Danish flavours come to Waterford for special cultural event

Danish food culture and Waterford hospitality will come together later this month when Garter Lane Arts Centre hosts a special event exploring the connections between Denmark and the southeast. 

Taste of Denmark: Exploring and Enhancing Danish and Waterford Connections will take place on Wednesday, September 23, from 11am to 1pm and will feature food, discussion, music and cultural exchange.

One of the highlights of the free event will be a visit from acclaimed Danish chef and restaurateur Emilie Qvist, who will share her experiences of championing local food traditions and sustainable dining on Denmark's northwest coast.

Raised on an organic farm, Ovist has become known for her commitment to seasonal ingredients and supporting local producers. 

During the Covid-19 pandemic, she left formal chef training to establish her first restaurant, Medvind, in Hanstholm, beside Denmark's largest fish auction. 

She later opened Restaurant Lyspunktet in the town's historic lighthouse, where she continues to celebrate local seafood, farming traditions and regional produce.

Qvist will take part in a conversation with Waterford chef and SETU Culinary Arts lecturer Michael Quinn, moderated by gastronomic journalist Tina Nielsen.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to sample smørrebrød, Denmark's famous open sandwich, with a distinctive Waterford twist. The tasting experience is being delivered in partnership with Taste Waterford and students from SETU's Culinary Arts programme, showcasing local ingredients and culinary traditions.

The event will be attended by a number of distinguished guests, including Waterford City and County Mayor Liam Brazil, Ireland's Ambassador to Denmark Kyle O'Sullivan and Denmark's Chargé d'Affaires to Ireland, Ole Egberg Mikkelsen.

Information stands from local and international organisations, including Taste Waterford, Visit Waterford and Europe Direct Waterford, will offer visitors an opportunity to learn more about cultural and tourism links between the two regions.

Music will be provided by Music Generation Waterford.

Supported by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's Communicating Europe Initiative, the event forms part of Waterford's partnership with Denmark during Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

Admission is free, although advance booking is essential.