'Exceptional' - nine Kilkenny businesses nominated for Irish Food Awards
Kilkenny's food quality has been recognised at a national level
The finalists for Blas na hÉireann, the Irish Food Awards, have been announced, with nine producers from Kilkenny making it through to the final stage of the competition.
Now in its 19th year, Blas na hÉireann has more than 3,000 entries submitted from across the island, with a record number of new producers taking part.
The number of food and drink categories has also increased from 170 to over 200 this year.
Bronze, silver and gold awards are presented across the food and drink categories, alongside major accolades including Supreme Champion, supported by Bord Bia and Best Artisan Producer, supported by the LEO Network.
The judging, which took place over June and July in partnership with UCC and TU Dublin, is blind-tasted and scored by a network of expert judges, including chefs, buyers, academics, restaurateurs, and industry leaders. Only the top entries from each category make it to the finalist stage.
The finalists shortlisted locally are from across a wide range of categories. Arán Bakery & Bistro, Cafe la Coco, Callan Bacon, Goatsbridge Fish Processors Ltd, Highbank Orchard, Karro Food Ltd - Cookstown, Lekker Food Collection, McCarthy's SuperValu, Newpark Shopping Centre Kilkenny and Tirlán have all received the nod.
"Kilkenny is home to an incredible wealth of passionate food producers and exceptional local produce, and these awards play an important role in celebrating and showing their achievements,” commented John Mulcahy of the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) in Kilkenny.
“Every one of the county's producers has done Kilkenny proud this weekend,” he continued.
"The quality and creativity of this year's entries have been outstanding, showcasing the talent, innovation and dedication of food and drink producers across Ireland,” said Blas na hÉireann Chairperson Artie Clifford.
“Blas is all about celebrating these producers and giving them the recognition they deserve, and we look forward to welcoming them to Dingle this October." she added.
This year’s Blas na hÉireann weekend will see the return of the hugely popular Eat Ireland in a Day market and the Blas Village, where 2026 finalists can showcase their products, connect with buyers, and meet with fellow producers, media and food lovers from across the country.
With producer education and growth at the forefront once again, this year’s event will continue to build on its community support for producers and support a more conscious future for Irish food.
Continuing this focus on education and collaboration, The Backyard at Blas, supported by Bank of Ireland, will return this year as an integral part of the Blas experience. Bringing together inspiring speakers and fellow producers, it offers a dedicated space for learning and networking.