Every year, local food and drink organisation BITE Sussex joins with the Brighton and Hove Tourism Alliance – the independent business voice of the visitor economy in the city – to bring together key businesses for an informal afternoon sampling local produce and sharing knowledge through chef demos, ‘meet the maker’ exhibitor stands and industry masterclasses.
This year, the event was hosted at Brighton Beach House on Madeira Drive with welcome drinks sponsored by Brighton Gin and Fever-Tree, and chef demos from Simon Mckenzie, Sabu Joseph from Easy Tiger, Ashley Barton from The Copper Clam and Ewan Waller from Maré who all shared their signature dishes with guests.
Local vineyards and distilleries presented Sussex wines and spirits, alongside numerous producers and suppliers including Boho Gelato, Cocoa Corner, The Cheese Man and Julien Plumart patisserie.
“This business-to-business event is a real highlight for us,” said Nathalie Gomez de Vera, co-director of BITE Sussex.
“Its a wonderful opportunity for industry friends and colleagues to catch up informally for a natter whilst also enjoying craft produce from across Sussex and sharing knowledge and best practice.”
Although fun and relaxed, a strong business message was also shared.
“Tourism is the life-blood of our city,” said Julia Weeks of the Brighton and Hove Tourism Alliance.
“With so much change on both a national and local level, now more than ever, its important for like-minded businesses in our sector to work collaboratively to ensure the city and county are at the fore of the minds of actual and potential visitors from the UK and internationally.
“We need bums on seats and heads in beds to ensure the economic and cultural vibrancy of the city and our neighbouring towns and villages.
“Times may be challenging for both the private and public sectors so we can’t work in silos.
“We have to ensure that Brighton and Sussex isn’t just a go-to destination today but also in the years to come.”
Industry masterclasses included presentations from David Deaves of Cases who showcased Sussex cheese producers, hospitality marketing insight from Lena Koskela of Laine Marketing and an introduction to designing a restaurant wine list from local vintner Henry Butler of Butlers Wine Cellar.
Adding a little razzmatazz to the afternoon, Allison Ferns, Anne Ackord and Jack Pallister – playing the spoons – promoted The End of the Pier Show with song, dance and tongue-in-cheek seaside humour.
The show will be returning to Horatio’s on Brighton Palace Pier in August.
The chosen charity for the event was Raystede animal sanctuary near Lewes with guests donating towards a raffle that raised over £250 on the day.
The BITE Brighton Oyster Festival runs from Friday 19 to Sunday, June 28. Discover more at www.bitesussex.com.
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