Our History

Ivan and Myrtle Allen

In 1948, Myrtle and Ivan Allen bought the Ballymaloe estate from the Simpson family. Having previously met The Simpsons at one of their famous parties, Ivan jumped at the chance to buy the estate and turn it into a mixed farm.
Over the next 16 years, they brought up their children whilst producing milk, butter, cream, eggs, home-raised pork and veal, along with a host of fruit and vegetables. During this time, Myrtle became highly knowledgeable about cooking and began writing a cookery column in the Irish Farmers Journal.

1964 To Present

It All Started In 1964

In 1964, Myrtle opened Ballymaloe House as a restaurant. Her aim was to pioneer the placing of local, seasonal food at the fore of everything she did. With the help of two local women, she began cooking on an Aga stove, while their shepherd, Joe Cronin, ran the bar.

They cooked using their own produce and encouraged local farmers’ wives to bring in their surplus produce of blackberries, elderflowers and watercress. While many years have passed, this spirit of cooperation, dedication and freshness is as strong as ever. Today, the relationship of the farm to the table continues to underlie everything we produce and you enjoy.