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Behind Every Face, There’s Another Discovery.

Stephen Brennan

Stephen runs My Boy Blue in Dingle Town

What three habits will improve your life?

Getting outdoors, regular exercise, and having something you are passionate about, a hobby, your job or whatever it may be.

For what in your life do you feel most grateful?

My health

What did you think was cool then, when you were young but isn’t cool now?

Drink (in excess)

Which of your personality traits has been the most useful?

Stubborness, determination, and work ethic.

What do you usually follow when making decisions, your head or your heart?

Both! Different decisions require different approaches.

What is the best to start the day?

Coffee of course. Mine is usually an espresso followed by an americano as i dial-in the coffee grinder in the mornings.

What are most people surprised to learn about you?

I worked in finance for 8 years. And that I made a living for a while by travelling across Ireland and the UK competing in fishing competitions! There wouldn't be huge money involved compared to other sports, but it was what i wanted to do at the time and i was 110% focussed on it. So i did ok!

Have you ever been fired?

No, but theres plenty of time yet! I did try my best to be selected for voluntary redundancy when i worked in finance. They wouldn't give it to me and plenty of people who wanted and needed their job were let go instead. I was devastated!

What’s the best advice you have ever received?

Don't believe in luck, believe in hard work. Surround yourself with the right people. And dont be afraid to leave your comfort zone.

What fact amazes you every time you think of it?

Donald Trump is the President of the United States.

What skill or craft would you like to master?

Maybe woodwork or carpentry. It would come in very handy around the cafe. 

If I asked you at 5 what you wanted to be when you grow up what would you say?

A fisherman!

How did you decide on the name of your café?

I was trying to think of something to go with the colour scheme. I must have just recently watched the film 'Oldschool' with Will Ferrell as the quote from it 'You're my boy, Blue' came to mind!

What was the strangest request you have ever been made to you.

One time a lady came into the cafe and asked me to tell her where she was, as in what country she was in! She had no idea where she was. I think she must have been on a bus tour or something, being driven around Ireland and the UK.

What do you think of restaurant critics?

Some are great, some not so much. Not a big fan of the whole self-proclaimed food blogger scene where buzzwords and food hypocrisy are rife.

What four ingredients are necessary in your kitchen?

Eggs, butter, sourdough from Bácús, and peanut rayu from White Mausu.

You can visit Stephen at My Boy Blue in Dingle Town.

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