Not only is the Boyne Valley a region steeped in history and natural beauty, we are also home to some of the best chefs in Ireland. Here, the fertile lands yield an abundance of fresh produce, dairy, and meats, inspiring a culinary renaissance led by our visionary chefs. These culinary artisans, with their commitment to local ingredients and innovative techniques, are redefining Irish cuisine while paying homage to tradition. We will introduce you to these very chefs over the next few weeks. Our second chef shaping the gastronomic landscape of the Boyne Valley is Damian Borusiewicz, Head Chef at City North Hotel.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got into professional cookery?
I'm from Poland originally. One day representatives of newly opening catering college came to our school to tell us about it. I decided to give it a try and I studied there for four years. My love of cooking developed as the years went by, as did my passion for food.
Tell us about where you work in The Boyne Valley and your favourite thing about your job.
I work in the City North Hotel. My favourite thing about it is where we are located in the Boyne Valley and how busy we get. The Hotel is a multi-outlet operation with our Tara Lounge, private dining in the Delvin Suite and Mornington Restaurant, Afternoon Tea in our Lobby and of course our busy conference and banqueting trade. It requires a lot of organisational skills. I like to be challenged and this job is very challenging.
What is your favourite dish to make at work and why?
I am very proud of all of our dishes, so I don't really have a favourite dish, I love everything equally really, but I love lamb dishes. Roast leg of lamb, rack of lamb, lamb neck, lamb shank...
Tell us about your favourite local produce.
We try to use as much local produce as we can here at City North Hotel. We use as much in season produce as possible. When in season, we use a lot of Clark's strawberries, Ballymakenny Farm potatoes and Clogherhead seafood to name a few.
What is your favourite thing about working in the Boyne Valley?
I love that I live and work in the Boyne Valley. I am very interested in the history of the Boyne Valley. I live in Bettystown and I read a lot about the Boyne Valley historical sites, food and more!
To experience Damian’s cooking, pay a visit to the beautiful City North Hotel in Gormanston, County Meath. The stylish Tara Lounge serves food daily from their A lá Carté Bar Menu from 12-9 pm each day. They have introduced a Brunch Menu - available 7 days a week from 10.30am-12.00 Monday to Friday, 11am-12 Saturdays, Sundays, and Bank Holidays. Sunday Carvery is available from 12.30-6pm with live piano 2-4pm (also on Bank Holidays) with a Sandwich Menu also available during this time, and A lá Carté Bar Menu from 6-9pm. They offer daily specials including a vegetarian option and cater for all dietary requirements.
With their commitment to quality, creativity, and sustainability, our chefs are shaping the gastronomic landscape of the Boyne Valley and inspiring a new generation of chefs to carry the torch forward. As visitors to this region, you are in for a culinary treat! We can’t wait to welcome you!
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