GOOD FOOD IRELAND® 20th anniversary AWARDS 2026
MONDAY NIGHT NOVEMBER 16TH, 2026
INTERCONTINENTAL DUBLIN
Celebrating two decades of championing Ireland’s food, drink, hospitality and tourism sectors, the Good Food Ireland® Awards recognise the businesses, producers and people who have helped shape Ireland’s reputation through authentic Irish ingredients, local sourcing and exceptional visitor experiences. For 20 years, Good Food Ireland® has set the benchmark for excellence, connecting consumers and visitors with the very best of Ireland’s food, drink and hospitality culture.
From artisan food and drink producers and family-run enterprises to restaurants, cafés, pubs, hotels, visitor attractions and food tourism experiences, the Awards honour those who continue to raise standards, support local communities and showcase the authentic taste and experience of Ireland.
The 20th Anniversary Awards will take place at our Host Partner, InterContinental Dublin on Monday, 16th November 2026, bringing together industry leaders from across the island to celebrate achievement, innovation and excellence.
tITLE Partner FBD INSURANCE
FBD Insurance is the Title Partner of the Good Food Ireland® 20th Anniversary Awards, supporting a milestone celebration of Ireland’s food, drink, hospitality and tourism sectors.
As one of Ireland’s leading insurers rooted in the agricultural and business community, FBD shares a long-standing connection with the people and enterprises that form the backbone of Ireland’s food culture.
Through its sponsorship, FBD Insurance plays a key role in recognising excellence across the island of Ireland, helping to shine a light on businesses that deliver authentic Irish food experiences while contributing to local economies and regional development.
Together, FBD Insurance and Good Food Ireland® are proud to support the businesses and people who continue to set the standard for Irish food, drink and hospitality at home and on the global stage.
Join Us for the Good Food Ireland®
20th Anniversary Awards 2026
TICKET INFORMATION (Limited Capacity)
Tickets to the Gala Awards Dinner Celebration Now on Sale.
Preferred accommodation rates at InterContinental, Dublin. Please email [email protected]
Don’t Miss out on this prestigious awards and networking event!
Dress Code: Cocktail Wear
Entry or Nomination opening Monday, June 22nd
the food lovers choice award 2026
As Good Food Ireland® celebrates its 20th Anniversary, the Food Lovers Choice Award invites consumers, visitors and supporters to recognise the businesses that best represent the authentic taste and experience of Ireland.
Open to businesses through direct entry or public nomination, this consumer-voted award celebrates outstanding food, drink, hospitality and visitor experiences across five tourism regions throughout the island of Ireland.
Entries and nominations will go forward to public voting, with regional winners announced at the 20th Anniversary Good Food Ireland® Gala Awards Ceremony.
Entry or Nomination opening Monday, June 22nd
Best Irish Seafood Experience Award 2026
As Good Food Ireland® celebrates its 20th Anniversary, we are proud to introduce the new Best Irish Seafood Experience Award, sponsored by BIM.
This award recognises the businesses showcasing the very best of Irish seafood and creating memorable visitor experiences through food, hospitality and storytelling. Open to businesses across the island of Ireland through direct entry or public nomination, this award celebrates those who champion Irish fish and shellfish and connect visitors with Ireland’s coastal heritage and seafood culture. This award highlights businesses that place Irish seafood at the heart of their offering and help bring the story of Ireland’s waters, coastal communities and maritime traditions to life.
Entries and nominations go forward to public voting, with the highest-voted businesses shortlisted as finalists. Each finalist then undergoes an independent on-site mystery inspection before the overall winner is selected and announced at the 20th Anniversary Good Food Ireland® Gala Awards Ceremony.
Why these awards matter
The Good Food Ireland® Awards 2026 in association with FBD Insurance are more than a celebration, they’re a catalyst for rural growth, sustainable food tourism and all-island collaboration. With FBD Insurance as the official sponsor for the third year in a row, this year’s 20th Anniversary Awards spotlight the producers, chefs, cafés and food businesses whose work strengthens communities, creates jobs and champions local excellence across Ireland.

Irish Ingredients

Sustainability

Certified Quality

Consumer Spotlight

High Accolade

Trustmark
2023 commemorative brochure
2023 awards gallery
Master of Cermonies
TO BE CONFIRMED
He has worked across the private and public sectors in more than 50 countries making marketing change happen in a wide range of enterprises and organisations from 1 person startups to global multinationals in over 20 different industries and a number of governments.
Noel has particularly relevant experience in the food and tourism sectors where he has worked at the highest level on a number of global consumer brands, international food services and international tourism and travel in both private and public sectors in Europe, the Americas and Asia.
AWARD CATEGORIES & fINALISTS
5 star hotel of the Year 2026
The 5 Star Hotel of the Year Award highlights a hotel that has achieved a harmonious balance between culinary excellence, sourcing the finest local ingredients that push the boundaries of traditional gastronomy, luxurious surroundings, beautifully appointed rooms, state-of-the-art amenities and exceptional service, creating an unforgettable experience for its guests.
WINNER 2025 – Ashford Castle, Co Mayo
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
Culinary Haven of the Year 2026
The Culinary Haven Award celebrates a destination where food is at the heart of the experience, a true sanctuary for food lovers. It recognises places defined by seasonal Irish produce, authentic flavours, warm hospitality and a deep passion for Ireland’s food culture.
WINNER 2025 – Ballymaloe House, Co Cork
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
4 star hotel of the Year 2026
WINNER 2025 – Great Southern, Co Kerry
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2026
The Good Food Ireland® Restaurant of the Year is a restaurant that consistently delivers exceptional culinary experiences using high-quality Irish ingredients. The Chef’s creativity consistently demonstrates an aptitude for bringing out the integrity of the ingredients. Warmth of hospitality, exceptional services, together with great food, that truly makes for a memorable dining experience.
HOTEL RESTAURANT OF the Year 2026
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
Café of the Year 2026
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
Pub Restaurant of the Year 2026
The Good Food Ireland® Pub Restaurant of the Year is a truly authentic pub, that represents the very best of Irish food, culture and tradition, taking the Irish pub experience to a whole different level of excellence. Showcasing local Irish produce, with a strong consideration for traditional or speciality Irish dishes, supplemented by home-baked breads, cakes and desserts. An extensive drinks selection of local Irish brews, spirits, drinks and beverages including Irish fruit cordials and juice, complemented by Irish Snacks and Crisps. A pub where people are immersed in another world of warmth, conversation, laughter and fun.
WINNER 2025 – The Bianconi Inn, Co Kerry
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
Shop of the Year 2026
The Good Food Ireland® Shop of the Year offers a selection of quality Irish food and/or drink, that shares the stories of the people and places behind it. A shop that celebrates Irish biodiversity and creates a better environment for cooking, eating and beyond.
WINNER 2025 – The Blue Goat Ramelton, Co Donegal
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
Food Tourism experience award 2026
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
BEST IRISH SEAFOOD EXPERIENCE 2026 – NEW FOR 2026 – sponsored by bim
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
Sustainability Award 2026
The Good Food Ireland Sustainability Award recognises businesses that have developed and implemented clean production initiatives and sustainable practices, demonstrating how they are helping to protect Ireland’s environment.
WINNERS 2025 :
Tourism Sustainability Award Fish City, Belfast
Producer Sustainability Award Oriel Sea Salt
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
Producer OF THE YEAR Awards 2026
The Good Food Ireland® Producer of the Year awards recognise producers for their premium produce and commitment to sourcing local, Irish ingredients, leading the field in their production ethos, cultivation and catch practices and the top-quality produce it results in. We acknowledge producers with a focus on environmental sustainability, preservation and collaboration with the local community.
Meat Producer of The Year
WINNER 2025 – Murphy’s Butchers, Co Carlow
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
FRUIT & VEGETABLE PRODUCER OF THE YEAR
WINNER 2025 – Malone Fruit Farm, Co Carlow
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
Dairy Producer of The Year
WINNER – Linnalla Farm Pure Irish Ice Cream, Co Clare
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
Fish & Seafood Producer of The Year
WINNER 2025 – Connemara Smokehouse, Co Galway
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
Bakery & Chocolate Producer of the Year
WINNER 2025 – The Bakery Shack, Co Donegal
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
Drinks Producer of The Year
WINNER The Dew Drop Brewhouse, Co Kildare
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
Sweet & Savoury Producer of The Year
WINNER 2025 – Irish Black Butter, Co Antrim
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
Food Lovers Choice Award 2026
The Good Food Ireland® Food Lovers Choice Awards is open to all businesses across the island of Ireland through direct entry or public nomination and celebrates those that consistently deliver outstanding food, drink, hospitality and visitor experiences. For over two decades, Good Food Ireland® has championed businesses that connect people to Ireland through its food, drink, hospitality, culture and place. From farmers and fishermen to artisan producers, restaurants, cafés, pubs, hotels, visitor attractions and food tourism experiences, the award recognises those who showcase Irish ingredients, local sourcing, authenticity and a genuine sense of place. Entry Opens June 22nd 2026.
WILD ATLANTIC WAY
WINNER 2025 – Ard Na Sidhe Country House, Co Kerry
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
IRELAND’S ANCIENT EAST
WINNER 2025 – Ballykealy House, Co Carlow
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
IRELAND’S HIDDEN HEARTLANDS
WINNER 2025 – Wilde Irish Chocolates, Co Clare
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
DUBLIN
WINNER 2025 – Hugo’s Restaurant, Dublin
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
NORTHERN IRELAND
WINNER 2025 – Underground Dining, Co Down
FINALISTS 2026 – TBC OCTOBER 2026
WINE LIST OF THE YEAR 2025 – Sponsored By Wine Consultants Ireland
This Wine List of the Year Award celebrates a business that demonstrates excellence in wine curation, food pairing and overall guest experience, rewarding those who include Irish-made drinks. It is open for entry only from businesses in the Good Food Ireland Collection.
WINNER Cashel Palace Hotel
FINALISTS
The Red Bank Restaurant, Co Leitrim
Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel, Dublin
The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens, Co Kerry
Dunluce Lodge, Co Antrim
The Cashel Palace, Co Tipperary
Woodruff Restaurant, Co Dublin
Roly’s Bistro, Dublin
The Europe Hotel & Resort, Co Kerry
Ghan House, Co Louth
Culloden Estate & Spa, Co Down
Castle Leslie Estate, Co Monaghan
The Yellow Pepper Restaurant, Co Donegal
HOST OF THE YEAR 2026
WINNER 2025 – Louis Murphy, Dunraven Arms Hotel, Co Limerick
Overall producer of the Year 2026
The Good Food Ireland® Overall Producer of the Year recognises a food or drink producer who has made a positive impact on the irish food and/or drink industry, promoting the use of high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and demonstrating a strong emphasis on using social media to tell their story and the story of Irish farming and food/drink production to a domestic and global audience.
WINNER 2025 – Linnalla Farm Pure Irish Ice Cream, Co Clare
Lifetime Achievement Award 2026
The Good Food Ireland® Lifetime Achievement Award recognises an individual who has made a significant and lasting lifelong contribution to the Irish food and/or drink industry, dedicating their careers to supporting local producers, inspiring others and leaving a lasting legacy.
WINNER 2025 – Veronica Molloy, Crossogue Preserves, Co Tipperary
Supreme Award of the Year 2026
WINNER 2025 – Fish City, Belfast
AWARDS Tickets 2025
TICKET INFORMATION (Limited Capacity)
Ticket (Good Food Ireland Members Only) €160 + VAT
General Ticket €185 + VAT
TABLE FOR 10 PEOPLE €1800 + VAT
Dress Code: Cocktail Attire
Awards Prize
One lucky guest will win a Beautiful Seven-Piece Gio Tea set sponsored by WATERFORD.
The Gio collection was designed to encompass elegant simplicity. The seven-piece Gio tea set provides everything you need to host the perfect tea for two. Pour your favourite blend into the teacups with matching saucers and enjoy the luxurious feeling of fine bone china, embossed with a subtle geometric pattern. The teapot’s square profile brings a contemporary touch to your table, while the thoughtfully designed sugar bowl and cream jug complete this sophisticated set. The set is complimented by an opulent Gio Gold cake stand; its 22-carat gold banding and intricate geometric design, sets off the sleek white bone china.
judging panel
An independent panel of Irish and International leaders will shortlist nominees and select the overall winner following onsite mystery inspection and assessment. The public will also have the opportunity to vote online in the Food Lovers Choice Award.
Partners & Sponsors
tITLE pARTNER
From managing suppliers, staff and service; running a business takes a lot of work and dedication. FBD Insurance know what it takes, and know that a little support can mean a lot to business owners. That is why, for over 50 years, FBD Insurance has been supporting Irish businesses and business owners with great value insurance. With this kind of industry experience FBD Insurance have unrivalled knowledge of local enterprises. That’s why they can talk sincerely about their service as being the hallmark of the company’s success.
Gold Partners

Kerrygold
Kerrygold® is a proud Irish brand that retains deep tradition and enjoys a special relationship with consumers going back 60 years. The core Kerrygold® product is natural Irish premium butter, made from just two simple ingredients; cream and salt. Kerrgold® counts creaminess and deliciousness to only sourcing milk from grass-fed cows who graze on lush Irish pastures for 300 days a year.

FBD Insurance
From managing suppliers, staff and service; running a business takes a lot of work and dedication. FBD Insurance know what it takes, and know that a little support can mean a lot to business owners. That is why, for over 50 years, FBD Insurance has been supporting Irish businesses and business owners with great value insurance. With this kind of industry experience FBD Insurance have unrivalled knowledge of local enterprises. That’s why they can talk sincerely about their service as being the hallmark of the company’s success.

Roe & Co
Roe & Co distillery is the home of cocktail exploration and modern Irish whiskey. Nestled in the heart of the Liberties new energy surges through the former Guinness Power Station, where fun and flavour come to life through a truly immersive experience. This is Irish Whiskey reimagined.

Waterford
Inspired by the elements and by the Irish traditions of craftsmanship, Waterford transforms every moment into something more. The artistry and craftsmanship behind Waterford goes beyond mere form. Each piece is specially designed to heighten the pleasure of using it the way it plays with light, its satisfying weight and tactility, and the pure bright sound it emits when touched.
Host partner
Media Partner

Situated on two acres of gardens, InterContinental Dublin is the city's only true five-star urban resort, blending traditional luxury with old-school glamour.
Located in Dublin's prestigious Ballsbridge neighbourhood, the hotel is just a short stroll from the city centre and major attractions like Grafton Street, O'Connell Street, Aviva Stadium, and Guinness Storehouse.
Enjoy diverse dining options, including The Lobby Lounge, The Reading Room, and The Whiskey Bar. For business or leisure, indulge in our wellness facilities, spa experiences, or the 14-metre indoor heated pool.
Experience unmatched luxury at InterContinental Dublin, offering a unique and unforgettable stay in stunning surroundings.

IrishCentral
Headquarted in New York with an ancillary office in Dublin, IrishCentral is the trusted source for information related to Ireland and the Irish. It caters to 39 million Irish Americans and 70 million Irish diaspora and receives 2 million+ unique visitors per month.
Gold Partner
Gold Partner
GOLD Partner

We're proud to be a Gold Sponsor of the Good Food Ireland® Awards 2025, which shine a light on the people and businesses at the heart of Ireland’s food, drink and hospitality sectors. At Tourism Ireland, we know just how much local food experiences matter to visitors and how they help tell the story of our culture, heritage and sustainable way of life. Supporting these awards is a natural fit for us as we continue to promote the island of Ireland as a top destination for food lovers around the world.

Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) is delighted to support the Good Food Ireland®Awards which celebrate businesses at every layer of Ireland’s food and drink industry. Bord Iascaigh Mhara helps to develop the Irish seafood industry by providing technical expertise, business support, funding, training and promoting responsible environmental practice. Alongside the partnership we are introducing a new award the Best Irish Seafood Experience Award, sponsored by BIM.

AIB is delighted to support the Good Food Ireland®Awards which celebrate businesses at every layer of Ireland’s food and drink industry. As consumer demand for different food and drink options grow, so do opportunities to set up, grow and expand your business. Ireland is well positioned to grow our yearly food and drink exports and AIB are here to support the growth and development of your business with a wide variety of financial solutions available to support cashflow and investment needs. For more information visit : Business Finance Support to Food and Drink Industry | AIB Business.

Inspired by the elements and by the Irish traditions of craftsmanship, Waterford transforms every moment into something more. The artistry and craftsmanship behind Waterford goes beyond mere form. Each piece is specially designed to heighten the pleasure of using it the way it plays with light, its satisfying weight and tactility, and the pure bright sound it emits when touched.
SUpporting Sponsors
PARTNERSHIP & Sponsorship
As we celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Good Food Ireland® Awards, a limited number of partnership opportunities remain available for organisations wishing to align their brand with one of Ireland’s most respected food and tourism events.
Sponsoring the Awards provides a unique platform to connect with industry leaders, influential decision-makers and a highly engaged audience that values quality, sustainability, and Irish excellence.
Join us in recognising and supporting the people and businesses that continue to shape Ireland’s food and tourism story while showcasing your commitment to the sector’s future success.
For full Sponsorship Pack or to further discuss the benefits and opportunities for please contact:
Margaret Jeffares
Tel: +353 53 9158693
Email: [email protected]



