The Irish Food Writing Awards ceremony takes place on Thursday, 22nd October at O’Reilly Hall in UCD
The Irish Food Writing Awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, 22nd October at O’Reilly Hall in UCD, South County Dublin. This is the sixth year of the awards, established to acknowledge the highest achievements in books, journalism, restaurant critiques, feature writing, recipe writing, photography, podcasts and social media on Irish food and drink. Uniquely, the awards are judged only by the most prestigious UK and International media, ensuring impartiality. After a record level of interest, the closing date for entries has now passed.
The Emerging Writer Award
As the landscape for creating food and drink content constantly evolves, so too do the Awards. This year sees Ireland’s Blue Book sponsor The Emerging Writer Award – a very prestigious accolade for any writer wanting to make their name. For 2026 it is being judged by British food writer Charlotte Pike MBE.
Michelle Maguire, CEO of The Blue Book said
“Since it was established in 1974, The Blue Book has come to represent a quality mark for independent Irish hospitality. Offering a curated collection of of over 60 of Ireland’s finest country house hotels, Georgian manor houses, stately castles, luxury boutique hotels, designer lodges and restaurants, representing the very best of hospitality, accommodation and cuisine.
Irish Food Writing Awards founder Suzanne Campbell said
“The ethos of The Blue Book is celebrating individuality, heritage and outstanding Irish food and drink. Exactly the qualities that make good writing stand out from the crowd. It is so important that the next generation of food writers are encouraged and celebrated, and we’re delighted that with the support of The Blue Book, the Irish Food Writing Awards can continue to do so.”
