FOUR days of food-fuelled fun are promised at the second Castlefield Food Festival (May 12-15) with a formula following last year’s inaugural event, which attracted more than 15,000 folk to Castlefield Bowl.
So expect the likes of Mary Ellen McTague, Helen and Lisa Tse of Sweet Mandarin and Beef and Pudding’s David Mooney doing chef demos along with Robert Owen Brown, who will also host a repeat of his Saturday Food Challenge competition where food critics slave over the demo hobs to create a winning dish (the heat’s on below).
Kate Goodman of Reserve in West Didsbury will be holding a wine masterclass, the Barton Arcade’s Lunya, a Catalan cooking masterclass and a secret guest from The Great British Bake Off will host a special session.
New this year is a night market on the ope ing Thursday (4pm-10pm), offering after-work food, drink and entertainment from the live stage, and at 6.30pm on Thursday, May 12 Claire Kelsey, of Ginger’s Comfort Emporium will be running alcohol and booze ice cream demo, where she transforms tipples from the back of your drinks cabinet into artisan ice creams. She’s also back at 11am on the Saturday to organise a kids’ ice cream masterclass. It’s free on a first come first served basis – one of many hands-on children’s events.
The street food offering is much expanded. We are fascinated by Bongo's Rock 'N' Roll Chilli Pickles, created by Manny Elias, original drummer from Tears For Fears.
Craft beers re a major presence along with gin naturally. Support your local Manchester Gin from Aaron Darke of Zymurgorium.
Manchester Food and Drink Festival, Castlefield Bowl. Thurs May 12-Sun May 15. Free entry. Only masterclasses are ticketed. http://castlefieldfoodfestival.co.uk