A friend of mine (now also a fellow metblogger but in Paris) is coming to visit in a couple of weeks, so it’s all very exciting! I’m trying to figure what we can do the weekend that she’ll be here, and show her the best of Dublin, even if I’m currently the “main attraction” for her trip. ;-)

My first step in luring her was through a rather innocent email, informing her about A Taste of Dublin which is taking place at the Iveagh Garden from Thursday 12 June to Sunday 15 June.

The concept is rather straightforward, and it’s definitely an event for food lovers. A number of top restauranteurs in Dublin, including Michelin-starred Chapter One and L’Ecrivain, will be showcasing their signature dishes – in sample size – and making this a more affordable gourmet dining experience for foodies while they promote their restaurants. There will also be demonstrations, free exhibitor samples, Ballymaloe cookery school (first come first serve basis, not bookable in advance) and cocktail academy.

This event is ticketed and unfortunately, it is not exactly cheap. Entry ticket only costs €25 plus booking fees of €3.50. A better deal is to purchase the Premium package, which includes 20 Florins (worth €20) for the price of €40 plus booking fees of €5. In case you’re wondering, Florins is the official “currency” during the event and they can be purchased from the travelling vendors. The dishes are expected to cost between 5 to 8 Florins each.

So book your tickets now if you wish to take part in this eating event, as there are limited tickets per taste session. On general, there are two sessions per day, one from 12pm to 4pm, and another from 5.30pm to 9.30pm. So four hours each session to explore, to eat, and fingers crossed for plenty of sunshine to make this into a fabulous gourmet picnic in one of the loveliest garden in Dublin.