For the first time, the Channel Island of Guernsey is holding a large scale food festival with the Guernsey International Food Festival from 18th-27th September. The ten day food bonanza will harness the island's delicious local produce and unique dishes in special dinners, tours and interactive events. As well as cook offs and live cooking demonstrations there will be plenty of opportunities to sample the islands one-of-a-kind gastronomy which has grown from its position as an island between England and France.
Big Guernsey Market
Saturday 19 - Sunday 20 September, 10am - 6pm
Crown Pier, St Peter Port
This will be the Channel Islands' biggest food and drink event of the year. Head to stalls from local producers including Haut Maison fruit liqueurs, Fresh Guernsey Herbs and Torteval Cheese for tastings. Be sure to visit hot food stalls from the island's leading restaurants such as Old Government House and Bella Luce or the hog roast from Porky's, the local pork producer. For a relaxing drink raise a glass of local Rocquette cider, White Rock beer or Liberation ale. Don't miss the Beach BBQ Cook-Off, where local chefs will compete to produce the tastiest barbecue dish.
Seriously Seafood Supper
Friday 18 September, 7pm for 7.30pm
The Restaurant at Beaucette Marina (www.beaucetterestaurant.com)
Beaucette Marina sits on the northern tip of Guernsey and its restaurant has fantastic views overlooking the island's private marina, Guernsey's sister islands and France in the distance. The Seriously Seafood Supper features a welcome drink on the terrace, followed by an exquisite three course dinner of local Guernsey seafood created by local chef James Scowen. The dishes will be matched with wines by local merchant Bucktrouts.
Guernsey Beer & Cider Festival
Saturday 26 - Sunday 27 September, Noon - 8pm (Saturday), noon - 6pm (Sunday)
Market Square, St Peter Port (marketplaceguernsey.co.uk)
Enjoy local beers and ciders from island producers including Randalls, Rocquette and White Rock Brewery, alongside a selection of international craft beers, at the first Guernsey Beer & Cider Festival. The festival will feature live music throughout the day and hearty hot food available from the Market Bistro. Free entry.
Guernsey Gin Supper
Saturday 26 September, 7pm for 7.30pm
Bella Luce, Guernsey (bellalucehotel.com)
Head chef of two AA Rosette restaurant, the Bella Luce will create a four course tasting menu with dishes expertly paired with gin and vermouth from Guernsey and UK based distilleries. Challenge preconceptions of spirit and food matching at this fun and informative evening of food and drink.
Live Food Show
Saturday 19 - Sunday 20 September, noon - 6pm
Crown Pier, St Peter Port
The crème de la crème of Guernsey's chefs will be taking to the Live Food Show stage to showcase their culinary skills. Enjoy demos and tasters from island chefs including Channel Islands Chef of the Year 2015 Pascal Lemoine (from Old Government House). The stage also features the Great Guernsey Mix Off Competition with the island's leading cocktail mixologists going head-to-head in speed rounds.
Food Lab
Tuesday 22 September, 7pm for 7.30pm
Leopard Restaurant, Duke of Richmond hotel, St Peter Port, Guernsey (www.dukeofrichmond.com)
Five of the island's leading chefs will be randomly matched with five top producers, and challenged to create an inspired tasting dish that pushes the boundaries of creativity and gastronomy. The chefs will be paired with local producers including White Rock Brewery, Torteval Cheese, Fresh Guernsey Herbs, Haut Maison liqueurs and Guernsey Mushrooms.
Make Your Case
Friday 25 September, 7pm-10pm
Hatton Gallery, Castle Cornet, St Peter Port
The island's leading vintners and sommeliers will be challenged to make their case to a voting audience. Each has three minutes to present a favourite wine; the only catch is they can't mention the grape variety, country of origin or price, so guests are tasting blind. There will also be platters of food from the local cookery school, Sueco.
Three chefs go to the movies
Wednesday 23 September, 7pm for 7.30pm
Market Bistro, Market Square, St Peter Port, Guernsey (www.marketbistroguernsey.com)
Chef of Guernsey restaurant Market Bistro, Shaun MacDonald is joined by two colleagues for a fun evening of film-inspired food. Each chef picks a favourite movie and creates a dish inspired by it. Expect a few interactive surprises at what promises to be a meal with a difference!
