Monday 5 July 2010

Gunwharf Quays Food, Family Fun & Real Ale Festival

This years event took place over 3 days starting Friday 2nd July with guest Raymond Blanc opening the proceedings.  This is the 6th year this event has taken place now which is good to see it still going strong.

The Food Theatre featured guest chefs cooking in a purpose built kitchen. The kitchen was located in the centre area this time, rather than last year which was over by Raymond's Restaurant.  This hopefully was done to attract more visitors to the demonstrations.  The event also boasted a 40 cask real ale marquee with Wimbledon inspired Champagne and Strawberries, and lots of local food stalls, an Italian Market and a new family area.

Personally I didn't spend too much time looking around all the stores this year, so I can't comment on how good it all was.  I went for one purpose only - to meet the legendary 2 Michelin star chef himself Raymond Blanc OBE, and what a thoroughly nice man.  He hobbled over on his crutches to have a good old chat with me and my friend, which was a real pleasure.  With the crutches and beard he's now sporting I think it took people a while to realise it was him standing talking with us!

All of the main theatre events could be reserved via a 'New for 2010 exclusive VIP packages' which were to include:

Gold Package - £40 per person 10am - 5pm
On arrival half bottle of champagne, Canapes throughout the day from Brasserie Blanc, Front row seats to see Raymond Blanc (Friday) or Richard Fox (Sunday), Entry to the Real Ale Marquee, Ticket to Spinnaker Tower, Bag drop area, all day free car parking, 2 x 20 minute rib rides around the Solent, cash bar, goody bag, souvenir programme, plasma TVs showing Wimbledon finals.

or:

Silver Package - £25 per person 10am - 2pm/1:30pm - 5pm
On arrival glass of champagne, Canapes throughout the day from Brasserie Blanc, Reserved seats to see Raymond Blanc (Friday) or Richard Fox (Sunday), Entry to the Real Ale Marquee, Ticket to Spinnaker Tower, Bag drop area, 2 hours free car parking, 1 x 20 minute rib rides around the Solent, Cash bar, Goody bag, Souvenir programme, Plasma TVs showing Wimbledon finals.


Were the tickets value for money, and did many people purchase these tickets i would love to know?  I know one gentleman who sat behind us who had been given the gold package as a gift who was a little unhappy as his first rib ride never showed up, and his guaranteed front seat to see Raymond Blanc was just not guaranteed and he had to sit in the row behind us, and we had not paid a bean to see him!  I felt a little sorry for him, as the organisation did not seem to run too smoothly.  I am yet to ask him how the rest of his package went (as he just so happens to be a neighbour!)
 
Still, I'm looking forward to it again next year, please make it bigger and better than ever, as i would hate it to disappear like other foodie events do!  As a customer I would love to give some input on what would be good to see next year, so please ask your public GWQ!!

1 comment:

  1. Hiya

    There were surveys at the event for us to fill in where they could leave feedback. We even have the chance to win £50 but i havnt heard if ive won yet ;-)

    I gave my feedback so hopefully it may make its way to next years event.

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