The Algiers in Baltimore Wins Regional Title for Innovative Pub of the Year

The Algiers gastro pub in Baltimore has been crowned the Cork regional winner of Innovative Pub of the Year in the Irish Pub Awards 2025. The announcement was made on Friday, 12th September, with the gala final taking place in Dublin on 12th November.

Husband-and-wife team Bill and Ann Hillyard are celebrating five years at the helm of The Algiers this year. In that time, it has become known as West Cork’s only craft cocktail bar, offering made-to-order seasonal cocktails using fresh ingredients, often foraged locally. Its globally inspired menu blends Mexican, Californian, and Asian influences using the finest West Cork produce with dishes ranging from harissa mussels to San Diego-style taquitos, all made with ingredients sourced from the land and sea on its doorstep.

Earlier this year, Bill hosted a rare Tequila Masterclass, fresh from an intensive production course in Jalisco, Mexico. Guests were guided through a tasting of elevated, terroir-driven tequilas, including bottles unavailable elsewhere in Ireland, highlighting The Algiers’ commitment to bringing world-class drinks experiences to Baltimore.

The pub has also reimagined the traditional night out with experiences like the Algiers Disco Cruise in partnership with neighbouring business Cape Clear Ferries.

Speaking about the win, co-owner Bill Hillyard said: “Innovation at The Algiers is rooted in creative thinking, a passion for quality, and a bold blending of cultures, ideas, and experiences, all while staying true to our role as a local pub in Baltimore. We’re proud to be recognised for bringing something fresh to the village, while celebrating the community and heritage that make West Cork so special.”

In addition to its food and drink offerings, The Algiers has established itself as a cultural hub in Baltimore, hosting the annual O’Driscoll Clan Gathering, live music sessions, and the world-famous Algiers Disco. Looking ahead, the pub is continuing to innovate with the restoration of its historic shopfront by local conservationist Ted O’Driscoll, a project blending heritage with sustainability.

The Irish Pub Awards celebrate excellence across the sector, with the Innovative Pub category recognising pubs that have introduced fresh ideas, whether through food and drink, customer experiences, or design, resulting in improved business and customer appeal.

The Algiers will now represent Cork at the national Irish Pub Awards in November. 

About The Algiers
The Algiers is an iconic West Cork gastro pub, blending its rich history with innovative food and drink. Known for its craft cocktails (the only pub in West Cork to offer them), The Algiers serves a wholesome, globally inspired menu, featuring fresh West Cork produce with influences from Mexico, California, and Asia. House favourites include Tacos, Chicken Taquitos, and signature craft cocktails.

In 2019, husband and wife Bill and Ann Hillyard, originally from California, moved to Baltimore, West Cork, after purchasing The Algiers. They officially opened their doors in February 2020, just weeks before Ireland’s first lockdown, and are celebrating their fifth anniversary this year. Despite the challenges of the past five years, they lovingly transformed the space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere inspired by North Africa. With rich textures, ambient lighting, and subtle nods to Baltimore’s pirate past, The Algiers has become a go-to destination for food, craft cocktails, and warm hospitality.

For more information, visit www.thealgiersinn.ie