A Celebration of Cheshire Food & Drink
Over the weekend, I had the pleasure of attending the Nantwich Food Festival – a three-day celebration of food and drink that has become a firm favourite among food lovers across the region and beyond. The town comes alive with stalls, tastings, workshops, and live demonstrations, and it’s safe to say that this year’s event did not disappoint.
From tucking into a mighty street food lunch (the unforgettable ‘Dogzilla’ hotdog – stacked high with flavour from succulent bacon, sausage and onions!) to wandering the bustling stalls filled with local and artisan producers, there was something for every palate.
A Cheese Lover’s Dream
One of the highlights of the festival for me was the Gruyère cheese workshop. It was fascinating to learn more about this classic cheese, its complex ageing process, and what makes it such a favourite in both traditional and modern cooking.
I also attended a cheese and wine pairing event hosted by the entertaining and knowledgeable Nick from The Cheese Shop Nantwich and wine specialist Mark Jefferies. Four stunning wines were matched perfectly with four incredible cheeses – a real masterclass in flavour balance.
Oysters with Chester’s Sandbar
Another standout moment was a seafood workshop with Martin Taylor, owner of The Sandbar Seafood Shack in Chester. Martin’s passion for oysters was infectious as he talked about sourcing the best shellfish, shared expert tips on shucking, and demonstrated how to prepare and present them beautifully.
Now, I know oysters divide opinion – some people can’t get enough of them, while others are hesitant to give them a go. But if you’ve never tried oysters before, I’d highly recommend starting with a classic: Oysters Rockefeller.
The Story of Oysters Rockefeller
This iconic dish was created in New Orleans in 1899 by Jules Alciatore at Antoine’s Restaurant. At the time, there was a shortage of escargot, so oysters were used as a substitute. The dish was named after John D. Rockefeller, the wealthiest man in America at the time, because of its rich, indulgent flavour.
Traditionally, Oysters Rockefeller are topped with a blend of butter, herbs, breadcrumbs, and often spinach, then baked until golden and bubbling. The result is a dish that’s comforting, luxurious, and the perfect introduction to oysters for anyone a little unsure about eating them raw.
Where to Try Them in Chester
If your curiosity has been sparked, you don’t need to travel to Louisiana – Chester has its very own seafood gem. The Sandbar, based in Chester Market and now with a new restaurant on Lower Watergate Street, offers freshly prepared seafood dishes in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Whether you’re an oyster enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the world of seafood, it’s a spot well worth visiting.gruy
Why Add Nantwich Food Festival to Your Diary
The festival was a brilliant reminder of how diverse and passionate the UK’s food scene is. From artisan cheesemakers to seafood experts, every workshop offered a chance to learn, taste, and be inspired.
Nantwich Food Festival 2026 is already one for the diary – and if you can’t wait that long, why not join us on a Chester Food Tour to experience local flavours year-round?
