New Cookery School Complex From Top Chef Niall McKenna
Taste of Ulster member chef Niall McKenna of James Street Restaurant in Belfast is launching a new state-of-the-art cookery school in the city’s Cathedral Quarter.
Niall’s Waterman House Cookery School is in the Grade B listed Waterman House building on Hill Street. It will be an expanded version of his former cookery school on James Street South, where he still operates James Street restaurant.
He has created three new jobs with the expansion which represents a £1 million investment.
The school will accommodate groups of up to 18. A reception and first floor area are also being laid out as a new events and cultural space.
Niall says: “Having served Belfast city centre since 2003 with our James Street restaurant, we’re delighted to expand our presence and offer food enthusiasts the best environment to enjoy an exciting learning experience using the finest local ingredients.
“Belfast’s tourism growth has been remarkable, but the challenges of the last 15 months have taken their toll on the city. As we move towards recovery, we’re looking forward to playing our part in contributing to the city’s status as an award-winning destination for local, national and international visitors with this exciting new culinary experience.”
Niall will also launch a new street food offering under the name Le Four from a converted Land Rover Defender and an outdoor dining space in the building’s courtyard.
The James Street group currently employs 57 full and part-time staff across its James St and Hadskis restaurants.
