Kevin serves up some Christmas cheer
CHRISTMAS is big business and celebrity chef Kevin Dundon has smelled an opportunity at his Dunbrody Country House Hotel, where he has launched festive Sunday markets in the run up to the big day.
Taking place every Sunday from noon till 4 p.m., the markets feature guest chef cookery demonstrations. In the grand old tradition of the previous owners of the Dunbrody Estate, current owners Kevin and Catherine Dundon have brought back the Dunbrody Market. Kevin said: ‘ There are lots of new twists of course as the theme is most definitely Christmas. We have been looking to the famous European Christmas markets to include not only our own signature Christmas cakes, puddings, chutneys and jams made here in the kitchens of Dunbrody House but also some interesting additions each week such as Christmas log reindeer, wreaths, artisan candles, arts and crafts.’
Local artisan food producers are very much on board, with offerings such as organic chickens from Mary Regan, crusty pies, cakes, preserves, spices and a host of other surprises available to buy.
‘ The gift ideas are fantastic with some gorgeous aromatherapy jewellery, hand made soaps and bath bombs, origami, woodcrafts and custom-made cards.’
With blue skies and fabulous winter sunshine the mood was buzzing from the start of the first festive market to take place in The Local. Business was brisk from the get-go, Kevin said, with a full house of Dunbrody hotel guests choosing to browse the stalls before they headed home after a weekend on the Hook. Freshly-baked breads and scones from the Dunbrody kitchens were first to sell out followed quickly by the smoke-roasted chickens from Kevin’s new smoker. There was plenty of sampling to be had (cheesecake, Christmas cake, Christmas pudding, brownies), and with the Jazz Brunch in full swing too, guests definitely stayed most of the afternoon.
The Local at the Dunbrody is one of several great venues offering Christmas fun this season, while enjoying shopping and hot, tasty food.