The 2016 Taste Awards and Tourism Accolades recently recognised the quality of local restaurants and accommodation providers across the Isle of Man.
The Taste Awards celebrate food and drink establishments Island-wide offering the opportunity for businesses to receive The Highest Quality Assured, Quality Assured or Harvest Scheme Taste Awards.
Accommodation providers are also recognised for their levels of quality and can be awarded Silver, Gold and Breakfast Accolades.
Rob Callister MHK, the Department Member with responsibility for Tourism commented:
‘It is a pleasure to award this year’s winners with the accolades that they have truly earned. It is important to recognise the hospitality industry for their hard work and the impression that they make on visiting tourists.
‘Tourism not only makes the Isle of Man a great destination to visit but also showcases the Isle of Man as a fantastic place to live, work and invest, enhancing our quality of life and supporting the overall economy too.’
This year 24 establishments received the Highest Quality Award, which included two new venues and 22 returning from the previous year.
Four new establishments also received the Quality Assured Accolades bringing this year’s Quality Assured Award winners to 25.
This year 18 establishments received Harvest Scheme Accolades, which includes both accommodation providers and Taste members. This award is provided in partnership with The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture and recognises real champions of local produce.
Accommodation Accolades were awarded to 22 providers, with 16 achieving Gold recognition and six receiving Silver awards. 31 establishments retained the Breakfast Accolade, and three new venues were awarded this year.
Angela Byrne, Head of Tourism for the Department of Economic Development, added:
‘We are extremely proud to celebrate the high levels of quality of the hospitality industry on the Isle of Man. The quality assurance schemes ensure visitors have an excellent and memorable experience on the Island. Next year we are introducing The Families Welcome Scheme which will support Taste establishments and visitor accommodation by providing visiting families with information they need to book accommodation and eateries which will suit their individual needs.’
For more information about the Taste scheme visit www.visitisleofman.com/food-and-drink/taste-quality-assured
Photo - Rob Callister MHK and Nicola Wilkinson BDM
