Master Chefs Wins Gold
Master Chefs wins gold for large scale catering at Dexcom Stadium, Home of Connacht Rugby
Master Chefs has been awarded the prestigious Gold Medal for Event Caterer of 100 Guests or More at the 2026 Gold Medal Catering Awards, recognising the company's outstanding delivery of catering and hospitality services at Dexcom Stadium, the home of Connacht Rugby.
The award celebrates Master Chefs' success in delivering large-scale event catering, hospitality and conference services at the stadium since commencing operations in January 2026. During the same awards ceremony, the company's organic Ellan Farm also received the Bronze Medal for Sustainability, recognising its continued commitment to responsible sourcing, organic food production and environmentally sustainable practices.
The Gold Medal marks another significant milestone for the Irish catering and hospitality company, which now manages one of Ireland's most diverse single venue catering operations.
Left to Right: Agnes Sokolowska of Master Chefs; Pat O’Sullivan, CEO of Master Chefs; John Randles of Master Chefs
Positioned as the West of Ireland's premier destination for conferences, exhibitions and major events, Dexcom Stadium can host gala dinners for up to 900 guests and conferences and large-scale events for as many as 5,000 delegates. Since January, Master Chefs has delivered catering across match days, corporate hospitality, conferences, business events and public food service, demonstrating its ability to operate complex, high-volume foodservice environments while maintaining exceptional quality and service standards.
Commenting on the award, Pat O'Sullivan, CEO of Master Chefs, said:
"Winning Gold for large-scale Event Caterer of the Year is an incredibly proud achievement for our entire team. To receive this recognition within our first six months of operating at Dexcom Stadium reflects the dedication, professionalism and passion shown every day by our colleagues, as well as the fantastic partnership we have built with the team at Dexcom Stadium and Connacht Rugby.
This award demonstrates what can be achieved through collaboration, operational excellence and a shared commitment to delivering memorable experiences for every guest who walks through our doors."
Philip Patterson, Head of Commercial & Marketing at Connacht Rugby, said:
"When we first established our partnership with Master Chefs 2 years ago, our collective goal was to elevate our match-day and MICE offerings at a redeveloped Dexcom Stadium to a world-class standard, befitting of our new home. This award is a testament to Master Chef's exceptional work since we opened our doors 6 months ago, which has been driven by their constant commitment to excellence and passion.
On behalf of all at Connacht Rugby, we would like to congratulate Master Chefs on this richly deserved accolade. We look forward to continuing to work together to provide best-in-class services to everyone who walks through the doors of Dexcom Stadium."
The dual success at the 2026 Gold Medal Catering Awards further reinforces Master Chefs' position as one of Ireland's leading catering and hospitality providers, combining operational excellence with a long standing commitment to sustainability through initiatives such as its award-winning organic Ellan Farm.
*Images: Paul Sherwood Photography, Gold Medal Catering Awards Night Photographer
