A host of new categories were introduced this year to reflect “the changing face of the Irish culinary scene”.
The 18th annual FOOD&WINE Awards took place on Sunday afternoon with Ireland’s top food entrepreneurs all gathered to see which eatery was to claim the coveted prize of Best Restaurant.
The event – which was held in the form of a gala luncheon at The InterContinental Hotel in Ballsbridge – was hosted by broadcaster and publisher, Norah Casey, and comedian and presenter Barry Murphy.
50 of Ireland’s best restaurants had been nominated in a myriad of categories which eventually saw Ox in Belfast take home the biggest award of the night, Restaurant of the Year.
The Michelin starred restaurant beat out nine other restaurants for the title, including Chapter One, Etto, Patrick Guilbaud and the Wild Honey Inn.
It's the Big One! You’ve heard diners raving about it from afar and locals are always finding an excuse to stop by…. Your winner for Restaurant of the Year is OX, Belfast! Congrats to all the team! @oxbelfast #FWAwards @NespressoUK pic.twitter.com/GUpwklNiun
— FOOD&WINE Magazine Ireland (@foodandwineIE) September 9, 2018
The Best Brunch award went to Meet Me In The Morning on Dublin’s Pleasants St and Ambassador of the Year went to Clare Smyth, the first and only female chef to run a restaurant with three Michelin-stars in the UK.
Other winners were Andy McFadden of Glovers Alley for Chef Of The Year, Wineport Lodge in Athlone for Best For Romance and La Fougère at Knockranny House Hotel in Westport for Hotel Restaurant Of The Year.
A full list of results can be seen here.
Main image via Ox Belfast Facebook
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