New Restaurant Opens at Bloomfield Hospital - A Name Rich in History
We’re delighted to announce the opening of our newly refurbished restaurant, JB’s, at Bloomfield Hospital. The fresh, modern space offers a welcoming environment for staff, residents, and visitors to enjoy quality food and refreshments throughout the day.
The story behind the name
The story behind the name is as nourishing as the food we serve. When we launched a staff competition to name our new restaurant, we received nearly 100 creative entries. While suggestions like “Chew & Chat,” “Stacking Good,” “Blasta,” and “The Muffin Top” brought smiles to our faces, the winning name “JB’s” carried a particularly meaningful historical significance.
JB stands for Joseph Bewley, a remarkable Irish tea and coffee merchant whose legacy of compassion and service continues to inspire. During one of Ireland’s darkest periods, the Great Famine (1845-1852), Bewley demonstrated extraordinary leadership and humanity by establishing one of Ireland’s first soup kitchens in 1846.
His initiatives went far beyond providing immediate relief. As the driving force behind the founding of the Central Relief Committee of the Society of Friends, Bewley helped coordinate a nationwide response to the famine. Under his guidance, the Quaker community mobilised to distribute food, clothing, and financial aid to those in desperate need across Ireland. Their tireless efforts saved thousands of lives during this devastating period in Irish history.
Just as Joseph Bewley’s soup kitchen provided sustenance and hope during challenging times, we aim to make JB’s a welcoming space where our hospital community can gather, refuel, and find comfort.
In keeping with our namesake’s spirit of service, we’re committed to providing wholesome food and warm hospitality to everyone who walks through our doors.
Join us at JB’s – where good food meets meaningful history.
