All aboard! Chef Alan Woods serves as head chef of Belmond Grand Hibernian, a luxury rail experience through Ireland, a first of its kind for the country that debuted in August. Not only does the train traverse the scenic Irish countryside, but, thanks to Woods, it also serves up authentic cuisine showcasing the best of Ireland’s diverse ingredients.
Woods is known for his contemporary twist on traditional Irish fare, and passengers on the two-, four- or six-night itineraries from Dublin will enjoy dishes such as roast Killarney venison loin, scallops from the Beara Peninsula, Donegal turf-smoked salmon and traditional seafood chowder as they visit cities in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
“The Gulf Stream makes the waters a little warmer and the seafood a little sweeter,” said Woods, who previously worked at a host of restaurants including Michelin-starred Thornton’s in Dublin, The Ivory Restaurant Cork City, Restaurant Jean Luc Figures Barcelona and Longueville House Hotel in County Cork.
His creative vision and understanding of Irish ingredients strengthens Belmond’s commitment to offering an authentic experience on board. Belmond Grand Hibernian, with two dining cars and an observation car reminiscent of an Irish saloon, accommodates 40 travelers in en-suite cabins.
When not preparing exceptional Irish cuisine, Woods can be found continuing to combine his love of food and travel while cycling in West Cork, exploring the mountains and beaches back home in Kinsale and traveling to Germany and Spain with his German partner.
WHAT THREE GO-TO INGREDIENTS ARE ALWAYS IN YOUR HOME KITCHEN?
My three favorite and go-to ingredients are extra-virgin olive oil, cumin seeds and local artisan Cheddar cheese.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SEASON FOR COOKING, AND WHY?
It has to be autumn because of the start of game season and the ingredients available. The wild game on offer includes mallard, venison, woodcock and snipe, as well as mushrooms.
ASIDE FROM YOUR CURRENT POSITION, WHAT’S THE BEST JOB YOU’VE EVER HAD?
I left Ireland at age 20 to work at Vincent on Camelback in Phoenix, Ariz. There I was introduced to Mexican food and the Mexican people. The expert chefs took me under their wings, and I learned many skills from that team.
WHAT’S THE FIRST MEAL YOU EVER COOKED?
It was wild rabbit stew, which I cooked at Boy Scouts when I was about 12 years old.
Read This Next
Best in Class: Letter from the Editor
December 2016
Dec 1, 2016
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Feb 13, 2025Trendy Delano Miami Beach Hotel Reopens This Year
Ennismore and partner Cain International are expecting to reopen the well-known Delano Miami Beach hotel in 2025 after completing a full renovation.
Sponsored Content
United Airlines First to Purchase Sustainable Aviation Fuel for ORD
Chicago O’Hare International Airport will soon receive sustainable aviation fuel, all thanks to United Airlines, which became the first airline to purchase SAF for use at the airport, one of the largest in the United States. Neste, a producer of SAF, will provide up to 1 million gallons of its Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel. The first supply arrived in August.
Daily
Feb 13, 2025Florida’s Amrit Ocean Resort Launches Wellness Retreat Series
Situated on Florida’s Singer Island, recently opened Amrit Ocean Resort launches a wellness retreat series. Held monthly, this series aims to inspire longevity. The first retreat kicks off Feb. 27.
Daily
Feb 13, 2025Aman to Open Its First Property in Bangkok
More than 35 years after opening its first property, Amanpuri, in Phuket, Aman returns to Thailand with the opening of Aman Nai Lert in Bangkok. Set to debut April 2, the 52-suite property lies within privately owned Nai Lert Park, offering guests a secluded haven in the middle of the bustling city, much like sister property Aman New York.
Sponsored Content
Discover the Pristine Beauty of the Sporades Islands
Nestled in the northwest Aegean Sea, the Sporades Islands are a hidden gem of Greece, offering breathtaking natural beauty and unique experiences for every traveler. Comprised of four main islands — Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros — this island cluster is renowned for its lush pine forests, crystal-clear waters and idyllic beaches.
Daily
Feb 12, 2025Colorado Dragon Boat Film Festival Returns in March
Celebrating the best of Asian and Asian American filmmaking, Colorado’s Dragon Boat Film Festival is a fun mix of screenings by established and emerging artists. The theme of this year’s event is Honoring Our Past to Guide Our Future, held March 14–16 at Denver Sie Center.
6 Destinations and Hotels for Solo Women Travelers
Daily
Feb 12, 2025New SIRO Hotel to Open in Tokyo in 2029
eFlyer News
Feb 12, 2025eFlyer Deals
Feb 12, 2025Have a Galentine’s to Remember at Holston House Nashville
Available for stays Feb. 13–17, Holston House Nashville’s Galentine’s offer is sure to elevate your girls’ trip to the next level. This offer starts at just $50 above the hotel’s standard room rate and comes with:
Sponsored Content
Experience Next-Level Travel with Condor Airlines’ New A330neo Fleet
Condor Airlines completely renewed its long-haul fleet, featuring its new Airbus A330neo. Designed to elevate your travel experience, the A330neo is equipped with cutting-edge technology and offers unrivaled comfort, ensuring an exceptional journey for every passenger. With its striking signature striped livery, the A330neo not only promises a memorable flight but also enhances the start of your vacation from the moment you step aboard.
eFlyer Deals
Feb 12, 2025Last-Minute Valentine’s Day Deal at The Benjamin Royal Sonesta Hotel
Still looking for a Valentine’s Day offer? The Benjamin Royal Sonesta Hotel, in New York City, has the LOVE Ben promotion available. With this offer, enjoy a stay in the hotel’s signature suite, as well as a private, late-night MoMA tour for two (with transportation included).
ShareThis