Taste of Northern Ireland with Travelbiz

Jacinta from Travelbiz was delighted to attend Tourism Northern Ireland’s wonderful media event in the Blue Goose at Dobbins on Stephen’s Lane in Dublin on August 27th to showcase the amazing talent and produce from the wee province. In addition to lauding Northern Ireland’s own superb ingredients, this event sees the launch of Neven Maguire’s Ulster Food Tour. This is a new six- part series celebrating Ulster’s finest food, people, places and produce. Definitely one not to be missed!

A specially curated menu by renowned Fermanagh Chef Glen Wheeler from 28 at The Hollow was supported by the team at Tully Mill Restaurant in Fermanagh. We were privileged to meet many of the province’s passionate producers who grow and promote their food and market their wares throughout Ireland.

To be in the company and enjoy the talents of such culinary greats as Neven Maguire and Glen Wheeler was a treat indeed. Glen even rhapsodised how he was a protégé of Neven’s (when he couldn’t even peel a carrot!) but he was bitten by Neven’s enthusiasm and energy. The welcome presence of Paula Mc Intyre (rem. the BBC series Paula’s Hamely Kitchen?) added to the culinary talent in Dobbins.

Gary Quate (Food & Drink Tourism Manager) Tourism NI, introduced us to delicious cocktails (made from local Ulster gin) and justifiably lauded the quality of the produce coming out of Ulster. Pride in the crisps, fudge, gin, whiskey, rapeseed oil etc. was palpable. Mouthwatering tasting experiences followed and, as we mingled, Neven introduced us to many stories of his own unique experiences along the way. I think he surely embraces a giant spirit!

Feasts for the eyes, tastes and all the senses!

Fiona Cunningham (Director Tourism NI Dublin) and Clare Mc Coy are always on hand to welcome guests and apprise us of the wonders of the lovely province. They never fail to impress.