Avonmore Irish Barista of the Year Niall Wynn

National Cocktail Champion, Ilario Alberto Caparo

 

Senior and Junior Chefs of the Year Tobias Streitenberger and Maria Sweeney

Catex 2017 saw almost 12,000 visitors descend on the RDS, Simmonscourt, making it the biggest turnout for the exhibition to date, with footfall up by almost 10%. Organised by the Irish Foodservice Suppliers Alliance, the Catex 2017 exhibitor stands were both impressive and engaging, with Catex sponsors, Calor revealing a new look, and Bunzl offering up innovative business solutions and cost saving ideas. Over 250 companies showcased innovative products and services, so visitors had a wealth of new products to see, taste and explore.

A hotly-anticipated feature of Catex 2017 was the Euro-Toques Ireland Chefs Masterclasses. Many of Ireland’s top culinary talents took to the stage for live demos and to share their tips with a packed audience. Notable chefs included Gearoid Lynch, Ed Cooney, JP McMahon, Graham Neville, Andrew Rudd and Gareth Mullins.

The Irish National Cocktail Championship was won by Ilario Alberto Caparo, with his drink entitled ‘The Boss’, using Moet & Chandon champagne, elderflower liquor and Grey Goose orange vodka. Ilario, who beat of stiff competition from 22 of Ireland’s most talented and creative mixologists, will now go on to represent Ireland at the 2017 World Cocktail Competition in Copenhagen.

Niall Wynn, from Proper Order Coffee Co, was named the Avonmore Irish Barista of the Year. As Irish Barista Champion, Niall will go on to represent Ireland in the World Barista Championship in South Korea this November. Reda Matiejune was crowned Irish Cup Taster Champion 2017. Reda will be representing Ireland at the World of Coffee Championships in Budapest from June 13th to 15th. One of the main events – the Chef Ireland Competitions – was oversubscribed with over 250 student and culinary chefs taking part, and many spectators cheering on their favourites. Taking home one of the biggest awards at Catex was Tobias Streitenberger, Head Chef at Mulroy’s, Castlebar, who was crowned the Dalata Hotel Group Senior Chef of the Year. Mariana Sweeney from Baxter Storey was crowned the Dalata Hotel Group Junior Chef of the Year.

Food & Bev Live returns next year! Taking place on February 6th and 7th 2018 at the Citywest Events Centre, Dublin, the two-day expo is the event to showcase your business, products and innovations. Contact EventHaus on 01 846 0020.