Derry to host Ulster Restaurant Awards

The awards are to be held in the Guildhall Main Hall on March 15.

“This is a major coup for Derry as these awards are the largest and most coveted accolades in the Irish restaurant industry,” Mayor of Derry and Strabane District Council, Elisha McCallion said.

“Following the city’s success in securing runner up position in Foodie Town Ireland, I attended the awards in Dublin where we made a proposal to host the 2016 Ulster awards here in Derry, we are delighted that we have been successful and look forward to hosting this very special event,” Mayor McCallion said.

Mary Blake, Tourism Officer with Derry City and Strabane District Council who led the Foodie Town campaign in the city said she was delighted the city bid to host the Ulster finals was successful saying the announcement is testament to the city’s growing reputation as a food destination.

“The awards is a fantastic addition to our Year of Food 2016 offering and a great chance for us not only to showcase our local food produce and restaurants, but to showcase the entire city and district. The awards will really help put the city on the map and attract food critics, restaurant owners and chefs from all over Ulster to Derry. These awards are the most coveted awards in the restaurant industry, not only do they recognise achievement and excellence, but they celebrate all aspects of the industry from chefs and restaurant managers to gastro pubs and local food heroes. Its going to a fantastic occasion for the city,” she added.

Adrian Cummins ‎CEO at the Restaurants Association of Ireland is pleased to announce that the awards will be held in Derry this year.

“The Irish Restaurant Awards are the accolades of the Irish Restaurant Industry on the Island of Ireland that everyone wants to win. We are delighted to have entries from all corners of Ireland and to host the Ulster Awards in Derry. It makes the awards more competitive. To be acknowledged as the best restaurant, chef or manager from either side of the border increases the awards calibre, which is a great thing.”