KILKENNY, KILKENNY, KILKENNY
Monday 04 November 2013
OVER the bank holiday weekend, we were in Kilkenny for the seventh Savour Kilkenny food festival, which proved a tremendous success.
We stayed in the Pembroke Hotel and on Friday night we were guests of Savour Kilkenny at Zuni's Restaurant where, following a bubbling reception, head chef Maria Raftery served up a truly knock-out tasting menu. using produce from local suppliers. These were not tiny tasting portions but of the lavish Edwardian-style seven course dinner – appropriate for Kilkenny with its magnificent castle dominating the city. It was amazing value at just €60 and €89 with matching wines. Chef Maria Raftery did herself and Savour Kilkenny proud. www.zuni.ie
Next morning we went along to the Chapter House at St Mary's Cathedral on James's Street, which has been turned into a lovely tearoom. I think the new tearoom here is a brilliant idea for the community and for visitors.
We had scrumptious lemon drizzle cake and a cracking carrot cake. They do hot and cold lunches too at really good prices such as a seafood medley with roast baby potatoes and roast veg at €8.95. They also do private functions and small weddings.
www.facebook.com/TheChapterHouseTeaRooms
Savour Kilkenny also saw blogger and KLCR broadcaster Fiona Dillon launch her scrumptious new book, Food from an Irish Garden, in which she shares recipes, knowledge and insights into her 'good life' lifestyle with her family at Hunter's Lodge in Co Carlow.
www.hunterslodgeliving.com
With two Michelin stars now in the county, at Campagne in Kilkenny City and Mount Juliet in Thomastown, plus amazing artisan food producers throughout, Kilkenny is a dining destination to be reckoned with.