Carlow Restaurant Week starts this weekend

Carlow Tourism is delighted to announce the inaugural Restaurant Week, celebrating the rich history of food and local culinary talent in Co Carlow.

Taking place from tomorrow Saturday 26 October to 2 November eleven members of the Carlow Food Network will showcase dedicated Carlow dishes that highlight the county’s unique agricultural heritage. This initiative not only promotes the incredible flavours of the county but also marks a significant step in making Carlow’s culinary offerings more prominent on local menus.

During Carlow Restaurant Week, each participating restaurant will feature a dedicated Carlow dish, crafted with locally sourced ingredients.

From hearty soups like the Rooster Booster Soup in the Goodly Barrow Waterways Museum and Café, to vibrant international dishes such as Chicken Tikka Masala served with Saag Aloo (spinach and Rooster potato) and pilau rice at New Moon Indian Restaurant in Tullow, there’s something for everyone.

Enjoy Rachel’s Braised Beef Stew made with O’Hara’s Stout and served alongside Rooster potatoes in Arboretum Home and Garden Heaven, or savour Reddy’s Slow Roasted Shank of Lamb paired with creamy mashed Roosters and roasted root vegetables.

Experience the Herb Crusted Rack of Ballon Lamb at Teach Dolmain, complemented by Carlow Rooster fondant potatoes and a rosemary reduction. The Seven Oaks Hotel offers a comforting Beef and Vegetable Carlow Ale Casserole with Champ made from Rooster potatoes, while the Talbot Hotel features Grilled Kilmore Quay Hake with a medley of Carlow produce.

And don’t miss the Carlow Spudlicious Chocolate Cake at Woodford Dolmen Hotel for a sweet finish – a unique, rich and delicious chocolate cake made with Carlow’s finest rooster potatoes and topped with a chocolate ganache!

Of course, Carlow Farmers Market which takes place each Saturday during Restaurant Week will celebrate the wide variety of produce it offers from fresh fruit and vegetables to meats, cheese, jams, chutneys and home baking.

Speaking about the initiative Chairman of Carlow Tourism Michael Walsh stated “ Carlow Restaurant Week aims to foster a sense of community and welcomes locals and visitors to savour the rich food experiences of the county. Carlow has a superb history in food production and we are hoping that this dedicated initiative will help shine a light on the fabulous ingredients, local dishes and culinary talent to be enjoyed here”.

“Thanks to generous funding from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Carlow County Council and Carlow Local Enterprise Office, the members of the Carlow Food Network are excited to present dedicated Carlow dishes on their menus during Restaurant Week.

“This support not only highlights the rich culinary heritage of the county but also empowers local chefs to showcase the best of Carlow’s produce. Each dish is a celebration of our agricultural innovation and commitment to sustainable practices, inviting diners to explore the unique flavours that make Carlow’s food scene truly special”.

Concluding he encouraged everyone - families, food enthusiasts and anyone looking for a delightful dining experience—to come out and taste the unique flavours and ingredients of Carlow. Reservations are welcomed though not essential, and the full list of participating premises can be found on www. carlowtourism.com/carlow-food-network/ or www.carlowtourism.com