Express & Star

BBC Good Food Show, Birmingham's NEC - review

It’s a paradise fit for even the most avid foodie, and this year’s BBC Good Food Show did everything but disappoint.

Published
The Hairy Bikers on stage at the NEC in Birmingham

Endless stalls, constant samples of dishes and tipples, celebrity-spotting, bargain buys and bags full of goodies ensured this is already one of my highlights of the summer.

Joining thousands of early risers who had packed themselves into Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre on Friday, I prepared myself to be happily plied with grub and drinks for at least eight hours.

Despite not being a first-time visitor to the food show, walking into the NEC and gazing your eyes across more than 300 traders is always slightly overwhelming – where do you start?

But after weaving through the bustling crowds, you’ll find yourself snapping up more alcohol than you dare to remember and enough food to soak it all up.

Over at The Big Kitchen, The Hairy Bikers took to the stage, bringing the laughs with their quick-wit as they whipped up mussels, chicken and cake-in-a-mug.

Celebrity chefs, including Britain’s Best Home Cook judge Dan Doherty, also darted across the NEC signing books and revealing their cooking tips and tricks during special interviews.

Foodies also got the chance to indulge in the ‘ultimate chocolate and coffee tasting experience’ from Lindt, try a masterclass at the Skills School and join expert tasting sessions with the BBC Good Food Wine Club.

It’s always one of my favourite events of the year and really is bliss for any food lover.

It might feel like you’ve been walking for miles around the NEC just to make sure you don’t miss out on grabbing all the cheese, sausages, sweet treats and drinks but is definitely worth a visit.

The BBC Good Food Show Summer runs until Sunday, with the festive-themed Winter show returning from November 29 until December 2.