If you like to know exactly where your food comes from when eating out, then the results of a survey conducted by Bord Bia will be sure to impress.

According to recent research conducted amongst previous recipients of the Bord Bia Just Ask! Monthly Award, Irish restaurants are eager to promote their support of local suppliers meaning diners will have first-hand knowledge of the original source.

From name-checking suppliers on menus to arranging ‘Meet the Maker’ events for eager foodies, Irish restaurants have never been so proactive when it comes to bolstering and promoting support for local suppliers.

With 81% of restaurant-owners asserting that the public is becoming more aware of the importance of sourcing locally, the vast majority revealed that they spend in excess of 40% of their monthly budget on local food and drink.

Acutely aware of a diner’s desire to be kept abreast of developments, 85% of restaurant-owners attest that diners actively look to support restaurants which are supporting local suppliers.

As a result of this, 95% revealed they have increased the number of local suppliers they use over the past 12 months.

The power of social media means diners can be made aware of particular links between suppliers and restaurants , with 71% of restaurant owners confirming that it plays a key role when engaging with both customers and suppliers.

With 70% of restaurant owners asserting they have experienced an increase in the number of diners eating out during the week, it’s perhaps unsurprising we have an increased interest in the origin of our meals.

Echoing this, Stephen Lenahan of Belleek Castle in Co. Mayo said: “We feel it’s important for consumers to understand about where their food comes from and have organised recent foraging events in Belleek Woods and on our local sea shore.”

Similarly, Maureen Gahan of Bord Bia asserts: “It’s very positive that so many restaurant owners feel the public are becoming more aware of the importance of sourcing local ingredients and are voting with their feet when it comes to eating out. Remember – if the menu you’re looking at doesn’t specify where the food on your plate comes from, then Just Ask!”

Eating out has never been so delicious – or informative!

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