Scotland & Ireland’s Culinary Scene
By Sarah Etinas
Scotland & Ireland’s Culinary Scene
By Sarah Etinas
Sip and savor the best of Celtic flavors with Brendan Vacations.
Eat and drink your way through Ireland and Scotland with Brendan Vacations—from beer and whiskey to homemade potato bread. Start by diving into these beloved culinary classics, then go even deeper into Ireland’s and Scotland’s innovative food scenes, with reimagined comfort foods and Michelin-starred dining experiences.
Visit the Guinness Storehouse
Arguably the most well-known beer brand around, Guinness got its start in Dublin, Ireland back in 1759. For the past nearly 300 years, the brand has been brewing its iconic stout and spreading its reach across the globe. Today, you can visit the Guinness Storehouse, where you can learn about the history of the company, sample some of your favorite beers, and find out the trick to pouring the perfect pint.
Sample Scottish Whiskey
Scottish whiskey—also known as scotch—has established itself as one of the best liquors around. There are several scotch distilleries throughout the country that are open to visitors, including the globally recognized brand, Johnny Walker. Found in the heart of Edinburgh, the Johnny Walker Experience welcomes hundreds of guests every single day. On their popular Journey of Flavor tour, you’ll get to learn about the history of the brand and sample three custom cocktails made just for you.
Have Afternoon Tea at Ashford Castle
Swap your beer and whiskey with a classy cup of afternoon tea at Ireland’s Ashford Castle. Dating back to 1228, this medieval structure sets quite the grand scene for a midday break. Settle in amongst the patterned wallpaper and floral tablecloths, large windows and vintage chairs. Soon enough, a spread of specialty teas, delectable finger sandwiches, and freshly baked scones will be brought out to complete an incredible afternoon tea experience.
Make Irish Potato Bread
Travel to Northern Ireland for a visit to Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen, the most charming farmhouse and bakehouse you ever did see. There, you can learn to make three different types of Northern Irish bread—soda bread, wheaten bread, and potato bread. Whichever option you choose, all of the ingredients you’ll use will be sourced from within 10 miles of the farmhouse! Before you know it, your baked goods will be ready, and you’ll get to enjoy them piping hot with a side of jam, along with some tea and coffee. And just in case you’d like to make these traditional breads again, you’ll get a copy of the recipes to take home with you too.
Enjoy a Two Michelin-Starred Tasting Experience at Terre Restaurant
One of just a handful of two Michelin-starred restaurants in all of Ireland, Terre Restaurant takes guests on a three-and-a-half-hour culinary journey. Through each plate, French techniques, Asian flavors, and local ingredients shine at their brightest. Even better, the entire dining experience takes place in a regal 18th century manor house, which takes the whole experience to the next level.
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