Georgina Campbell Irish Food and Hospitality Awards 2023
Two Taste of Ulster members have won awards at the Georgina Campbell Irish Food and Hospitality Awards 2023. They were announced on Wednesday 11th October, 2023 at an event hosted by Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board, at the new Bord Bia Dublin Global Hub in Ballsbridge.
The Parson’s Nose in Hillsborough Co Down is the Georgina Campbell Pub of the Year 2023. The citation read: “Previously named after its original owner, The Marquis of Downshire, Ronan and Jennie Sweeney’s charming 18th century pub and restaurant is a sister to that great dining pub, Balloo House in Killinchy and its stylish younger sibling, The Poacher’s Pocket in Lisbane – and it is always a special pleasure to visit. It emerged from a major revamp a few years ago, with all of its character and style intact – think old world with a distinctive modern twist – a spacious and comfortable dining area on the garden level and, more recently, a large covered beer garden overlooking the Hillsborough Castle lake. In the welcoming bar a real coal fire burns in the grate and, along with their popular woodfired sourdough pizzas, classic cooking of famous local meats, poultry and fresh fish are a highlight at this cosy venue. ‘Honest Food and Ales’ is the mantra, and it shows in their good food and drink, including a selection of local beers. Super friendly, professional staff and seriously delicious food – always. A great asset to ‘Royal Hillsborough’.
The Clandeboye Lodge Hotel was named 4-Star Hotel of the Year. Described by Georgina Campbell as a “comfortable privately owned modern four star near Bangor” which “fits in well with its rural surroundings and not only offers an appealing alternative for those who do not need to stay in town, but is also handy enough for business visits to Belfast. Reception staff are exceptionally warm and helpful and this – together with a welcoming fire and plentiful seating areas in the the large and stylish foyer – creates a good impression that carries throughout the hotel. A note from the owners, Pim and Mandy Dalm, to guests arriving in the thoughtfully designed bedrooms, is a nice touch, and the quiet attention to detail is outstanding.
And then there is the good food served in the attractive Coq & Bull brasserie, where an iconic Sophie Dickens Coq and Bull sculpture sets the tone for a stylish design and ‘destination restaurant’ ambience, and the “Good Honest Food” served is inspired by consultation with the famed Nick Price – formerly of Nick’s Warehouse and one of the chefs who led the way in Northern Ireland’s thriving new food scene. The hotel is a popular wedding venue, but events take place in separate conference and banqueting centre, so other hotel guests are not disturbed. Not a bells and whistles place, this is just the spot for guests who appreciate understated excellence.”
Congratulations to both members.
