Gemma Hinch-ing ahead with new venture Era
The owner and chef of beloved Belfast restaurant A Peculiar Tea has unveiled her latest venture after being forced to announce its closure due to rising costs.
Gemma Austin, who previously was a contestant on Great British Menu, and whose restaurant boasted celebrity fans including former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, will now open a new eatery in the grounds of Hinch Distillery in Carryduff, called Era.
Writing on social media, the award winning chef said: “Era is a new beginning for us.
“A brand new restaurant with a totally different concept. We are going back to what good food really means to us… big flavours, sustainability sourced, supporting the producers of Ireland.
“It will be about ‘Seasons of Change’, highlighting what we can get from the land at that time.”
She also said Era’s menu will be put an emphasis on local and home grown meals and produce, which will change for her dinner menu.
“Our lunch menu will have crowd favourites and nostalgic Irish dishes. Our evening menu gets a little more special, showcasing the knowledge and imagination of Chef Gemma Austin and her team,” the restaurant added on social media, before stating they will be open for bookings soon.
“We can’t wait to welcome you into our new space.”
Ms Austin did say she hopes A Peculiar Tea will return “when the time is right”.
“Not rushed by leases or under pressure. Patience is a virtue,” she added.
