Business Profile; Sip ‘n’ Surf

Having fast established a reputation for serving “the best Shepherds Pie in town”, Sip ’n’ Surf, located near the Civic Offices, Dungarvan offers a whole lot more.....3 years ago, Katie Kiely and Aileen Whelan saw the need for an internet cafe with office services in Dungarvan.  After some research and assistance from Enterprise Ireland, this idea was put into action. Sip ‘n’ surf was officially opened in March 2006. A big change for two ladies who had been working in GSK prior to this venture, their new daily activities including  preparing and serving food, helping people with the internet on the computers and providing and a whole host of office services including photocopying, faxing, binding, laminating to mention a few.  Of course, based on their convenient location to the official bus stops, Katie & Aileen practically know by heart all the bus routes and times and are always willing to assist anyone in need of this information.  

What is also ideal about Sip ‘n’ Surf, is the fact you can visit just to use the internet, or to have a morning coffee, small or large lunch, afternoon tea or even to get a take-out for a bus trip. All your needs are accommodated!For those who have yet to have the pleasure of visiting Sip’n’Surf, you would be immediately impressed by the relaxed and pleasing ambience. The walls adorned by paintings and prints from local artists and photographers is a landscape that will keep you occupied for a long time.

Acutely aware that customer loyalty has contributed to the success of Sip’n’Surf; Aileen & Katie’s business philosophy, shared by their 3 staff,  is commitment to quality food and customer service. 

The menu offered is another aspect that compliments Sip ‘n’ Surf.  Influenced by Aileen’s many years of living in San Francisco and Katie’s knowledge of what locals like , combined with their love of Irish comfort food makes the variety available extremely tempting  to all palates.  Sip ‘n’ Surf, where possible, strive to use locally sourced products and support local business, demonstrating support in the Support Local Business appeal lobbied by the Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber.

Opening long hours 7 days a week definitely does not dampen the enthusiasm of Katie & Aileen for their business, although they would advise any fellow entrepreneurs thinking about starting a business to be prepared for ups and downs and many late nights working!  It’s the loyalty, support and rewards that make every day unique and keep these two ladies following their dream upbeat and positive. Challenges increase, environments  change, cut backs happen and all the  while businesses have to adapt, this is the reason Sip ‘n’ Surf are adamant they are doing their utmost to keep costs to a minimum in all areas of their business. Both Katie & Aileen say the best reward they receive is being proud of what they have accomplished and the many compliments they get from tourists and locals.

Would they do it all again? Sure! Maybe with a few minor adjustments, but with personalities like these, they need to be in customer service/ hospitality where they can shine. Maintaining the best advice they have ever been given was to ‘stay up to date with taxes’ is obviously very sound, Katie & Aileen obviously took on board many other philosophies too, such as treating every  customer as an equal and bringing their personalities to the business.  

If its a sip and surf you want, or a chat and snack, Aileen and Katie would be delighted to serve you any day in their inviting café, Sip ‘n’ Surf, beside Davitts. If it is something heartier you are after, don’t forget about the renown Sip ‘n’ Surf have for “the best Shepherds Pie in town”!  Sip ’n’ Surf  is a member of the Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber.

For further information about the above business, or generally about the Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber, please contact telephone number 058 45054 or email;