My Weekend: 'If I want to clear my head, I’ll head up Patrick’s Hill'

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your work:

I’m Robert Barrett, co-founder and master distiller of Rebel City Distillery, Cork’s first distillery in over half a century. I’m a Cork native, and after living and working in places like Canada, Leitrim, and Dundalk, I’m thrilled to have Cork as home again. I hold a master’s degree in biochemistry, and distilling and brewing became a natural extension of my ion for science and craftsmanship. Along with my wife, Bhagya Barrett, we’ve built Rebel City Distillery into something we’re really proud of. The journey has been incredible — blending my scientific background with the artistry of distilling has been a dream come true. It’s been amazing to see how the craft spirits scene has evolved here in Cork, and I’m excited to be part of that growth.

At the heart of everything I do, I’m driven by a deep love of quality spirits and an ongoing curiosity about perfecting the craft. I feel incredibly fortunate to work every day doing something I truly enjoy and can pour so much of myself into.

What is your ideal way to spend a Friday night?

After a full week at the Rebel City Distillery, I enjoy something low-key — usually feet up at home with a good drink, Maharani gin, and some documentary or my favourite shows ... That said, a night out in town with my wife, friends, or family isn’t off the cards either — depends on the mood.

Lie-ins or up with the lark ... which is it for you?

Oh, I’m definitely a lie-in person when I get the chance. There’s nothing better than a slow, quiet morning — no rush, no alarm blaring. I find that giving myself that bit of extra rest actually helps me think more clearly. Some of my best ideas come when I’m just lying there, letting the day unfold.

Does work creep into your weekend at all?

I try to keep a line between work and home, but I’ll it, it does creep in sometimes. When you love what you do, it’s hard to fully switch off. I might find myself reading about new techniques, tinkering with ideas, or just thinking through a recipe. It’s part of the rhythm of my life, though I do make an effort to carve out proper down-time too.

If money was no object, where would you head to on a weekend city break? And who would you bring with you?

I’d head to Kyoto — something about the precision, history, and craftsmanship of Japan speaks to me. I’d bring my wife Bhagya along with me, we love exploring new cultures together.

Closer to home, is there some place you like to head to recharge the batteries?

I love a good stroll around Cork city or out along the greenway. But if I really want to clear my head, I’ll head up Patrick’s Hill. The views up there are unreal — and it’s one of those spots where you can just sit, take it all in, and watch the city go about its day.

Do you like to catch up with family/friends at the weekend?

For sure. Weekends are all about spending quality time with family and friends — whether it’s a planned get-together or just a casual pop-in. Good company and a bit of chat are what make the weekend feel complete.

Do you get to indulge any hobbies? Even as a spectator?

One of my biggest hobbies is reading. I’ve set myself the goal of reading 25 books this year, and I’m currently on book 14. I switch between fiction and non-fiction, and it really helps me stay grounded and calm. There’s nothing quite like getting lost in a good book.

Entertain or be entertained? If it’s the latter, do you have a signature dish?

A bit of both. I love having people over and cooking for them. My go-to dish? Probably slow-roasted lamb with plenty of fresh herbs. And, of course, it’s always served with a Maharani gin and tonic to complement the meal.

We have so many places to eat out in Cork — where are your go-to spots for coffee/ lunch/ special meal?

For coffee, I always go to Alchemy. For lunch, Good Day Deli is a favourite. When it’s time for a special meal, I love Paradiso, but Glass Curtain, Jacques, Elbow Lane, and Goldie are also top spots. They all have great food with real thought and care behind it.

Sunday night comes around too fast ... how do you normally spend it?

I usually take it easy on Sunday night. A bit of reading or maybe a film to wind down. It’s all about slowing down, shifting gears, and setting a positive tone for the week ahead.

What time does your alarm clock go off on Monday morning?

8:00am. I start the day with a good cup of coffee and a bit of reading before heading to work at Rebel City Distillery. It helps ease me into the week.

Rebel City Distillery will Irish food and drink producers appearing at the Food Village and Bloom Inn at this year’s Bord Bia Bloom, which returns to its home in the Phoenix Park, Dublin from Thursday, May 29, to Monday, June 2. See bordbiabloom.com.