Benny Sheridan

Benedetto “Benny” Sheridan is half Italian, half Irish and grew up in Leixlip, Co. Kildare, surrounded by food from an early age. He spent much of his childhood working in his family’s fish and chip business, where his interest in cooking first began and ultimately inspired him to pursue a career in the kitchen.

Benny went on to study Culinary Arts at Cathal Brugha Street and built up extensive experience working in professional kitchens, including a placement at The K Club, where he later continued to work. He then took the step into business ownership, running his own wine and tapas bar in Leixlip for four years.

Benny met his wife Lisa in Italy 14 years ago, with their families already sharing a long-standing connection dating back to when their mothers first came to Ireland in the 1970s. After marrying and expecting their first child, Benny made the move to Longford and joined Lisa in running the renowned Vocella’s Italian.

Now eight years in business, Vocella’s continues to go from strength to strength. Benny works alongside Lisa and long-standing team member Vincent Meldrum, bringing together years of experience, a strong passion for Italian food and a constant drive to improve, learn and create something special for their customers.