The best of Ireland’s artisan food producers have been honoured by leading chefs at the 2024 Euro-Toques food awards. In an awards ceremony on Monday afternoon at Airfield Estate six winners were chosen across the categories of Water, Land, Farm, Dairy, Artisan Produce and Craft. The shortlisted products were nominated by chefs who use them in their restaurants and voted for by members of the Euro-Toques Ireland Food Council, a European community of chefs and cooks. The annual awards were first established in 1996 by the late Myrtle Allen of Ballymaloe House in Co Cork.
The winners
Water
Rossmore Oysters for their native Irish oysters and their significant contribution to regenerative aquaculture in Ireland.
Land
The Apple Farm for their outstanding apples and their contribution to the protection of Irish heritage and biodiversity.
Farm
McGeough’s Butchers for their fine charcuterie and mastery of traditional methods, creating products that capture the unique flavours and character of the Irish landscape.
Dairy
Coolattin Cheddar for their raw milk cheddar and their commitment to championing Ireland’s rich and flavoursome dairy output.
Artisan Produce
BKultured for their Water Kefir and dedication to advancing the artisan production of fermented drinks.
Craft
Blackwater Distillery for their spirit range and their work to protect the tradition and skill of distillation in Ireland.
About 100 chefs and producers gathered at Airfield Estate for the celebration of Irish food where 30 producers offerings were showcased. This year’s awards underscore a shared commitment to sustainable and traditional food production practices.
Chef Conor Halpenny, head of the Euro-Toques Food Council said: “These are the people who commit to local, seasonal produce, ensuring that what we eat is grown, farmed, and crafted with care here in Ireland. Together, we’re creating a culinary landscape that honours the past while inspiring the future.”
