The Royal Ulster Agricultural Society and Food NI are delighted to join forces once again as they reveal the highlights of the NI Food & Drink Pavilion at the 2026 Balmoral Show.
From much loved local favourites and sustainable snacks to refreshing drinks and artisan treats, visitors will have the chance to sample, shop, and meet the makers behind over 80 of the region’s most exciting culinary creations.
As Northern Ireland’s leading agri-food event the 157th Show will host household names such as Thompson’s Tea, Tayto, Forest Feast, Boatyard Distillery, the Krazi Baker, Finnebrogue and Glastry Farm Ice Cream, as well as new exhibitors including Lyttle Leaves, Dart Mountain Cheese and the Grove Dairy.
The Pavilion’s two theatre kitchens will take centre stage in this vibrant space. The TESCO Theatre Kitchen will focus on excellent quality locally grown and produced food, wholesome recipes and talented entrepreneurs, while the SAFEFOOD Theatre Kitchen will focus on healthy meal options but being mindful of safety in the kitchen. The line-up of chef comperes is sure to captivate onlookers throughout the four days of the Show. This year Paula McIntyre, Stephen Jeffers, Dean Coppard, Julie Fitz and Suzie Lee will host the Theatre Kitchens and they aren’t to be missed. With these renowned chefs alongside none other than former rugby star, beloved cook, and author Johnny Murphy, aka The Hungry Hooker, the team will be ready to scrum down on flavour and tackle every appetite.
Supporting local and more sustainable produce will be a core focus within the Pavilion this year as several council areas will host regional exhibitors including Derry City and Strabane District Council, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, and Fermanagh and Omagh District Council alongside food and drink collective, Belfast Flavours and Tourism NI who are set to represent exciting food and drink tourism experiences. The collective ethos of this space at the Balmoral Show remains one of championing local food and drink alongside more sustainable and healthy food choices.
Lindsay Curran of Food NI, commented, “We are proud that each year our local food and drink sector continues to go from strength to strength. As sustainability and health rise ever higher on the agenda, we are delighted to showcase a mix of new and returning local companies in the NI Food and Drink Pavilion.
“As the highlight of the agri-food calendar, it brings together the very best of our industry, from farm diversifications to chef-led businesses, offering not just a feast for the senses, but a valuable platform to do business.
“In partnership with Invest NI, we will welcome over 80 local buyers to meet the talented producers that make Northern Ireland’s food and drink offering so distinctive. This year, the Pavilion will also shine a spotlight on the NI Food Strategy Framework, with a clear focus on health, sustainability and economic growth.”
The Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank will return to the Eikon Exhibition Centre showgrounds from Wednesday 13th May to Saturday 16th May 2026. For the latest updates on the Show follow Balmoral Show on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
