Best Specialist Shop
WINNER: Pen Corner
The black and gold lettering of the Pen Corner is one of the capital's most distinctive shop fronts. In situ since 1927, the landmark premises on the corner of Dame Street and Trinity Street was opened by Mr. P O'Brien from Drumcondra and remains a family business today . O'Brien's grand nephew, John Fitzgerald, is now behind the counter.
The shop has garnered quite a celebrity following. Silver screen icons Cary Grant, James Cagney and Grace Kelly have all crossed its threshold. So have artists Elvis Costello and the late Kurt Cobain and writers Seamus Heaney, John Banville and Brian Friel.
"Our customers feel their handwriting is their identity," says Pat Martin, who has worked in the shop for more than 50 years. "There's nothing like a hand-written note and there is a renewed interest in handwriting and writing instruments."
One reader describes it as: "A delightful shop with excellent customer service and wonderful staff. It is a throwback to a time when everything wasn't disposable and is, hopefully, a portent of a more sustainable future."
Judge, Robert Doherty of AIB Merchant Services, loves the fact that the premises hasn't walked away from the art of writing. "It is a great place to buy a gift, even a gift for yourself because of its commitment to service. It has stuck at what it is good at. It has stood up to the competition and said to the customer, we will look after you, and it works."
The Pen Corner, 12 College Green, Dublin 2 01-679 3641
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Sheridan’s Cheese, 11 Sth Anne St, Dublin 2 01-679 3143
,
[ sheridanscheesemongers.comOpens in new window ]
“In the independent sector food is now a big part of the retail firmament and Sheridans Cheesemongers understand this,” says Simon Pratt, MD of Avoca. “It can take its place with similar offers anywhere in the world.”