This summer, ‘staycationing’ has replaced ‘the new normal’ as the phrase de jour. Certainly, we are lamenting the lack of buttery fresh French croissants on a vacation-day morning, and missing the salty waft of a seafood-laden Spanish paella sweeping through the streets of our new holiday location. But this sans-sojourn summer is the perfect opportunity to be tourists at home, and to discover the abundance of extraordinary food this island has to offer. When paired with Ireland’s jaw-dropping green scenery, these on-the-go dining experiences become even more special. Whether it’s a day trip with a culinary reward at the end, or an afternoon adventure while staycationing, these five food trucks will make any journey worthwhile.
Mini Maegden, Causeway Road, Bushmills, Co. Antrim.
If my trip to The Giants Causeway as a child had ended up with a cheese toastie at Mini Maegden, then perhaps I would not have spent all my time on that particular trip complaining to my mother. Sadly, (for her sake) this was not the case but in today’s world, visitors to this stunning part of the world will be sated and happy after a gloriously cheesy toasted sandwich full to the brim with a selection of cheeses from Sheridan’s, Toonsbridge Dairy, Mike’s Fancy Cheese in Belfast and Neal’s Yard Dairy, London. The ever important bread for these legendary sandwiches is from master artisan baker, Ricky Hay, at Zac’s Bakehouse.
Misunderstood Heron, Killary Fjord, Lennane, Co. Galway.
Misunderstood Heron is perhaps the most talked about food truck in Ireland, and with good reason. The location in itself is magical and working up an appetite by taking a walk along the wildly beautiful coastal path is an experience not to be missed. Your reward could be anything from Connemara lamb chops with chili mole and chickpea salad or green beans on sourdough toast with ricotta, sunflower seeds and pesto. Voted as one of the top 100 food trucks in the world by Lonely Planet, it’s easy to see why. The menu changes weekly.
The Hatch, Castlewellan, Co. Down.
Location along the Mourne Coastal Route, The Hatch has garnered quite the reputation for its excellent burger’s made with 38 day aged local shorthorn beef, triple fried chips and Kilkeel sourced fresh fish. Parmesan and truffle fries are on the menu and if you happen to be around at lunchtime the fish tacos are reputed to be worth a pit stop too. With quite a few awards to their name for their excellent burgers, the stunning Mourne scenery vies with The Hatch for reasons to visit this part of the world.
Julia’s Lobster Truck, Co. Clare.
Another one for the seafood lovers, Julia’s Lobster Truck keeps it simple with fresh barbequed lobster served with chili lime butter, organic leaves and real chips. Too much? Then a lobster roll could be the one for you. If lobster doesn’t tickle your fancy then perhaps the beer battered hake will or the mussels in a spiced coconut broth. This summer, you will find Julia on Friday and Saturdays at Bell Harbour from 4-8pm and on Sunday at Burren Food & Wine in Ballyvaughan from 2-5pm. Rumour has it there are some spectacular walks in the area too.
Caitlin Ruth’s Food Truck, Co Cork.
Following on from a successful stint last summer at Levis’ in Ballydehob, Chef Caitlin Ruth is on the road again. Cailtin and her now famous food truck will be travelling the length and breadth of Co. Cork this summer announcing her locations on Instagram. Caitlin’s food is unlike anything else, with quality ingredients and unique touches making each dish a celebration in Irish food.
