Real place on a plate

PLACE on a plate — it’s more than just a foodie catchphrase, you know.

Right now, Fáilte Ireland is campaigning to encourage Irish restaurants, bars, cafes and hotels to put local ingredients, producers and recipes up front on their menus. It’s all meant to engage visitors searching for authentic experiences as they travel.

I’m one of those visitors. That’s why, sitting in Gleeson’s Townhouse, I’ve just ordered the cheapest main course on the menu — a Roscommon lamb stew for €12.50.