotel Guide and earned one Michelin star.
Mount Juliet Estate’s fine-dining restaurant, The Lady Helen, holds a Michelin star, retained under the leadership of Executive Head Chef John Kelly, and is regarded as one of Ireland’s leading culinary destinations. Tom’s appointment at Hunter’s Yard strengthens this position and reflects the estate’s continued commitment to excellence across all dining experiences.
“Mount Juliet Estate is a truly special place with an incredible culinary legacy,” he says.
“I’m delighted to be part of the team at Hunters Yard. My focus is on refined, ingredient-led cooking that feels rooted in Ireland’s seasons and surroundings.
“As a Castlecomer and Kilkenny man, it’s nice to come home. Mount Juliet Estate is somewhere I always wanted to work. It’s been very busy so far and winning the Irish Hotel Awards was an added bonus. They are no more than our amazing team deserve,” adds Tom, who is married to Luiza, and has two young daughters, Judy (eight) and Mia (six).
In welcoming Tom to the Mount Juliet Estate team, General Manager Mark Dunne said: “His talent, leadership and extensive Michelin-starred background will bring new energy to Hunters Yard, while complementing the exceptional standards already set across the estate. It’s a significant moment for Mount Juliet’s wider food story.”
From Michelin-starred opulence in the Lady Helen dining room to luxury indulgences at The Hound restaurant, Mount Juliet Estate offers up a veritable cornucopia of dining options. Whether you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion that will live long in the memory, unwind after a hard-fought victory out on the golf course, or simply enjoy a wide-ranging choice of premium breakfast choices, expect classic dishes executed with a creative flourish alongside entirely unexpected flavours for the more adventurous diner.
It all comes together in a way that could only be of Mount Juliet Estate, delivered with the most pristine service.
Set in 500 acres of Irish countryside and dating back to 1757, Mount Juliet Estate is one of Ireland’s leading country estates. On the estate, there are two residences, the historic Georgian Manor House and chic, sophisticated Hunters Yard. Both properties offer luxurious five-star accommodations. The 125-bedroom Co. Kilkenny estate is also home to the aforementioned Lady Helen and The Hound restaurants.
Mount Juliet Estate also boasts an 18-hole golf course which is among the world’s finest parkland courses and has played host to numerous unforgettable tournaments, including the 2021 Dubai Duty Free Irish Open.
Mount Juliet Estate retained its place in the esteemed Eminent Collection for 2025 following another year of delivering outstanding guest experiences. In addition, Food & Beverage Manager Eddie Devane was individually inducted into the Eminent Collection, joining the Estate and PGA Fellow Matt Sandercock, who previously received the honour. The Eminent Collection celebrates those who have demonstrated over five years of exceptional performance and dedication to guest service.
The awards highlight Mount Juliet Estate’s unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled golfing and hospitality experiences, further enhancing its reputation as one of the leading golf resorts worldwide.
Other facilities on the estate include a playground, walking trails, gardens, tennis courts, table tennis, swimming pool, gym, bike hire, fishing, falconry and archery. There is free WiFi throughout the property. The accommodations offer a 24-hour front desk and room service. All rooms include a desk, a TV and a private bathroom.
Another recent accolade won by Mount Juliet Estate was the Lifestyle Luxury Award 2025 for Best Luxury Resort in Ireland. This recognition celebrates the dedication of the estate’s team, its heritage and the memorable experiences created for every guest who visits.
“With the Manor House, which is at the heart of the estate, set for a major refurbishment and guest numbers increasing all the time, it’s an exciting time to be part of the Mount Juliet Estate team,” Tom concludes.
Mount Juliet Estate
Thomastown,
Co. Kilkenny.
Telephone: +353 (0)56 777 3000
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.mountjuliet.ie
This article was published in Hotel & Tourism Magazine, Spring 2026, Vol 2 No 1
