THE Farmers Arms in Combe Florey hosted the launch of the 2019 Exmoor Food Fest with a five-course dinner.

Head Chef, Mike Griffiths, was joined in the kitchen by James Mason from Kentisbury Grange, Tim Zekki from Duende and Damien Wager from Edible Art Ltd, who spoiled guests with a celebration of the Taste of Exmoor.

Close to 350 people had applied for the 50 seats available on the launch night, and those lucky enough to get a ticket were not disappointed. Mike Griffiths’ Tempura Oyster Bloody Mary was followed by a delicious guinea fowl dish by Tim Zekki and a Wild Seabass Tartare by James Mason.

The main course by Mike Griffiths was dedicated to Exmoor beef, and Damien Wager impressed with a chocolate and Exmoor Ale combination as desert.

The guest chef dinner kicked off the month-long Exmoor Food Fest which runs 2019 for the fifth time throughout February on and around Exmoor. Michelin starred Thomas Carr at The Olive Room in Ilfracombe are offering special deals which start at £12.50 for two courses.

Some restaurants host specific Exmoor Tasting dinners during February. On February 26, there will be another round of guest chefs at the Farmers Arms for a celebration of Exmoor beef. A final dinner will take place at the Rising Sun in West Bagborough.

If you would like to find out more, visit exmoorfoodfest.com