2019 Award Winners STREET FOOD OF THE YEAR 2019

Misunderstood Heron, near Leenane, Killary Harbour, Co Galway

Ireland has gone street food crazy lately and there’s some real quality popping up at food trucks and stalls in the most unlikely places, including industrial and business settings as well as markets, parks and open air events. From farmers looking for a new market for their produce to budding chefs and restaurateurs frustrated by high rents and punitive rates, there are some highly talented people involved and the delicious food and the service they offer is going down a treat. And, with food standards matching some of the best permanent restaurants in some cases, it looks as if they’re here to stay. We salute the leaders.

The wacky name is a hint of the thinking behind Reinaldo Seco and Kim Young's beautifully located food truck overlooking Killary Harbour in Connemara. While the setting is remote it's hard to miss when you're travelling along the N59, as it's set up in the carpark of the Young family's Killary Adventure Centre, just west of Leenane, with picnic tables and benches around it where hungry travellers can make the most of the stunnning views. Take a closer look at the rustic food truck and you'll find the food philosophy - Fresh, Local, Never Conventional - stated simply alongside a blackboard menu that promises a host of local treats. Killary Mussels, produced in the cold clear waters of Killary Harbour, and Connemara lamb from a nearby farm top the bill - think bowls of steaming mussels, and mouthwatering lamb pasties or samosas - along with other simple savoury fare, such as quiche or smoked salmon with homegrown salad and pickles, and moreish homemade cakes with Cloudpicker coffee, roasted in Dublin.
A sustainable business that takes pride in stating that all food is homemade and packaging is compostable, the Misunderstood Heron is indeed a treat to seek out along the Wild Atlantic Way.