Anthony Rough, centre from Rough Brothers Beer with Oisin Davisand Dee Laffan from the Irish Food Writers Guild
They were given the opportunity to sample some of the finest locally sourced produce and meet with the city and district’s passionate chefs and food and drink producers to experience first hand why Derry is gaining a reputation as a must-visit sustainable food destination.
The media showcase was one of the main events taking place during Love LegenDerry Food Month, a month-long celebration in February, dedicated to showcasing the best of Derry’s food and drink industry.
Invitees were treated to an exclusive menu that included fresh seafood sourced along the Wild Atlantic Way, handcrafted artisan cheeses, locally distilled spirits, and innovative plant-based cuisine, cooked and prepared by local chefs and food and drink producers keen to showcase the city’s unique and diverse food and drink scene that tells the regions unique story of rich culture and heritage.
Jennifer O’Donnell, Tourism Manager with Derry City and Strabane District Council said the event was hugely successful and really shone a light on what Derry has to offer, not only in terms of produce and talent but in the unique way the local LegenDerry Food Network, that comprises of local chefs and food producers, collaborating together in such a positive way to create an exciting food scene in the region.
“We were delighted with the response we had from food writers and journalists to the event.
“We had specialist media from all over the island of Ireland and the UK and several international journalists were here from Belgium and the Netherlands to get a unique insight into the City and District’s commitment to sustainability, farm-to-table dining, and its innovative approach to modern gastronomy that defines our unique vibrant food culture.”
Jim Nash, Director and Co-founder of Wild Atlantic Distillery in Castlederg who was one of the producers who took part said: “We were thrilled to be a part of the LegenDerry Food Month media showcase and to get an opportunity to share our passion for crafting unique, local drinks with a wider audience.
“We’re proud to be part of such a vibrant food and drink scene here in Derry and Strabane, and to showcase our products alongside other talented producers.
“The collaboration between the local food producers, chefs, the Council, DAERA and tourism agencies here is second to none, it really gives businesses like us opportunities to get our story out there.
“I was delighted to meet food and drink writers and bloggers directly at the media showcase and to share my company’s story and future ambitions.
“In addition to making some very useful contacts, it was a fantastic opportunity to meet with other local producers in the area also, to share stories and experiences.”
Funding for the event was provided through DAERA’s NI Regional Food Programme.
Programme Director, Robert Hull said: “A key aim of the Northern Ireland Regional Food Programme is to support our agri-food industry to promote our high quality and award-winning local produce.
“It is very important we highlight the quality, sustainability and high reputation of our industry at every opportunity.”
Those attending the media showcase event enjoyed a specialist tasting menu using home grown and produced quality produce that was curated by some of the city’s finest chefs and complemented with locally produced drinks that enhanced the overall experience. During the event, the Walled City Brewery officially launched their much-anticipated new Brandy ball flavoured poitin ‘Snifter’.
The Love LegenDerry Food Month creates a platform for the city’s chefs and producers to showcase just why Derry features on the bucket lists of those planning food themed breaks in 2025 and to promote the city as an international foodie destination to celebrate the North West region’s outstanding food and drink and the people who produce it.
For more info visit: www.legenderryfood.com
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