During the past year fourteen new eateries have gained Taste Isle of Man accreditation. Four of these achieved the Highest Quality Assured Award; twenty-two Isle of Man accommodation providers received Gold and Silver Accolades for providing customer service excellence to visitors; and six local eateries were given Harvest Awards for their commitment to using local produce.
Prior to the presentation of the awards, the Department’s Political Member for Tourism Laurence Skelly MHK commented:
‘The Department’s strategy for the visitor economy is committed to supporting a high quality visitor experience which exceeds their expectations so I’d like to congratulate all those who have achieved new or upgraded Taste Isle of Man accreditation or an Accommodation Accolade.
‘I believe that there has never been a better time to eat out in the Isle of Man, which is enabling the Island to keep up with the growing expectations of both residents and visitors.’
Angela Byrne, Head of Tourism, commented:
‘Eating out in the Isle of Man plays an important role in the Isle of Man’s economy both financially and from a quality of life perspective. Gaining accreditation also helps support local eateries as this acts as an effective promotional tool via their listing and rating in the Taste Directory, which has been updated for the 2013-14 period.
‘Similarly, provision of high quality accommodation and customer service is vital if we are to keep maintaining the growth in the visitor economy, which increased by £5m to £103M in 2012.
‘It’s important that we continue to support accommodation providers who have attained high levels of quality and service offered in their properties. These accolades reflect their hard work and I congratulate them on their achievements.
‘The new Harvest accolade is awarded in recognition of exceptional effort by eateries in the sourcing, use and promotion of local produce. The six accredited venues have demonstrated that this is a core part of their business ethos and that this is communicated to their customers through their menus, specials and the knowledge of their front of house staff. A distinctive orange ‘Harvest’ sign will be displayed at each of these accredited premises.’
Details of all Taste Isle of Man accredited restaurants and cafes can be found in the new Taste Isle of Man Directory 2013-2014. This is available at all Taste accredited establishments or from the Welcome Centre in Douglas. Alternatively, details can be found at http://www.visitisleofman.com/thingstoseeanddo/eatingout/tasteisleofman
