There is really nothing in The Menu’s world to beat the breaking of bread with old friends, family, and neighbours and, equally, with strangers who might have the potential to become part of those previously listed tribes, which is why he is always delighted to make mention of Street Feast (May 5), Ireland’s annual day of street parties and community lunches, which last year saw 130,000 people take part in over 1,280 street feasts.

Joe McNamee brings you the latest news from the Irish food world.