Georgina Campbell Award Success
Three Taste of Ulster members were among the select few honoured at the Georgina Campbell Irish Food and Hospitality awards. Celebrating Ireland’s gold standard champions of the food and hospitality industries, the winners were announced at a gala lunch at the InterContinental Dublin Hotel on September 30th, 2025. They were Wine and Brine, Moira who were awarded the Neighbourhood Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year prize, while Dunluce Lodge won Best Newcomer. Cyprus Avenue in East Belfast was named Neighbourhood Favourite in the Breakfast Awards section.
Georgina Campbell is a highly-respected figure in Irish hospitality. The awards were established in the 1990s and are Ireland’s longest-running hospitality awards. Each place is judged on merit and anonymous inspectors pay for their own meals and accommodation. Georgina’s citations below detail the reasons why these members made the cut.
NEIGHBOURHOOD FINE DINING RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2025: Wine and Brine, Moira, Co Down
In the heart of one of Northern Ireland’s prettiest villages and now celebrating a decade in business, Wine & Brine brought an exciting new dimension to dining in Moira when it opened in 2015. Behind the classic Georgian frontage lies a modern, bustling restaurant that reflects the vision and energy of chef Chris McGowan and his wife Davina. After twenty years away, including twelve spent as Richard Corrigan’s right-hand man, McGowan’s return to his native province was much anticipated – and his first solo venture hit the ground running. Critical acclaim came swiftly, but perhaps most importantly, Wine & Brine struck a chord with local diners, becoming an enduring success and a true community asset.
Menus are rooted in the best of Northern Irish produce, with an emphasis on pickling, brining and fermenting – traditional techniques given fresh life in a contemporary context. Dishes showcase big flavours, confident combinations and the assured finesse of a chef at the top of his game. Whether it’s a classic prawn cocktail, game in season, or an inventive vegetarian dish such as salt-baked turnip ‘tatin’, every plate delivers character and quality. The restaurant’s friendly service and accessible pricing add to its appeal, while an interesting drinks list offers plenty to explore. Stylish, welcoming and full of personality, Wine & Brine is proof that fine dining can thrive at the heart of a neighbourhood – and an inspiration to others.
NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR 2025: Dunluce Lodge, Portrush, Co Antrim
On the spectacular North Antrim coast, just outside Portrush, 5-star Dunluce Lodge hit the ground running when it launched just ahead of The Open at Royal Portrush in 2025 – and wasted no time in establishing itself as one of Ireland’s most exciting new destinations. Overlooking the Atlantic and the rugged headland crowned by Dunluce Castle, its setting could hardly be more dramatic – and this special sense of place is at the heart of everything it offers. The classic contemporary design takes full advantage of the sweeping views, while natural tones and local materials make for relaxing interiors and the blend of understated luxury with a genuine welcome has made Dunluce Lodge a retreat where guests feel both indulged and at ease. Accommodation is quietly luxurious and good food is central to the experience, with the finest local produce showcased in elegant yet unfussy menus. A celebration of the North Coast’s larder, the emphasis is on seasonality, provenance and flavour – and service is exemplary too. Warm and attentive without ever being overbearing, staff create a sense of ease that encourages guests to linger. With its unique location, refined hospitality and special food, Dunluce Lodge is setting a new benchmark for Irish coastal retreats.
NEIGHBOURHOOD FAVOURITE: Cyprus Avenue, Belfast
Family businesses lie at the heart of Irish hospitality, and few illustrate their strengths
better than chef-patron Richard McCracken’s Cyprus Avenue. Since opening in 2017 this atmospheric restaurant has been a beacon for the lucky locals of East Belfast, while also drawing discerning visitors from much further afield – quite a tricky balance to achieve. Named for the nearby street immortalised by Van Morrison, Cyprus Avenue quickly doubled in size to create a spacious yet intimate setting with a lively cosmopolitan feel. A heated terrace extends the welcome outdoors, and inside, the walls celebrate local suppliers whose produce shapes the menus – from Finnebrogue venison to Ballyhornan cheddar, Ballydrain vegetables and Peter Hannan’s famed salt-aged ribeye. Even the honey comes from their own
rooftop hives. Breakfast sets the tone with classics alongside more adventurous choices such as Glenarriff trout with scrambled eggs, tortilla and avocado. As the day unfolds, menus evolve with creative, carefully sourced dishes that reflect the seasons. A real food menu for children and dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus underline the restaurant’s inclusive ethos. Truly a neighbourhood restaurant to be proud of,
friendly, well-trained staff, skilful cooking and an emphasis on provenance have cemented Cyprus Avenue’s place at the heart of its community.
Congratulations to all of you.
