Lisa Higginson
A showcase of Michelin star chefs, the finest regional produce, mesmerising mixologists and food industry gurus are set to inspire at Northern Restaurant and Bar 2010. Now in its 9th year, this acclaimed trade show offers the chance to see the cream of the northâs food and drink industry crop all under one roof and discover an array of innovative ideas and quality concepts. The free two-day event takes place at Manchester Central on Monday, April 12 and Tuesday, April 13 (10am to 5pm) and is expected to draw crowds with a stellar list of exhibitors and demonstrations.
Among the offerings on NRBâs menu are demonstrations by some of the finest chefs in the north, including Abdulla Naseem, of Ramsons; Andrew Nutter, of Nutters; Nigel Howarth of Northcote Manor; Marc Wilkinson, of Fraiche; Bryn Evans, of Obsidian and James Mackenzie of Pipe and Glass Inn. The chefs will impress with stunning skill in NRBâs Culinary Theatre, while over in the Drinks Academy there will be a bounty of bar tenders and mixologists to see. Keep ahead of the trade with a presentation by Ian McLaren, product training and mixology manager from leading brand Bacardi Brown-Forman and enjoy demonstrations from Manchester-based mixologists Tom Vernon of Socio Rehab, Tom Sneasby of Blackdog Ballroom and Tom Lloyd of Obsidian.
Nic Friar, Farzad Dashti, and Rick Warrier of BarLounge in Chester will be representing the bars from rural England and making some straw chewingly-countrified cocktails. Visitors are told to think gorse bushes, potato vodka, pressed apples and a roll in the hay! On Tuesday (April 12), the Drinks Academy will also become home to the âBest of the Best Northern Bar Tenders Competitionâ, hosted by Manchester-based Fluid Bars. Prepare to be dazzled as 10 skilled bartenders go head to head to be crowned top of their game. Sommeliers from around the region are also lined up to offer an insight in the world of wine. Among them will be Chris Johnson of Ramsons, Stephen Rosser, AIWS, WSET Certified Wine Educator and member of the Association of Wine Educators and Ilenia de Zordi of D and D Wines International.
As well as a plethora of exhibitors from across the industry, NRB will host a special Farmerâs Market featuring a feast of the best produce from around the region and beyond. For more information, a full line-up of exhibitors, show timetable and to register for free tickets visit www.northernrestaurantbar.co.uk This is a trade only event.