By Róise Collins
THERE was something to suit all palates as the annual Mary From Dungloe Food Fayre brought the very best of Donegal’s growing local talent to the heart of the town on Monday afternoon.
From brewers and bakers to chocolatiers and distillers, dozens of stalls lined the venue, each proudly offering tastings and sharing the stories behind their products.
Among the guests were this year’s Marys, mingling and sampling the food and drink on offer.
Gerry and Hannah Friel from Filligans, Glenties.
One of the first to greet attendees was the team from Filligans, a Glenties-based producer known for their handmade jams and chutneys.
They offered generous samples while sharing their passion for crafting small-batch products packed with flavour.
Tony Sharkey, Catherine Greene and John Joe McGinley from Croithlí Distillery at the Mary from Dungloe Food Fayre.
Next, visitors met the knowledgeable duo from Croithlí Distillery, who explained the art of distilling their premium single malt whiskey. With a focus on how variations in oak wood barrels create distinct flavours, they let the whiskey speak for itself by offering attendees a sample (or two!).
Just across the hall, the Waterfront Hotel’s mixologists showcased their flair with craft cocktails made from homemade syrups and local spirits.
Zita, Ben and James McDevitt from Errigal Brewing Company, Annagry in Dungloe at Monday’s Mary from Dungloe Food Fayre. Photos: Eoin McGarvey
Beer lovers were also well catered to by Errigal Brewing Company, serving five craft beers on tap, including their Anagaire Pale Ale (APA) named after their hometown where the brewery is based.
Their crisp lager and gluten-free options ensured all tastes were covered.
Though it was barely noon, the flowing samples were a good reminder to appoint a designated driver.
Izzy Williams from Mc Daid’s Football Special at the Mary from Dungloe food fayre.
Soft drinks also had their moment. McDaids, known for their iconic Football Special, served nostalgic favourites alongside newer offerings like exotic pineapple and a newly formulated cola blend.
Meanwhile, Kombucha Na Dálaigh, led by founder Marianne O’Donnell, brewed interest from the crowd with her flavourful and health-forward fermented drink crafted in the heart of the Gaeltacht.
Those on a health buzz also enjoyed samples from Nomadic, whose creamy yogurt pots were a delicious treat.
For those with a sweet tooth, there was plenty to indulge in too.
The Donegal Chocolate Man wowed attendees with hand-crafted bonbons ranging from chilli chocolate to rich espresso. Each sweet not only burst with flavour but were decorated meticulously like a work of art.
Nearby, Coco Milis of Burtonport offered a bean-to-bar chocolate experience, complete with displays of cacao beans and nibs alongside the finished bars.
Aoibhín O’Dea from Cacaí Aoibhín and Tír Bakehouse with her mum Grainne.
Home baking was out in full force with Cácaí Aoibhín’s displaying a mountain of tempting treats which was nearly cleared out to the last crumb, a clear sign of their popularity. While Wild Fuchsia Bakehouse also impressed with sticky ginger cake and hearty stout bread.
Local retailers were well represented too. SuperValu offered artisan breads from their bakery, while The Cope showcased everything from hot dishes and baked goods to generous portions of stew, pasta bakes and fresh vegetable soup.
The fayre also reflected Donegal’s growing international food scene. Namasthe, a popular Indian takeaway, served their much-loved chicken curry and Nepali-style vegetable momo dumplings in a fragrant sauce that won many fans.
Agnes offered a taste of central Europe with Polish pastries and cured meats, with her raspberry and apricot swirls being among the favourites.
Fiona and Jimmy Gallagher from Rosses-based Irish Premium Oysters.
The huge list of local producers also included Donegal Rapeseed Oil with their range of flavoured cold-pressed oils, Donegal Sea Salt offering hand-harvested salt from the Atlantic coast and Premium Irish Oysters, whose fresh seafood samples were a big hit. Corveen Glen rounded out the savoury offerings with a selection of smoked and cured meats.
And for dessert, Little Mama’s homemade gelato was the perfect summer treat, drawing queues throughout the day.
Adding a buzz, quite literally, were the hardworking bees from Donegal Wildflower Honey, who made a live appearance alongside their sweet, golden product.
The afternoon also included a number of live demonstrations from local chefs, who took to the stage to share their craft.
From start to finish, the Food Fayre was a celebration of Donegal’s rich culinary offering and the talent behind it.
The event was proudly supported by the Donegal Food Coast who recognise the county’s growing foodie reputation, by supporting the development, growth and quality of the growing sector.