With a lengthy career spanning decades Kevin Dundon has left an indelible mark on the culinary landscape
As the 2025 Listowel Food Fair proudly celebrates its 30th Anniversary this year, beloved Irish Celebrity Chef, TV Personality, Managing Director of Dunbrody Country House and Food Author Kevin Dundon was recognised for his significant contribution to Ireland’s food sector on Saturday, November 8th, 2025 at the Listowel Food Fair Gala Awards Banquet hosted at the Listowel Arms Hotel.
The evening brought together artisan producers from across the island of Ireland, food lovers, and industry leaders to celebrate three decades of culinary excellence in North Kerry’s historic food town.
Speaking at the awards, Listowel Food Fair Chairperson Former Minister of State in the Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, Jimmy Deenihan said:
“Tonight, as we celebrate 30 years of Listowel Food Fair we wish to recognize and acknowledge Kevin Dundon’s work with our lifetime achievement award. We are not just celebrating his remarkable career, we are honoring his passion, dedication and contributions to elevating Irish food to the highest of standards. With a lengthy career spanning decades Kevin Dundon has left an indelible mark on the culinary landscape. From the Harvest Room Restaurant at Dunbrody Country House, Co. Wexford, to his popular cookbooks and television shows, Kevin Dundon has inspired a generation of chefs and food enthusiasts alike.
Kevin has created a culinary haven showcasing the best of Irish produce and craftsmanship at Dunbrody Country House and his commitment to using local seasonal ingredients has raised the bar for Irish cuisine. Their warm Irish hospitality has made Dunbrody Country House a beloved destination for foodies from around the world. This award celebrates not only Kevin Dundon’s achievements but also his dedication to mentoring and supporting emerging talents. He is a true champion of Irish food, and his legacy will continue to inspire and influence the culinary world for years to come.”
Upon receiving the 2025 Listowel Food Fair Lifetime Achievement Award Kevin Dundon said:
“It is with immense gratitude and privilege that I accept this year’s Listowel Food Fair Lifetime Achievement Award. I would like to thank the organisers of the Listowel Food Fair – in particular, the Festival Committee led by Chairperson Jimmy Deenihan for this wonderful honour and for inviting me to be part of such a special event, which celebrates its 30th Anniversary this year. It is a real pleasure to be here in the lovely town of Listowel, in North Kerry, a place that has such a rich Food-Heritage and community spirit, and to celebrate the enduring success of this festival, which is one of the longest running food festivals in existence across the island of Ireland today.
I have had the privilege of collaborating with wonderful suppliers, farmers, fishermen and artisan producers across this country, and I have always believed that strong local food networks are the lifeblood of Irish cuisine, which for many producers now today can be attributed to the Listowel Food Fair’s beginnings in 1995.
I would like to recognise the fantastic local food producers of this region: the dairy, the meats, the vegetables, the bread-bakers, the artisan food makers who toil every day with passion and pride. In accepting this award, I do so, humbled by all those who have come before, and inspired by those who will come after. I want to thank my team back at Dunbrody Country House Hotel, my family, and all the producers I have worked with – you are the engine of what we do.”
The 2025 Listowel Food Fair was hosted from Thursday 6th – Monday 10th November 2025 and featured an exciting line-up of food markets, cookery demonstrations, workshops, and special events celebrating the best of Irish food and drink.The Listowel Food Fair remains committed to supporting the growth of local and regional food producers. As the North Kerry festival celebrates three decades of flavour, innovation, and community, the 2025 Listowel Food Fair continues to embody the spirit of Irish food culture, proudly local, passionately crafted, and deeply rooted in tradition.
