Chefs and foodies descend on Litfest

The organisers of the Ballymaloe Literary Festival of Food and Wine, which is running throughout this bank holiday weekend, say it will bring some of the world’s best known chefs, critics, commentators, kitchen gardeners, foragers, and wine experts to East Cork.

As well as readings, talks, and panel discussions, Litfest will feature demonstrations, tastings, producer visits, foraging expeditions, lunches, and dinners.

Among the speakers will be Darina and Myrtle Allen, Madhur Jaffrey, Neven Maguire, and British food writer, critic, and the star of television’s Great British Menu, Matthew Fort.

“The objective of the Ballymaloe Literary Festival of Food and Wine is to bring together a wide, varied, and international group of cookery writers, journalists, bloggers, and critics whilst also offering a varied programme for professional and non-professional food enthusiasts from Ireland and abroad,” said the organisers.

In a blog post, Matthew Fort wrote: “This is like the finest attacking line-up ever put together. Formidable folk every one of them. The words wing and prayer spring to mind. Look for me in the bar. Whatever happens, it’ll be a riot of words, food & fun, not necessarily in that order, and possibly with the emphasis on the word ‘riot’.”

The event runs until Monday. Among today’s highlights is a cooking demonstration by Jaffrey from 10am to 1pm.

Further information is available at litfest.ie.