As you know, I have been traveling in Northern Ireland last week – one of the most pleasant experiences I have had has been the array of gourmet food.

“With award-wining restaurants, gastro pubs and cafés and some of the finest artisan producers on the island of Ireland, plus two of Northern Ireland’s three PGIs (Protected Geographical Indicators) in Bramley apples and Lough Neagh eels, it’s no exaggeration to describe Armagh as the beating heart of Northern Ireland’s burgeoning food scene.” full article here:(Visit Armagh)

One of the Highlight meals we had was at 4 Vicars – Owned and operated by Chef Gareth Reid, who has been instrumental in developing the area into a “Gourmet Food Hub”.  Farm to table organic local produce,  locally sourced seafood, grass fed meat, homemade  bread & pastries – a fusion of traditional & exotic dishes.  Gareth’s wife Kasia treated us to a special pre-dinner cocktail called “Apple Pie” with Bison Grass Vodka & local apple cider  AAHmazing !!!  This was just one of the delicious meals enjoyed.

above: appetizer of stuffed cucumber, duck liver pate, smoked Lough Nea Pollan fish, second dish: Langosta tails, Main: slow cooked brisket of corned beef, and dessert, Apple pie with home made vanilla bean ice cream. 
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On the traditional side, I had some tasty “Irish Breakfast’ every day, including local bacon, sausage, black & white pudding (an Irish fave) – another big hit is “Cream Tea” which is usually a scones served with clotted cream & jam  with a cup of tea!!
above: traditional Irish Breakfast variations, scone with cream & jam. cup o’tea
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I have really been spoiled for choice.  Northern Ireland is really on the food map !!!  When I stayed in Culloden Estate & Spa, I was equally treated to other culinary delights in both the Cultra Inn and their 5* restaurant “The Mitre” with head chef Paul McKnight.  Below are some photos of the wonderful dinner I was treated to here:
above: mixed greens with goats cheese, crab mousse, blue cheese with pickled pears & onions, Ballygally salmon wrapped in Parma Ham with greens & courgette
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When you visit Northern Ireland, you have to check out the local food available as it is second to none.