On the 16th of June 2024, an enchanting gastronomic event took place at Kentwell Hall in Long Melford, near Sudbury. The event, named Taste of East Anglia, proudly presented a diverse range of locally-sourced, handmade food and beverages, including street food, craft ales, lagers, and sparkling drinks. It was met with great success, drawing a large, enthusiastic crowd eager to indulge in the culinary offerings.
This year, the festival boasted over 80 stalls, each showcasing a distinctive selection of goods crafted in the region. One of the standout features was the debut of Freddie Fallon, the executive chef of The Bildeston Crown in Ipswich, who skillfully integrated Asian flavours with the fresh local produce from Nedging Hall Estate. Additionally, James Carn, the esteemed proprietor and chef of Lark restaurant in Bury St Edmunds, made a triumphant return to the festival, having been hailed as the ‘chef to watch’ by The Good Food Guide.
Alongside the delectable array of food and drink, visitors were treated to local craft stalls, musical performances by Bedford45, and a variety of engaging activities for children. Despite the adverse weather, which the festival organizers jovially described as “biblical,” attendees admirably persevered, seeking shelter under gazebos and in the kitchen theatre. Once the rain subsided and the sun emerged, the festivities resumed with gusto, as attendees eagerly embraced the Taste of East Anglia.
The festival’s social media representative expressed admiration for the determination and enthusiasm of the visitors, stating, “What a day. The rain was biblical today but still people persevered. Crowds hung onto gazebos, huddled into the kitchen theatre and sat in cars and when the rain stopped and the sun shone, you all came back and carried on enjoying the Taste of East Anglia.”
The resounding success of the Taste of East Anglia food and drink festival showcases the enduring appeal of high-quality regional culinary experiences. It serves as an affirmation of the vibrant culinary landscape of East Anglia and the unwavering support of local communities for such events. Undoubtedly, the festival provided a memorable and enjoyable day for all attendees, and it is certain to be eagerly anticipated in the years to come.