Adrian Martin, Kevin Dundon and Karan Mittal share their thoughts on why the Irish have become such foodies and how they stay slim despite their love of food.
Why do you think the Irish have become such foodies?
I think it's down to our produce, restaurants and food festivals. We've incredible food producers in every area of the country, each doing something unique and local. What's amazing about travelling, is you find different specialities in each county.
Our restaurants have really upped their standards over the last few years and that's down to the knowledge and sharing from the different chefs. I do the Yes Chef magazine cycle every year with several different chefs, where we swap ideas, recipes and just talk generally about food. It's always great to get on with others in the same area. And finally, our great festivals. Celebrating each year, the best we have to offer, just like the Taste of Dublin.
Why do you think events like Taste are so popular?
These events are so popular as they bring people with a common interest together. Everyone loves to eat good quality food, and celebrate it. Plus, being Irish, we all love a great day/night out!
Whenever you need to lose a few pounds, what works for you to shed them?
I normally keep an eye on what I'm eating and set a challenge for myself, such as a 5k charity run. I find that motivates me to go out and exercise.
Being surrounded by food all the time, what exercise do you do to stay in shape?
Mainly running. I find it's great to also clear the head and you can run almost anywhere.
Why do you think the Irish have become such foodies?
We have all become more aware of food, and where and how it is produced. We have some of the best ingredients in the world, from beef, lamb, chicken and fish, and sweet, delicate seafood from the seas that surround our country.
We have travelled more, we bring back recipes we want to share, there’s a wider variety of ingredients available than ever before and we want to use them.
Why do you think events like Taste are so popular?
Taste is four days of eating, drinking and entertainment – what’s not to love?
Whenever you need to lose a few pounds, what works for you to shed them?
I love to row on the river, I’d like to do it a lot more than I do at present, it’s a great work out and great for toning up.
Being surrounded by food all the time, what exercise do you do to stay in shape?
I am nearly constantly on my feet the whole time, that’s one of the downfalls of being a Chef, the long hours standing so I don’t put on weight too easily.
I am also busy planting and watering the garden, it’s a great source of inspiration to me and a place of solace, and a great work out too!
Why do you think the Irish have become such foodies?
I think it’s the increase of food awareness and so many good places to eat. The global influence of social media and personalities like Rachel Allen and chefs like Ross Lewis and JP Mc Mahon have elevated the Irish food scene.
Why do you think events like Taste are so popular?
It’s a platform for people to connect with food and it’s a chance for chefs to showcase their philosophy of food to the people.
Whenever you need to lose a few pounds, what works for you to shed them?
Nothing beats a morning run and yoga for me. Plus, I tend to avoid meals after 9pm.
Being surrounded by food all the time, what exercise do you do to stay in shape?
Definitely morning yoga and I also regularly go for walks as well.
Tickets for Taste of Dublin are on sale from €15 - please go to www.tasteofdublin.ie
