Northern Ireland, which is part of the UK, has a history deeply rooted in conflict and division, with its past shaped by decades of unrest and political turmoil. However, during my journey to Londonderry, Derry—I discovered a city that is redefining itself. Derry has and is shifting its focus from its volatile past to a vibrant, exciting future that celebrates its rich food and drink scene.

As I wandered through the streets of this walled city (it’s the only fully walled city in the UK), I was not only struck by the warmth of its people and the craic but by the diversity of produce and talented chefs that are returning home in their droves. Derry is transforming into a haven for food enthusiasts.

But its not just the food that’s wandering into the spotlight, its Derry’s craft beer breweries, artisan distilleries, and charming pubs that add yet another dimension to its thriving culture.

LEGENDERRY - A VISIT TO DERRY IN NORTHERN IRELAND TO EXPERIENCE THEIR FOOD AND DRINK SCENE

You’ll recognise Derry from the hit series *Derry Girls* which shone a spotlight on Derry, showcasing the charming walled city. Derry is a small city, but it has loads to offer. Its compact and super easy to get about as its fairly flat with the Peace Bridge spanning across the River Foyle making exploring extremely accessible.

For the smoothest journey, I recommend taking a taxi directly from Belfast International to Derry. The trip costs around £80 and takes just over an hour. Alternatively, you could take a taxi to Belfast train station (a 30-40 minute ride costing approximately £40), and then hop on a train to Derry. The train journey is scenic but longer, taking around 2.5 hours.

I was visiting Derry for Legenderry - a Food and Drink initiative that showcases local producers, chefs, and artisans. The initiative includes events like the Love LegenDerry Food Month of February, where visitors can enjoy unique experiences such as food tours, cookery classes, seafood, and tastings of local beer, cheese, and more.

Legenderry, has been running for the past three years and is putting Derry on the culinary map, carving out a spot in Northern Ireland as a must-visit destination for food lovers.

Derry is situated in an idyllic location with the River Foyle running through the centre providing a source of abundant fresh fish and seafood; and surrounded by fertile lands contributing to the production of high quality vegetables, fruits and herbs. The River Foyle really is the life line for this regions food culture, providing both inspiration and sustenance for its now thriving and vibrant gastronomy.

I began my Legenderry adventure with a launch dinner at the Walled City Brewery. The evening was a tribute to the region's rich and diverse culinary heritage, where I had the pleasure of indulging in the finest LegenDerry cuisine. The event highlighted exceptional local produce, talented chefs, and one-of-a-kind food experiences, making it a true celebration of gastronomy.

During the drinks reception, local producers were available to share insights and chat about their products. The tasting menu featured ingredients from over ten local producers, with each course expertly prepared by one of five top local chefs from renowned restaurants across the city.

The seven course culinary journey through Derry started with Native Flatbed Oysters from Foyle Bia Mara paired with Foysters Beer from the Walled City Brewery.

The Acorn Farm Cauliflower with almonds, lemongrass, coconut, black garlic and samphire served with Scarpello sourdough and hand churned caramelised butter, cooked by Chef Chris Moran from the Walled City Brewery and paired with Northbound 04 Brewer’s Lager, was outstanding.

Next was the Salmon Nigiri with yuzu gel and wasabi tobiko, Bluefin tuna tartare in a feuille de brick tartlet with furikake and ponzu, Crab uramaki with avocado, cucumber and shiso leaf, created by Chef Sean Lafferty from Umi featuring seafood from Donegal Prime Fish and paired with Umi’s own beer produced by the Rough Brothers. Gorgeous bites of fresh seafood!

The fourth course was 24 hour pork belly, Langoustine bisque mousse, satay, wild garlic and seasonal vegetables cooked by husband and wife team, Chefs Mark and Shauna Froydenlund from The Exchange Restaurant using William Grant and Co, Moore on the Quay and Acorn Farm produce, paired with Redgate Cider. A stunning dish, exceptional pairing.

Moving onto something sweeter, it was the Amalfi Lemon Vodka, Limavady honey, oat sable, jelly and yoghurt created by Chef Leigh Thurston from the Edbrington Hotel using Wild Atlantic Distillery vodka and paired with their Amalfi Lemon Vodka drink that really shook up the tastebuds.

The cheeses were special. A selection of Dart Mountain cheeses with Wee Crafty beer drizzles produced by Julie and Kevin Hickey and paired with Islandmen Whiskey from Wild Atlantic Distillery.

To finish the evening, it was Monto Chocolates paired with Brandy Ball Poitin ‘Snifter’ from Walled City Brewery. It certainly takes your breath away!

I spent three days in Derry, with plenty of time to explore—naturally centred around food and drink.

Here are my TOP FOOD & DRINK MUST STOPS in Derry:

THE BAKERY -My first stop was the lively Bakery, buzzing with activity as it served a delicious array of hot and cold dishes, aromatic coffees, indulgent hot chocolates, and an irresistible selection of cakes and traybakes. www.thebakeryebrington.com

THE EDBRINGTON HOTEL - The Ebrington Hotel offers more than just a comfortable stay and a relaxing spa experience. Its breakfast is a delight, the pub serves exceptional scones and afternoon tea, and the Oak Room, a two AA Rosette restaurant is a stunning addition to Derry's vibrant culinary scene. www.theebringtonhotel.com

NACIONAL DE CUBA - For a vibrant atmosphere and exceptional margaritas, make your way to Nacional de Cuba. Their cocktail menu is brimming with creativity, and they can quickly craft just about any fruity-flavoured margarita you desire.

POMME & FRITES - For the most mouthwatering Wagyu beef burgers in town, make your way to Pomme and Frites. These burgers are irresistibly juicy and delicious, served with a generous helping of perfectly crispy fries. www.pykenpommes.ie/

STITCH & WEAVE - For stunning views of the River Foyle, exceptional cocktails, and even better food, Stitch and Weave is the place to be. This charming spot comes alive during the summer, boasting a fantastic outdoor seating area that's perfect for soaking up the atmosphere. www.thestitchandweave.com

If you're up for a FOOD TOUR around Derry, complete with 7-8 delicious eating and drinking stops over a scenic four-hour guided walking tour, look no further than Derry by Fork. It kicks off at Ebrington Square, starting at the Ebrington Hotel, where you'll savour the Chef's take on an Eggs Benedict Scotch Egg. From there, you'll stroll across the Peace Bridge to the Guildhall Taphouse for a chat with Rough Brothers Brewery and a beer tasting.

A 10-12 minute walk brings you to Pyke n' Pommes and Moore on the Quay for some delectable fish tacos. Next, you'll get hands-on with a build-your-own taco experience at Guapo. The final food stop takes you to Umi for sushi and dumplings, before the tour wraps up at the Walled City Brewery with a choice of beer or gin.

What I loved most about this tour was the opportunity to meet and chat with the producers and hear directly from the chefs. It truly allows you to experience their passion firsthand and understand the drive behind their incredible creations in this part of Northern Ireland. Their pride in being from Derry and their commitment to putting it firmly on Northern Ireland's culinary map is truly inspiring.

While Derry remains deeply connected to its rich history, it is also forging a vibrant new identity that highlights its food and drink. The city is quickly becoming a must-visit destination, celebrated not only for its historical importance but also for its exciting and flavourful culinary offerings.

For more information visit www.legenderryfood.com and then book your next foodie adventure to Derry!

FOOD & DRINK : Become a food legend in the home of the Derry Girls - Londonderry, Derry, Ireland