International food writers dine out in Northern Ireland
Food writers from ten countries sample some of Northern Ireland’s artisan food and restaurants
Fifteen (15) food writers from ten different countries – including GB, the United States, Canada, Australia, Germany, Spain, Denmark, Belgium, India and South Africa – have been visiting Northern Ireland, as guests of Tourism Ireland.
The journalists have been discovering why 2016 has been designated Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Drink – meeting local food producers and award-winning chefs, as well as experiencing some of our wonderful restaurants. The articles written by this influential group will be read by millions of ‘foodies’ – or potential holidaymakers for Northern Ireland.
Following an itinerary devised by Tourism NI, the journalists had the opportunity to meet local food producers including Will and Allison Abernethy, who use traditional churning methods to make their award-winning butter. They met Fermanagh butcher, Pat O’Doherty, famous for his black bacon, and Mark Douglas (known as the ‘Krazi Baker’), who bakes traditional breads with a modern twist. They also enjoyed a visit to Broughgammon, to a family-run farm specialising in Cabrito (kid goat meat).
Aubrey Irwin, Tourism Ireland’s head of Northern Ireland, said: “Tourism Ireland was delighted to invite these journalists to Northern Ireland, to experience at first-hand our superb food and drink offering. Food is a really important element of the holiday experience and our local produce, restaurants and chefs are now up there with the best in the world.
“Publicity is an important element of Tourism Ireland’s overall promotional programme. The articles these journalists will produce when they return home will be read by millions of ‘foodies’ and potential holidaymakers for Northern Ireland, raising awareness of our superb culinary offering and inspiring them to come and find out for themselves what makes a holiday here unique and truly memorable.
“Latest NISRA figures confirm that we welcomed an additional +7% visitors to Northern Ireland in the first half of 2015. Tourism Ireland is determined to ensure that growth continues. 2016 has been designated Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Drink, when Tourism Ireland will take every opportunity to highlight Northern Ireland around the world to people who love great food.”
