Focus on Food Conference 2023

News article

Conference exploring the future of food, drink and hospitality within Northern Ireland’s economy

Food, drink and hospitality make a significant contribution to the economy and culture of Northern Ireland. The industry shapes the experience for many, drives economic activity and stimulates national and international tourism.

Key topics of this Focus on Food conference include:

  • nurturing talent
  • sustainability best practice
  • what makes a great food destination
  • new voices: finding success in a competitive world.
  • how to engage with Belfast's newly established Food and Drink Network

Who should attend Focus on Food 2023?

Anyone working or studying in the hospitality and tourism industries including chefs, restaurateurs, front of house staff, hoteliers, producers, farmers, distributors, food tourism professionals, students and venue managers.

Speaker Line up

  • Grace Dent, restaurant critic, The Guardian
  • Chris McClurg, Chef Patron, Paul Ainsworth's No. 6 (and Great British Menu winner)
  • Anna Pollock, Strategist on regenerative hospitality and tourism
  • Gemma Austin, Chef Patron, A Peculiar Tea (and Great British Menu finalist)
  • Skye Gyngell, Chef Patron, Spring and Heckfield Place
  • Giles Gibbons, Co Founder, Sustainable Restaurant Association
  • Conor Spacy, Founder, Food Space, Dublin
  • Vinny Hurrell, BBC Radio Ulster
  • Robin Gill, Chef Proprietor, Darby's group, London

In addition to hearing from industry experts, participants will have the opportunity to interact and make connections with food colleagues and peers from across Northern Ireland.

Conference details

Date: Tuesday 28 March 2023
Time: 9am to 4:30pm
Venue: ICC Belfast, 2 Lanyon Place Belfast, BT1 3WH
Cost: £33.22 / Student ticket: £11.55

Book your ticket now.

First published 14 February 2023.