Best Possible Taste with Sharon Noonan

This Best Possible Taste guest brings a whole new meaning to 'fired up about food!' Paul Knapp, also known as the Firefighting Chef, is a recently retired professional firefighter with a lifelong passion for cooking. He chats to Sharon Noonan about his unique culinary journey and his plans in this new era. BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. VISIT WWW.SHARONNOONAN.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION AND INTERVIEWS!

In this Best Possible Taste episode, Sharon Noonan chats to Tipperary's Sinéad Delahunty, a woman of many talents! Sinead is a food creator, a passionate advocate for simple, wholesome cooking, a Gaelic footballer, a qualified physiotherapist, a food educator, cookbook author and founder of the Little Deer - a makery where food, nature and all things creativity collide! THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. Visit www.sharonnoonan.com for more details.

In this BPT episode, Sharon Noonan talks to John Shine, founder and owner of Shine's Seafood. John shares insights into the roots of the business, the challenges of sustainable fishing, and the steps that Shine's Seafood take to educate the public about seafood. BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. VISIT WWW.SHARONNOONAN.COM FOR MORE INTERVIEWS AND DETAILS.

In this Best Possible Taste episode, Sharon Noonan chats to Nina Massey, Marketing and Content Manager, at Taste of Dublin, one of Ireland's most iconic culinary celebrations, which is celebrating 20 years this year. Since its early days in the Iveagh Gardens, Taste of Dublin has grown into a must-visit event for food lovers from across the country and beyond. Now firmly settled in the beautiful surroundings of Merrion Square, the festival returns from Thursday 12th to Sunday 15th June 2025 with another incredible line-up of chefs, restaurants, experiences and, of course, flavours. For more details and to book tickets, visit www.tasteofdublin.ie BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. VISIT WWW.SHARONNOONAN.COM FOR MORE EPISODES.

In this BPT episode, we meet Kian Louët-Feisser, from the family-run Carlingford Oyster Company which was set up 50 years ago by Kian's father Peter. Today, Kian is at the helm of the business where oysters are grown in Carlingford Lough's Class A waters and sold to top chefs around the world. Best Possible Taste is Ireland's longest-running food and drink podcast. Visit www.sharonnoonan.com for more details.

In this Best Possible Taste episode, Sharon Noonan chats to Karoline Sweeney from the Castle Grove Country House Hotel in Letterkenny, County Donegal. This Blue Book, family-run Georgian property overlooks Lough Swilly and has been enchanting guests for many years. Best Possible Taste is Ireland's longest-running food and drink podcast. Visit www.sharonnoonan.com for more details.

In this episode of Best Possible Taste, Ireland's longest-running food and drink podcast, Sharon Noonan talks to chef Paddy Lee, a fellow Northern Irish native with a fascinating culinary journey. The interview was recorded in the days following Paddy's standout dinner in St Mary's Church of Ireland in Dungarvan, part of the 2025 Waterford Festival of Food. Hosted by Sharon thanks to an invitation from Eunice Power, WFOF CEO, the dinner was an unforgettable experience in a truly unique setting. The episode was released on May 4th and includes a fun Star Wars comparison—likening Paul Flynn of The Tannery to Yoda, with Paddy stepping into the role of Luke Skywalker as he hones his skills in the kitchen! BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. Visit www.sharonnoonan.com for more info about Sharon Noonan and Best Possible Taste.

In this Best Possible Taste episode, we head to West Cork to meet Max Jones from Up There the Last. Max is the creative force behind a number of exciting food and cultural events, and in this interview we hear about his Anglo Italian upbringing, life in West Cork, and look ahead at some fantastic upcoming events he's curating here in Ireland and in Italy. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. Visit www.sharonnoonan.com for more Best Possible Taste interviews. Picture credit: Doreen Kilfeather

In this Best Possible Taste episode, Sharon Noonan is joined by a true powerhouse in Ireland's food scene—Eunice Power, chef, entrepreneur, and the dynamic CEO of the Waterford Festival of Food which takes place in the picturesque harbour town of Dungarvan and its environs from the 25th to the 27th of April 2025. In this interview, Eunice provides a tantalising preview of what's in store—from mouth-watering events and top chef appearances to community celebrations and all the deliciousness that makes this festival a standout on the Irish food calendar. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. Visit www.sharonnoonan.com for more BPT interviews.

In this Best Possible Taste episode, Sharon Noonan talks to Kate Barlow from Positive Carbon, a cutting-edge tech company making waves in the hospitality industry. Despite being a relatively new player, Positive Carbon is already helping businesses tackle one of the sector's biggest challenges—food waste. Their technology provides real-time data to help restaurants, hotels, and catering companies significantly reduce waste, save money, and operate more sustainably. During the conversation, Kate shares insights on how Positive Carbon is transforming the industry, why tackling food waste is more important than ever, and how technology is shaping the future of hospitality. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST.

In this Best Possible Taste episode, we meet chef Caitlin Ruth, author of "Funky", which is the ninth book in the Blasta Book Series. Formerly head chef of Deasy's restaurant near Clonakilty, West Cork, Caitlin hails from Dublin, New Hampshire, USA, and has called Ireland her home since 1992. Listed in McKenna's 100 Best, and awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand, she now has a food truck, Caitlin Ruth Food, that serves a menu driven by seasonal food from West Cork's local growers and producers. BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. VISIT WWW.SHARONNOONAN.COM FOR MORE EPISODES AND INFORMATION.

In January, Isabella Condon was named the 2025 Gold Service Scholar and she has also been named this year's Rising Star in the 2025 Murphia List, which features the top Irish talent on the London food and drink scene. At present, Isabella is the junior assistant manager at the two-Michelin-starred Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, but her career in hospitality started when she was very young, working with her family at Marguerite's Bakery & Restaurant in Newcastle West in Co Limerick, Ireland. In this Best Possible Taste interview, Isabella talks to host Sharon Noonan about the journey that brought her to London, what the incredible Gold Service Scholar honour means to her, and what's next on her exciting path. BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. VISIT WWW.SHARONNOONAN.COM FOR MORE DETAILS & INTERVIEWS.

Orla McAndrew joins Sharon Noonan for this episode of Best Possible Taste. Orla is making waves in the world of sustainable and zero-waste cooking and has just launched her very first cookbook, Larder, number 13 in the Blasta Books' stable. "Larder" is a treasure trove of delicious recipes and clever kitchen tips designed to inspire us all to make the most of what's already in our cupboards. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. For more Best Possible Taste interviews visit www.sharonnoonan.com

On this episode of Best Possible Taste we meet Colman Power, a passionate advocate for healthier living and a more sustainable planet. Colman believes that organic food is the gold standard – whether you grow it yourself or buy it, adding organic produce to your diet benefits your health and the environment. With a master's degree in Organic Horticulture and over 10 years of hands-on growing experience, Colman is dedicated to teaching people how to cultivate their own nutritious, chemical-free food. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. Visit www.sharonnoonan.com for more information and episodes.

In this episode of Best Possible Taste, we're diving into the vibrant world of Dublin's bustling markets with someone who knows them better than anyone. Jackie Spillane is the dynamic force behind four of Dublin City's most beloved weekly markets—Herbert Park, Merrion Square, St Anne's Park, and St Patrick's Cathedral. As manager and curator, she has helped these markets thrive, each operating at full vendor capacity and showcasing an incredible array of talent and produce from across Ireland. But what makes these markets truly special is their diversity—Jackie proudly champions a community of stallholders from over 40 different nationalities, all coming together to create an unforgettable experience for visitors. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. Visit www.sharonnoonan.com for more BPT shows.

In this episode of Best Possible Taste, Ireland's longest-running food podcast, we head to Bailieborough in Co Cavan to meet a passionate food entrepreneur who is making a real impact in her local community. Lisa Mullaney is the driving force behind P3 Café, a brand-new spot that's all about fresh, local, and homemade goodness. With 95% of her suppliers being small businesses from the area, Lisa is dedicated to showcasing the best of what her community has to offer. From her homemade soups—so popular they sell out daily—to a welcoming space that caters to families, kids, and even furry friends, P3 Café is more than just a place to grab a bite; it's a hub for connection and celebration. With dine-in, drive-thru, and delivery options, plus events and workshops designed to bring people together, Lisa is creating something truly special. Visit www.sharonnoonan.com for more episodes of Best Possible Taste.

In this Best Possible Taste episode, we're diving into a story of heritage, craftsmanship, and an exciting new collaboration that brings together two iconic Irish brands. Sharon Noonan had the pleasure of visiting the picturesque fishing village of Howth in February 2025, to meet brothers Tadgh and Damian O'Meara at their family business, Kish Fish. Founded in 1966 by their father, Kish Fish has grown into one of Ireland's most respected seafood specialists, supplying the finest seafood to foodservice and retail customers across Ireland. This visit coincided with a momentous occasion for the company—a rebrand that celebrates their legacy while embracing the future. And what better way to mark this transformation than by partnering with one of the world's most famous names—GUINNESS™. This official collaboration has led to the creation of an exceptional new product: GUINNESS™ Smoked Salmon By Kish Fish. Kish Fish's rich heritage, passion, and expertise were key to them being entrusted by GUINNESS™, and given their seal of approval, to launch a Smoked Salmon cured using their signature stout that delivers a taste reflecting both brands' proud Dublin roots. The initial idea for the uniquely Irish product began life in the Guinness Storehouse, one of Kish Fish's largest customers. A couple of years ago, the Storehouse's executive chef, Sean Hunter (of Aramark), began curing Salmon in GUINNESS™ and smoking it himself in very small quantities for tourists to enjoy as part of the visitor experience at St. James's Gate. Having noted the product's potential and mass appeal, GUINNESS™ partnered with Kish Fish to further finesse the recipe and use their smoking expertise to develop a GUINNESS™ Smoked Salmon that could be crafted on a much larger scale for wider distribution - a process that they have patiently perfected at their Smokehouse in Howth over the last two years. In this episode, which was recorded in front of a live audience, you will hear Sharon chat to Tadgh and Damian about their childhood memories from when their father started the business, the impressive growth that Kish Fish has experienced and their commitment to sustainability. BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT WWW.SHARONNOONAN.COM

In this BPT interview we meet Leigh Kelly who was born and raised in South Africa and had a passion for eating chocolate from a young age. Her conversation reveals the story of why she launched Zaeire Artisan Chocolate and the origins of its name. The business has grown over the last few years, with Zaeire chocolates now being stocked in select outlets nationwide and also available in the online shop as well as a physical shop which Leigh opened in July 2021 in Bridgetown, Co Wexford. BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. VISIT WWW.SHARONNOONAN.COM FOR MORE DETAILS.

In this Best Possible Taste episode, we meet Dave Lang from the from the Irish Craft Butchers Association. Dave is a meat expert and butcher with over 40 years experience in meat preparation, butchery training & judging. During the conversation with Sharon Noonan, lots of butcher-related topics are covered, including the World Butchers Challenge in Paris that takes place in March 2025. The last time it took place was in 2018 in Belfast and the Irish team were the winners. BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. VISIT WWW.SHARONNOONAN.COM FOR MORE DETAILS.

In this Best Possible Taste episode Sharon Noonan chats to the Asia Market's Eva Pau. Asia Market has curated a special series of experiences to celebrate Chinese Lunar New Year 2025 which runs from January 29th to February 12th 2025. It is the ‘Year of the Snake' and festivities focus on Chinese customs, culture, and cuisine. Eva shares details about how to get involved in the celebrations and time-honoured Chinese traditions. BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. VISIT WWW.SHARONNOONAN.COM FOR MORE DETAILS.

In the first 2025 episode of Best Possible Taste, Sharon Noonan talks to Helen Bracken from Fox Covert Farm in Co Offaly. Helen and her family are a fifth-generation farming family who have a strong interest in sustainable farming and environmental protection. Helen shares the Fox Covert Farm story and what inspired them to become growers of hemp seed in a 100% natural, pesticide, fungicide and herbicide-free environment. BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. VISIT WWW.SHARONNOONAN.COM FOR MORE EPISODES.

In this episode of the Best Possible Taste Sharon Noonan talks to Lisa Wilkinson from The Wicklow Escape. From exquisite food to immersive stays, Lisa's passion for sustainable and seasonal dining truly sets The Wicklow Escape apart. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST. Visit www.sharonnoonan.com for more episodes.

In this interview we meet Aisling McGann from SiSú, a Limerick-based brand that produces nutritious wholesome beverages using solely plant-based ingredients and adopting sustainable practices. Aisling's father Brian founded the company a number of years ago and Aisling shares its background and the journey that brought her home to work in the family business. Best Possible Taste is Ireland's longest running food and drink podcast. Visit www.sharonnoonan.com for more information.

In this Best Possible Taste episode, we meet the remarkable Sally Barnes, founder of the renowned and multi-award winning Woodcock Smokery in West Cork, Ireland. A true pioneer in the art of fish smoking, Sally is the only producer in Ireland who smokes exclusively wild fish, sourced responsibly. This interview reveals Sally's inspiring journey, her passion for preserving heritage skills, and the secrets behind her exceptional creations. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK PODCAST.

In this episode Sharon Noonan talks to Ciara O Brien owner of Barnahown B&B in Mitchelstown, Co Cork. Barnahown is a luxurious new low-impact guesthouse that featured in RTÉ's At Your Service in October 2024. BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST RUNNING FOOD AND DRINK PODAST AND FIRST AIRED ON WEST LIMERICK 102FM IN 2013. VISIT WWW.SHARONNOONAN.COM FOR MORE DETAILS.

In this Best Possible Taste episode we meet Malte Half who is the head chef at Glas, the renowned plant-based Irish restaurant, in Ireland that recently celebrated five years of culinary excellence. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD AND DRINK PODCAST AND CELEBRATED 10 YEARS ON AIR IN 2023. For more Best Possible Taste episodes visit www.sharonnoonan.com

In this episode of Best Possible Taste we travel to Northern Ireland to visit the 2024 Invest NI Food and Drink Showcase. First, we will hear from Grainne Moody, Interim Director, Invest NI Food & Drink Division. After Grainne sets the scene for the showcase, we meet a series of producers who took part in it. Carlos Capparelli has details about Capparelli Artisan Pasta. Jack Coulter shares the Crust & Crumb Bakery story. Tim McCarthy from Blackfire Food Ltd gives us an update from the last time we talked to him at the Balmoral show earlier this year. Kate McIldowney gives an insight into the ethos of Slim's Healthy Kitchen and finally we celebrate the recent award success of Clandeyboye Estate yoghurt with Bryan Boggs. Best Possible Taste is Ireland's longest-running food and drink podcast. For more episodes of Best Possible Taste visit www.sharonnoonan.com

In this interview, we meet Aisling Kelly Hunter from the Sligo Oyster experience who won the BIM Seafood Innovation award at this year's Blas na hÉireann/Irish food awards THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD AND DRINK RADIO SHOW AND PODCAST AND CELEBRATED 10 YEARS ON AIR IN 2023.

I recently had the pleasure of attending Michelle Darmody's book launch. Seed to Supper is a beautiful book and I was delighted to have Michelle on the Best Possible Taste to tell us about it. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD AND DRINK RADIO SHOW AND PODCAST AND CELEBRATED 10 YEARS ON AIR IN 2023.

Birgitta Hedin Curtin is no stranger to the Best Possible Taste and is always a welcome guest! The founder of the multi-award-winning Burren Smokehouse is celebrating 35 years in business as well as more prestigious awards. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD AND DRINK RADIO SHOW AND PODCAST AND CELEBRATED 10 YEARS ON AIR IN 2023.

We head to Northern Ireland for this episode of Best Possible Taste to meet Jim Nash from the Wild Atlantic Distillery James Huey shares the story of the Walled City Brewery. Best Possible Taste is Ireland's longest-running food and drink radio show and podcast. On air since 2013!

Kate Ryan is an award-winning food writer originally from the UK but now resident in beautiful West Cork.  In 2023 Kate was the Blas na hÉireann Producers' Champion and Food Story Teller of the Year.  In this interview Kate chats about her career to date which includes recently completing a Masters at UCC. BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST RUNNING FOOD AND DRINK RADIO SHOW AND PODCAST AND CELEBRATED 11 YEARS ON AIR IN SEPTEMBER 2024.

In this interview Will Taylor and Emma Connolly from Glastry Farm in Northern Ireland share the Glastry Farm story which features a number of awards for their range of icecreams and sorbets. BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD AND DRINK RADIO SHOW AND PODCAST.

Blanca Valencia shares details about Eat Spain Drink Spain which will be taking place across the country in October, bringing together Ireland's finest restaurants, retailers, and hospitality venues to present the best of traditional and modern Spanish fare. Food and drink enthusiasts will have a unique opportunity to explore the delicious offerings of Spain through tastings, wine dinners, tapas trails, interactive workshops, and a unique programme of events – all without leaving the country! BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD AND DRINK RADIO SHOW AND PODCAST!

In this interview, the multi-talented Anthony O'Toole who is an international specialist in travel, Irish gastronomy, sustainability and design, gives an insight into his career and shares details about his latest venture, Fat Tomato, an edible garden located in the southeast of Ireland that produces over 500 heritage varieties of fruit, herbs, and vegetables. BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD AND DRINK RADIO SHOW AND PODCAST!

OLLIE HORTON is originally from the Channel Island of Guernsey, but in 2013 he settled in Lanzarote where he has worked in both the tourism and property sectors. He has always enjoyed a glass of wine (or two!) and has developed his knowledge of winemaking and viticulture. which particularly fascinated him on Lanzarote. In this interview, Sharon Noonan chats to Ollie to find out more about the journey that led him to Wine Tours Lanzarote. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE CELEBRATED 10 YEARS ON AIR IN 2023 MAKING IT IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK RADIO SHOW & PODCAST.

Máirtín Mac Con Iomaire is the co-editor of "Irish Food History: A Companion" (published September 2024) which Darina Allen described as a landmark publication in the growing field of Irish food studies and food history. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE CELEBRATED 10 YEARS ON AIR IN 2023 MAKING IT IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK RADIO SHOW & PODCAST.

Karyn Booth is a professional food stylist and food writer. From working with chefs of the highest standard to styling food for The Game of Thrones, her story is fascinating. Best Possible Taste is Ireland's longest-running food and drink radio show and podcast celebrating 11 years on air this month!

In this Best Possible Taste interview we hear the Zanna Cookhouse story thanks to found Owen Mullins. The Wexford company was founded in 2007 and makes award-winning quiches and pies. Best Possible Taste is Ireland's longest-running food and drink radio show and podcast celebrating 11 years on air this month!

Lynda Coogan is the founder of Wine Tasting Ireland and a wine expert taking the snobbery out of wine. In this BPT extract she talks to Sharon Noonan about her passion for wine as well as one of the many strings to her bow - a self-study wine class. Best Possible Taste is Ireland's longest running food and drink radio show and podcast and celebrated 10 years on air in 2023.

Vic Sprake is one half of the husband-wife duo behind Camus Farm in Clonakilty, West Cork, Ireland. In this Best Possible Taste interview, Vic tells Sharon Noonan about the farm, its ethos and their award-winning Field Kitchen Restaurant which is celebrating its fourth season. Best Possible Taste is Ireland's longest running food and drink radio show and podcast and celebrated 10 years on air in 2023.

In this Best Possible Taste interview we meet wine specialist Sinead Smyth to find out about her dynamic career to date which includes being the Chair of Wine Spirit Women, an Alumni of the Mad Feed and LOTS MORE! THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE CELEBRATED 10 YEARS ON AIR IN 2023 MAKING IT IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK RADIO SHOW & PODCAST. For more Best Possible Taste interviews visit www.sharonnoonan.com

In this Best Possible Taste interview we meet Andalusian native Cinta Ramblada to find out about her renamed eatery - Choquera Bistro & Bakery in Newport, Co Tipperary, Ireland. Cinta will be cooking up a Spanish storm as she hosts traditional Tapas Nights throughout the summer months and into the autumn that proudly showcase authentic Andalusian dishes from her home city of Huelva - the provincial port from where Christopher Columbus famously set sail on his own journey of discovery in 1492. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE CELEBRATED 10 YEARS ON AIR IN 2023 MAKING IT IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK RADIO SHOW & PODCAST. For more Best Possible Taste interviews visit www.sharonnoonan.com

In this Best Possible Taste podcast, Sharon Noonan brings you to Taste of Dublin 2024 which took place in Dublin's Merrion Square. First up Sharon talks to TV chef Erica Drum who was the MC and host of the cookery demo stage. Then we head into the Valentia Island Vermouth cabin to meet Orla and Anna Snook O Carroll, the wife and wife team behind Ireland's award-winning vermouth. And later on in the programme Declan MacManus from Howth's King Sitric Seafood Bar and Accommodation shares his memories of the early days shucking oysters at Taste of Dublin and gives us an insight into the family business. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST RUNNING FOOD & DRINK RADIO SHOW AND PODCAST AND CELEBRATED 10 YEARS ON AIR IN 2023. FOR MORE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE INTERVIEWS VISIT WWW.SHARONNOONAN.COM

In this Best Possible Taste interview, Sharon Noonan is joined by Dvir Nusery and Nicola Crowley from Mezze in Tramore, Co Waterford who are celebrating 5 years in business. Mezze has become a firm favourite with foodies from all over travelling to sample their Middle Eastern delights. The dynamic husband and wife duo, Chef Dvir Nusery and Food Entrepreneur Nicola Crowley have worked tirelessly over these last five years, to combine simple locally produced food with Middle Eastern flavours to create innovative and mouth-watering deli style offerings. Believe it or not, it all started on a glacier in New Zealand! Nicola, from Ireland, met Dvir, from Israel and their love, life and culinary adventure started from there. Fast forward a few years, marriage and two kids later, Dvir and Nicola began working on their dream Mezze. From humble beginnings working in Nicola's mother's kitchen with Dvir cooking up a selection of his favourite dips, salads and breads usually served at the start of the meal in the Middle East they started to turn their dream into reality. With a small pop-up tent at the Harvest Festival in Waterford city in 2015 Mezze was born and the business grew from there. In 2019, the couple made the leap of opening a bricks and mortar place in their hometown of Tramore. They'd been working at festivals, farmers markets, doing pop up dinners and cooking classes and wanted a place of their own to do all of that and more. Mezze HQ is a dynamic space for foodies with plenty of personality and great food. It runs as a deli, café and shop by day with cooking classes and events by night. Speaking on the milestone Dvir said “As we celebrate 5 years in business we are filled with immense pride and gratitude for the incredible journey we've been on. Mezze has featured on TV, radio, print and digital, we've published a cookbook, opened an online store, journalists, celebrities and influencers come visit and so much more, it's been truly amazing! None of this would have been possible without the support of our customers, the hard work of our team, and the partnerships we've forged along the way. We look forward to continuing to serve our community and delivering exceptional Middle Eastern food for years to come!” Nicola commented “In honour of our 5th anniversary, Mezze will be hosting special events, promotions, and giveaways throughout the month of May. These celebrations serve as a token of appreciation for the continued support and patronage of its customers and the entire Mezze community so keep a close eye in-store, on our website and across our social media channels.” Mezze is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9.30am till 3pm. To find out more about Mezze, purchase their cookbook or a delicious food hamper simply visit mezze.ie.

Food/drink/travel writer and curator Ali Dunworth is no stranger to the Best Possible Taste. In this interview, Ali gives an insight into her first book “A Compendium of Irish Pints: The Culture, Customs and Craic” which is published by Nine Bean Rows Books with illustrations by Stephen Heffernan AKA Hephee. In Ireland, a pint – having one, going for one, buying one – is a cultural institution. It's so much more than 568ml of beer in a glass. But how did a simple pint become such a phenomenon? Like all great superheroes, the pint has its own origin story, a full-bodied narrative that explains how the beloved beverage came into being and part of everyday life. In A Compendium of Irish Pints, journalist (and pint lover) Ali Dunworth delves into the culture, customs and craic surrounding pints in Ireland. Beginning with the birth of beer and traversing through Ireland's unique drinking journey from the Brehon Laws to invasions, Ali shares why ‘going for a pint' means so much more than just going for a pint. From the ubiquitous airport and after-work pints to the importance of beer mats, seeking out pints in snugs, discussing hangovers or eating crisps for dinner, Ali leaves no type of pint unturned (or undrunk!). Covering etiquette to expressions, pints for celebrations and pints for commiserations, festival pints, old man's pubs and everything in between, A Compendium of Irish Pints shows why this popular beverage is integral to Irish society and why it has been migrating further afield. With illustrations by Stephen Heffernan, aka Hephee, that perfectly captures the culture of pints in his iconic style, you'll find yourself working up a thirst and sending that text we all love to get: ‘Fancy a pint?' Ali's book is available to buy at the following link: https://ninebeanrowsbooks.com/products/pints

In this Best Possible Taste interview we meet Cherie Denham, a cook, baker, preserver and author. Originally from Northern Ireland, Cherie now lives in Hampshire in the UK and recently collaborated with Montgomery Press to publish “The Irish Bakery." THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE CELEBRATED 10 YEARS ON AIR IN 2023 MAKING IT IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK RADIO SHOW & PODCAST. For more BPT interviews visit sharonnoonan.com

In this Best Possible Taste excerpt, Sharon Noonan meets Claire Crerand, Visitor Experience Operations Manager at J & J McConnell's Distillery and Visitor Experience. Claire shared details about McConnell's Distillery which is Belfast's latest addition to the food and drink tourism scene. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE CELEBRATED 10 YEARS ON AIR IN 2023 MAKING IT IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD & DRINK RADIO SHOW & PODCAST. For more Best Possible Taste interviews, visit www.sharonnoonan.com

Bord Bia Bloom returns to Phoenix Park on Thursday 30 May 2024 and continues over the bank holiday weekend until Monday 3 June 2024. It is described as a world-class, uplifting, innovative horticulture, food, and drink experience with nature and sustainable living. Ballymaloe Foods has been attending the event for several years and in this Best Possible Taste extract general manager Maxine Hyde shares the news that the company will be launching a new product at Bloom 2024. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD AND DRINK RADIO SHOW AND CELEBRATED 10 YEARS ON AIR IN 2023. For more Best Possible Taste interviews, visit www.sharonnoonan.com

In this Best Possible Taste extract, we return to the 2024 Balmoral Show to meet Alanna McKeever from Long Meadow Cider and Laura Short Murphy founder of Sliced the recently launched OatCo. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST-RUNNING FOOD AND DRINK RADIO SHOW AND PODCAST AND CELEBRATED 10 YEARS ON AIR IN 2023. For more Best Possible Taste interviews, visit www.sharonnoonan.com

In this Best Possible Taste interview, we meet Paul Carroll from Ghan House. Ghan House is a beautiful Blue Book property located in medieval Carlingford in Co Louth, Ireland. THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE IS IRELAND'S LONGEST RUNNING FOOD AND DRINK PODCAST AND CELEBRATED 10 YEARS ON AIR IN 2023. For more BPT interviews visit www.sharonnoonan.com