Enjoy the ultimate summer BBQ …
“Shall we eat inside or outside?” Apparently, we discuss the weather a staggering 29 times a week, especially during barbecue season, a quintessential part of any summer. Surveys show that we’re going back to basics and ditching gas barbecues for a more authentic experience cooking over coals. Sourdough bread is out in favour of the classic white bap, while marinated chicken drumsticks and sides such as potato salads and assorted slaws are firmly back on the menu, as is a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, rather than natural or organic wine.
Howth Castle Cookery School, Howth, Dublin
Howth Castle Cookery School has launched its new programme of fun baking workshops for teens, Sunday brunch ideas and also a Steak Night on the BBQ on August 1, among many other classes. Learn how to grill your chosen steak with premium cuts, searing techniques, and timeless accompaniments such as béarnaise and salsa verde, paired with crispy duck fat rosemary potatoes. Sign us up! @howthcastlecookery
The Big Grill BBQ and Food Festival, Herbert Park, Dublin
A good place to pick up some tips from established pit masters is at The Big Grill from August 14 to 17. This year, Texan duo Ernest Servantes and David Kirkland of Burnt Bean Co will be among the line-up of experts demonstrating their explosive flavours and devotion to traditional techniques, as well as London-based chef Kaneda Pen of Mamapen who’s bringing his Cambodian barbecue concept to Ireland, as is Michelin-starred John Bates of InterStellar BBQ and Ali Clem of la Barbecue. There’s plenty of homegrown talent taking part too, from Bahay (the much-loved Irish-Filipino food duo) and sustainable smokehouse From The Ashes to Hera, Achara, Hang Dai, Bah33, Pitt Bros, Reyna, and Chiya. As an insider tip, book the Rancho Relax area, a laidback hideaway with a private bar, guaranteed seating, posh loos, two complimentary drinks, and fast-track entry. @biggrillfestival
Scorchio HQ Block Party, Dublin
The Baste crew is hosting a BBQ Block Party on August 2 in their new Scorchio HQ venue (a stone’s throw from their old Clanbrassil St location). Tickets include smoked chicken wings, pork ribs, sugar pit beef rib with all the trimmings, a welcome drink and, of course, dancing in one of the city’s best sun traps. @scorchiohq
If you’ve booked to see Oasis or Robbie Williams, consider a pre-concert barbecue on the terrace at Croke Park Hotel. Just steps from the stadium, the hotel will transform its outdoor terrace into an all-you-can-eat barbecue serving up grilled favourites, beers, and wine – the perfect prelude to a night of music. @crokeparkhotel
The Hyatt Centric in The Liberties offers a variety of barbecue packages from executive head chef Eric Osbourne. Club Tropicana-themed nights in the hotel’s Poddle Garden offers access to an indoor area, so there’s no need to fret about the weather. A hidden gem in the heart of the city. @hyattcentricdublin
Kinara Kitchen, Clontarf, Dublin 3
This busy beachside barbecue returns on weather-permitting weekends beside Bull Island – a chance to enjoy its popular barbecue chicken thigh and lamb shish. @kinara_group
A highlight of the summer calendar – spotlighting producers, chefs, and culinary innovators that shape the region’s vibrant food scene – this year’s programme features over 100 events across the city, including two events to appeal to barbecue fans. Irish story project CRAICLY is co-hosting Pig on a Spit at Glenbrook Farm on August 13 with farmer Peter Twomey and his family, while Smokin’ Soul x Cask BBQ Night on August 14 is a chance to savour exceptional barbecue and smoked food created by Cask’s head chef Robert Birins. @corkonaforkfest
Hosting At Home
1. LNH Edit‘s of summer barbecue essentials includes chic serveware, durable outdoor glassware, vibrant condiments and colourful napkins to make alfresco dining effortless and elegant.
2. Sign up as one of ALDI’s Big BBQ for Barnardos host to raise funds for Barnardos’ Early Years and Family Support Services.
3. Another useful initiative is Too Good To Go, which connects consumers to local supermarkets, butchers, cafés, and food businesses offering surplus food at reduced prices. You can grab everything from premium meats to sauces and salads at a fraction of the cost from partners like James Whelan Butchers and FX Buckley.