The Waterford Medieval Museum was the stunning location for a special supper experience Sunday 12 October.
The AVEA (Association of Visitor Experiences and Attractions) held their annual two-day conference in Waterford, where 200 leaders across Ireland’s tourism and hospitality sector came together to focus on Ireland’s growing visitor economy and the crucial role attractions play in shaping the country’s tourism offering.
Taste Waterford was asked to deliver a unique dining experience for 80 delegates -‘A Night at the Museum’, which showcased Waterford food and drink.
Jon Toy of Meat Jon, a high-welfare butcher, created a unique menu including local award-winning restaurants, chefs and producers – offering a story of why the region’s food and drink is world-class.
The evening started in the 13th century Choristers Hall with a drinks reception by Dave McLaughlin of 7th Raven, offering locally made strawberry daiquiri and ginger beer.
After talks by CEO of AVEA Catherine Flanagan, museum curators Donnchadh Ó’Ceallacháin and Cliona Purcell, Richard Povey of Taste Waterford, and Jon Toy of Meat Jon, guests were then invited into the Garden Room.
The vaulted space offered the perfect setting to dine, with a special menu from Luis Martin of Mara Restaurant including a dish from Comeragh Mountain Lamb, and chicken liver parfait from Irish Gourmet Butter.
Nicola Crowley and Dvir Nusery of Mezze in Tramore had a delicious offering of Middle-Eastern cuisine, along with falafel, salad, and a dessert.
And Lynne Swarbrigg of Bia Lynne used local producer the Seagull Bakery to offer bruschetta with Grantstown tomatoes, and pasta.
The evening was a great success and offered the perfect start to the annual conference.
We wanted to say a massive thank you to the AVEA for the opportunity, and to the Waterford Medieval Museum for a truly special location.
And finally, thank you to all the producers, chefs and staff, along with The Granville Hotel, The Theatre Royal, and The Reg, for providing a range of support services – we appreciate you!
