Taste of Laois Food Trail Showcases the Best of Laois Food and Drink
On the evening before the All-Island Food Networks Gathering 2026, Local Enterprise Office Laois was delighted to welcome food and drink journalists, network representatives and food business owners from across Ireland to the Taste of Laois Food Trail in Abbeyleix.
The event offered guests a unique opportunity to experience the exceptional food and drink offering that continues to position Laois as one of Ireland's most exciting food destinations. From artisan chocolate and award-winning bakery products to premium spirits, dairy, granola and handcrafted desserts, participants enjoyed a memorable journey through the flavours, stories and entrepreneurship that define the county's thriving food sector.
Set against the backdrop of the heritage town of Abbeyleix, the trail showcased a range of outstanding local businesses and community initiatives. Guests visited and met the people behind Temptations Chocolate Boutique, Mueller & O'Connell Bakery, Daily Dose, Zephyr Yard, First Ireland Spirits, Ballykilcavan Brewery and Abbeyleix Community Garden, gaining first-hand insight into the passion, innovation and commitment that underpin their success.
The Taste of Laois Food Trail highlighted not only the quality of local produce but also the strong spirit of collaboration between businesses, community groups and tourism stakeholders that continues to strengthen Laois's reputation as a premier food destination.
As we celebrate the success of the event, we are also proud to recognise the outstanding achievements of the eight Laois food producers shortlisted as finalists in the Blas na hÉireann 2026 Irish Food Awards, taking place in Dingle on 1st and 2nd October.
Congratulations and best of luck to:
- Abbey Farm Foods / G's Gourmet Jams
- Aghaboe Farm Foods
- Ballyrider House Granola
- First Ireland Spirits
- Mueller & O'Connell Bakery
- Temptations Chocolate Boutique
- The Village Dairy
- Zephyr Yard
To have eight Laois businesses reach the final stage of Ireland's most prestigious food awards is a tremendous achievement and reflects the quality, creativity and ambition that exists throughout the county's food and drink sector.
Whether planning a day trip, a weekend escape or simply seeking out exceptional local produce, visitors to Laois can discover an authentic food experience rooted in place, people and passion.
We wish all of our finalists every success in Dingle and look forward to celebrating their achievements in the weeks ahead. 👏
