The 2025 Taste of Tourism Conference at the Culloden Hotel in Hollywood created a platform for discussions on food and travel.
Restaurateurs get tips on controlling food costs at Taste of Tourism 2025
Gastronomy tourism activist John Mulcahy explored the local food scene, while Corinna Hardgrave evaluated dining experiences in her “Critic’s Choice” session, informing attendees about local restaurant trends.
Sessions throughout the day included discussions on culinary costs by Martin Lynch and a focus on sustainable cocktails by Carmen O’Neal, culminating in the opportunity to enjoy local artisanal produce during the Amazing Grazing buffet.
The Taste of Tourism Summit 2025 was hosted by the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation at the Culloden Estate and Spa, showcasing the importance of food and drink in the region’s tourism
Other speakers shared insights into evolving culinary trends, including low and no-alcohol beverages and the need for talent retention in the hospitality industry. Renowned chefs and industry leaders gathered to discuss trends, sustainability, and innovation, with Tom Brown leading a discussion on seasonal and sustainable practices drawing from his time with Rick Stein and Nathan Outlaw, along with his current Michelin-starred restaurant in London.
The event included an artisan market supported by DAERA, focusing on local food provenance and the economic contributions of the food sector
Minister Andrew Muir shared “Events like the Taste of Tourism Summit celebrate our local food heritage while championing sustainable practices that protect our environment and rural communities. DAERA is proud to support an initiative that not only showcases our outstanding local producers but also drives economic growth and innovation within the industry.”
Janice Gault, Chief Executive of NIHF, shared: “Food and drink play a pivotal role in shaping visitor experiences and the Taste of Tourism Summit provides a fantastic opportunity to showcase the very best that Ireland has to offer. The insights shared today will undoubtedly help businesses adapt to changing consumer demands while ensuring we continue to grow our reputation as a world-class food destination.”
