Soda & Starch Bistro added to Craft Village’s tasty menu
North West hospitality entrepreneur Ray Moran is to launch his all new Soda & Starch Bistro on June 30 in Derry’s Craft Village.
Ray, who already runs the popular Soda & Starch Under the Canopy and Artis Restaurant (in collaboration with chef Great British Menu star Phelim O’Hagan) promises diners a more relaxed and casual offering at the new venue.
With a focus on quality local produce and ‘from farm to plate’ dishes, Soda & Starch Bistro is working closely with family= run suppliers to produce creative value-for-money dishes.
Ray, above, who has 30-plus years in the food business under his belt , said: “Our existing two venues in Derry’s Craft Village have received phenomenal feedback since they began operating.
“Soda and Starch Under the Canopy is a fully licenced street food venue delivering a relaxed summer vibe. Available for private hire, firm favourites include the Hog Roast and Summer Barbecue.
“Meanwhile, Artis Restaurant offers a more formal culinary experience and was created by myself and Great British Menu Chef Phelim O’Hagan. And today we are proud to launch something of a hybrid between the two that will allow guests to enjoy the best seasonal produce in what is a beautiful part of the city.”
Dishes on the launch menu include seafood from Moore on the Quay, and steaks and seasonal vegetarian options, with the majority of dishes using the Kopa Grill, a vented sealed oven that produces juicer meats and primal heat flavours.
Ray garnered a host of accolades for his first venue, Soda & Starch, including featuring in the Top 100 Restaurants in Ireland rankings for the years 2019 and 2020. It has also featured in the McKenna’s Guide four years running and has taken the award for North West Restaurant of the Year, among others.
He added: “The Craft Village in Derry has come alive over the last 12 months, providing an eclectic mix of artisan craft shops, cafes and restaurants. It is fast becoming a food destination in its own right and we know our Bistro will further strengthen that offering. We look forward to opening the doors to this new and exciting venture.”
