Kinsale welcomed Foodie Destinations judges Zack Gallagher and Wendy Kavanagh, as it showcased Kinsale as one of the Restaurant Association of Ireland’s Top 10 Foodie Destinations 2017, on Saturday August 19th.
During the judging process, Kinsale Chamber of Tourism & Business, Kinsale Good Food Circle and Kinsale Food Tours organised a mini food tour of some of Kinsale’s restaurants and shops, sampling local produce, meeting producers and a number of people involved with food tourism and education.
“We are delighted to be shortlisted this year and wish to thank the judges for visiting Kinsale today as well as everyone for voting for Kinsale in the public vote over the past few weeks.
“Kinsale has so many businesses involved in the food and drink industry, with over 60 restaurants and cafés, supplied by many producers and employing over 1,000 people in the town,” said Ciarán Fitzgerald, Chairman Kinsale Chamber of Tourism & Business.
As well as having a full calendar of foodie events and being the starting point of the Wild Atlantic Way, Kinsale is continually evolving as the town welcomes new people, their business ideas and inspiration.
“We believe that our people, produce and passion are the recipe for success. The local provenance of our meat, fish, seafood, fruit and vegetables together with the mix talent of people from the locality and all over the world combine to offer great food, service and value to all,” added Ciarán Fitzgerald.
The ‘Foodie Destination of Ireland’ award recognises a destination that actively promotes itself through joint promotional activities such as food festivals, gourmet trails or farmers’ markets as well as great dining experiences. The winning Irish destination will have established a local producer/supplier network which is utilised and promoted by local businesses. Plans for future growth and investment into the food and hospitality industry at a local level will also be taken into consideration by judges. Education, training, development and employment will be key components of the ultimate foodie destination.
The overall Foodie Destination 2017 will be announced on August 29th.

The Kinsale Giant with members of Kinsale Chamber of Tourism & Business, Kinsale Good Food, Kinsale Food Tours and local producers as they welcomed Foodie Destinations judges Zack Gallagher and Wendy Kavanagh. Kinsale is one of the Restaurant Association of Ireland’s Top 10 Foodie Destinations 2017.
Picture. John Allen