In Episode 20 of the Shnug podcast we speak to chef, writer, restaurateur, painter Dr. Jp McMahon. Originally from Dublin Jp has been has been working in Galway for over 15 years, opening Cava in 2008 and Aniar in 2011, with the latter achieving a coveted Michelin star. Jp is also behind the ‘Food on the Edge’ international food symposium and the Galway based food network Blas Na Gaillmh and recently he also won Galway Business person of the year 2023, and author of two books.

We chat about the thought process behind his most recent publication ‘The Irish Cook Book’, which travels back thousands of years to delve into the history of Ireland’s food heritage and Irish cuisine, his love of using local produce and how this influences his restaurants; in particular Aniar, whose ethos in particular is intrinsically linked to the west of Ireland. We also touch on the pressure that comes with achieving and retaining a Michelin star and the creation of the ‘Blas Na Gaillmh’ network. That brings producers, restaurants, bars, cafes and hotels together under one roof via the events its hosts and its website, the next event being ‘Blas na Bealtaine’ in May. ‘Food on the Edge’ also returns to Galway in October to boot. Finally we touch on the legacy such a body of work leaves behind.

Aniar 2.0 reopens after refurbishments this Friday the 9TH of February.