Food from Northern Ireland will take centre stage in London this weekend (19 June), as award-winning Belfast chef, and owner of the acclaimed James Street South Group, Niall McKenna, becomes the first chef from Northern Ireland to participate in the prestigious Taste of London event at Regents Park.
Niall, who was recently honoured for his contribution to Northern Ireland’s hospitality industry, will be showcasing the finest Northern Ireland produce at a cookery demonstration at the event on Sunday 19 June, allowing the crowd to sample everything from Glenarm smoked salmon, to Peter Hannan’s shorthorn pastrami brisket and Ewing’s mouthwatering smoked scallops.
It is the first time that a restaurant from Northern Ireland has been asked to take part in the event, and Niall, jumped at the chance.
“This is an amazing event that I will thoroughly enjoy participating in. Guests from around the world will be able to enjoy signature dishes from the UK’s finest restaurants, learn tricks of the trade from world-class chefs, and sample gourmet food and drink producers all in one stunning setting. I am looking forward to introducing our incredible local produce to such a knowledgeable audience at Taste of London.”
Michele Shirlow, Chief Executive Officer at Food NI, commented:
“The Year of Food and Drink campaign has been successful in increasing awareness of the quality, originality and outstanding taste of our food and drink, the producers and, of course, the chefs that prepare the food so skilfully. It is wonderful that Niall McKenna has been given the opportunity to attend Taste of London, allowing thousands of people to experience the best of NI food for the first time.”
As part of the NI Year of Food and Drink, and with support from Visit Belfast, the event will also showcase Belfast as a top destination to Londoners.
Anne McMullan, from Visit Belfast, added
“Belfast has a growing reputation as a top foodie destination, thanks to a vibrant restaurant scene offering everything from fine dining and exciting midlevel restaurants to the classic Ulster fry breakfast and food markets. To have the chance to showcase such a great example of our local chefs and the quality of our produce at an event that attracts thousands of people is fantastic. Food is such an important part of any visitor’s trip to a city, and in Belfast we can compete with the best.”