In this episode, Paddy speaks with Barney McElroy, co-founder of the Red Door Cafe, Carrickmacross, which celebrated its fourth anniversary this week (22nd October).

Barney talks about his unexpected journey from studying accounting to founding a café with his brothers. Reflecting on his transition, Barney recalls the early spark that led him to coffee: a local Italian restaurant where his father would order double espressos. This opened his eyes to the unique flavors and experiences each cup of coffee can offer, igniting a passion that would eventually lead him to establish Red Door Cafe.

Barney’s initial attraction to coffee was rooted in its authenticity and warmth. For Barney, it’s not just about coffee – it’s about making specialty coffee approachable. The coffee world is filled with complex tasting notes and exclusive origins which sometimes alienates customers rather than inviting them in. Instead, Barney emphasizes a down-to-earth philosophy focused on freshness and quality, achieved through sourcing beans from Cloud Picker Coffee Roasters, with whom they’ve collaborated since opening.

The heart of Red Door Cafe lies in its commitment to community. Barney shares how the café is more than a business – it’s a communal space where connections flourish. A memorable interaction with a regular customer who was deaf is a standout example; Barney learned some sign language from her, which enriched his connection with this customer and her family. This kind of exchange, he explains, brings a deeper fulfillment to his work, underscoring his belief that cafes serve as havens for customers in their rare free time. It’s a humbling privilege, Barney says, to be a small part of people’s lives, knowing they choose Red Door Cafe for quality moments with friends or family.

Music also plays a crucial role in setting the tone at Red Door Cafe. Barney mentions “Marinade” by Dope Lemon as perfect for the calm of early hours and “Tell It to My Heart” as a song that energizes both staff and customers during busy periods (don’t forget to check out the Spotify playlist for the Podcast). The carefully chosen Red Door Cafe playlist, alongside the eclectic artwork on the cafe’s walls, adds to the warm, vibrant ambiance, turning Red Door Cafe into a place where people not only come for coffee but for a full experience.

Barney showcases the charity he was involved with while at university in Galway. Coldvember NUIG is a student-driven fundraising initiative that aims to raise funds for mental health charities. In the past they have helped raise thousands for fantastic organisations by inviting everyone in Galway to join them for a dip in the sea every day of November starting on November 1.

In the final part of the conversation, Barney discusses the value of hospitality work, particularly in Ireland, where it’s often undervalued. He’s proud of his team, describing the dedication they bring to every shift and the joy they bring to customers. Barney believes this work requires significant skill and passion, noting that each team member’s efforts contribute to the cafe’s unique culture. In his view, cafes are cultural hubs, where the baristas, servers, and kitchen staff play crucial roles in building community connections. His hope is that patrons can take a moment to appreciate the people who enhance their lives with each coffee and meal served.

The episode wraps up with a reflection on the value of skilled, personable baristas and the cultural significance of cafes like Red Door. Both Paddy and Barney agree that a good cafe experience goes beyond just coffee; it’s about creating a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates community and the artistry of coffee. The episode offers listeners a heartfelt look at the daily rhythms of a beloved cafe and the joy of sharing that experience with others, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for the work and passion that go into every cup.

While every interview I’ve had on this podcast has been valuable, my conversation with Barney stands out as something truly special. His passion, commitment, and, as he aptly put it, “considered” approach brought a depth to our conversation that I found particularly inspiring. It’s one of the most engaging episodes I’ve recorded, and there’s even more in the full, unedited interview available below. It’s well worth a listen!

Red Door is open Wednesdays – Fridays from 8am-4pm; Saturdays 9am-4pm; and Sundays 9am-3pm. The run club is on Sunday mornings from 8.30am in conjunction with Embassy Gym; and the cafe is on Instagram

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