We were proud to host our first chef takeover — a special seafood weekend with the incredibly talented Stephane Delourme on Friday 20th and Saturday 21st September.
The festivities kicked off with an exclusive boat trip organised by Aquaholics, taking our guests on a scenic journey along the stunning Causeway Coast. We cruised past some of the most iconic landmarks in the region, including the majestic Giant’s Causeway, the medieval ruins of Dunluce Castle, and, our namesake, the striking Elephant Rock in Ballintoy. We got superb weather and were able to stop for a swim near the breathtaking Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, providing a perfect respite and a unique perspective of this stunning coastline.
A highlight of the trip was our stop at Rathlin Island, where we had the opportunity to collect hand-dived scallops—fresh, delicious, and sustainably sourced. This hands-on experience was a reminder of the incredible seafood right on our doorstep and the importance of sustainable practices that ensure that the local marine life can be preserved and enjoyed for generations to come.
Friday’s Ofyr BBQ: Fish and Fire
Friday evening saw guests gather on the Elephant Rock Hotel’s ocean-view terrace for a memorable Ofyr BBQ. To start the evening, we treated guests to a cremant and oyster reception, featuring the finest Louët-Feisser oysters from the Carlingford Oyster Company. The delicate and briny oysters paired perfectly with sparkling crémant, setting the tone for the spectacular seafood that followed.
Against the backdrop of the sea, Stephane Delourme showcased his culinary skills, serving up hand-dived Rathlin scallops, monkfish, and Ballycastle lobster. The BBQ setup allowed for an intimate dining experience, with guests savouring each bite as the sun set over the coastline.
Saturday’s Gala Dinner: Five-Course Tasting Menu
The festivities continued on Saturday night with a spectacular five-course gala dinner. Guests were treated to dishes featuring scallops, monkfish, lobster in Champagne sauce, and brill, each course more delicious than the last.
The gala dinner was a true celebration of the Causeway Coast’s rich marine heritage, with each dish highlighting the freshness and quality of locally sourced seafood.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our guests who joined us for this unforgettable weekend. Your presence and enthusiasm helped make this event one of the most memorable in Elephant Rock’s history. Special thanks go to Stephane Delourme, whose culinary mastery delighted all of our guests over the course of the two days.
We also want to express our gratitude to our suppliers, whose commitment to quality and sustainability made this event possible: Owen Donaghy, Ewings, Mortons, Greenhouse Brothers, Corndale Farm, Partie de Moi, Broighter Gold, and Dart Mountain Cheese. Your dedication to sourcing the best local ingredients ensured that our guests experienced the finest seafood the region has to offer.
This Seafood Takeover was more than just a dining experience; it was a celebration of local, sustainable fish, and a testament to the incredible potential of Northern Ireland’s coastal waters. We look forward to hosting many more events that celebrate our region’s rich culinary heritage. Until then, thank you for being part of this incredible weekend with us!
