Great Wight Bite Returns To Cowes With Bigger Serving Of Foodie Entertainment

Following the successful launch of the Great Wight Bite in 2023, the Island’s food and drink festival is set to return on Saturday and Sunday 7-8 September at Northwood House in Cowes.

Last year saw over 5,000 foodies sample culinary delights and entertainment from across the Isle of Wight and south coast.

Organisers are excited to announce the legendary Italian chef Gennaro Contaldo will be joining this year’s festival.

Mentor to Jamie Oliver, Gennaro is a regular on Saturday Morning Kitchen as well as a host of TV credits and brains behind a myriad of cook books.

The Chefs Demonstration Stage also welcomes back the award-winning writer and broadcaster Chris Bavin, who will host the Island’s talented chefs. 

Drinks expert and Gurnard local Helena Nicklin will also join the line-up.

Commenting on appearing at this year’s Great Wight Bite, Gennaro said:

“I’m excited to be heading to the Isle of Wight for this year’s festival, the last time I was on the Island was 20 years ago,

"I’m looking forward to being on stage with some of the island’s talented chefs and a fantastic way to inspire the next generation of ‘little chefs’ is in the festival’s very own cookery school where I will be involved in a very special cooking session.”

Commenting on his return to Cowes for the Great Wight Bite, Chris Bavin, said:

“Last year’s festival was one of my highlights of the summer.

"There was such a great atmosphere and it was great fun working with all the local chefs who are rightly passionate about the Island’s produce.

"I’m looking forward to being part of this year’s event and getting involved across the various stages plus enjoying some fantastic food and drink.”

The Little Chefs Den will once again be led by Ben and Holly Cooke from the Little Gloster, who will be cooking up a weekend of incredible foodie classes with the help of some special guests.

This year will see the launch of adult cooking classes led by Zoe Ombler from the Epicurean Sailor.

The classes will include a drinks element covering Island gins, rums and beers plus wine tastings delivered by writer and broadcaster Helena Nicklin.

Also new for this September is the launch of a ‘Saturday evening festival ticket’ from 4.30pm – 9.30pm.

Great Wight Bite Event Director, Richard Nowell, added:

“Following the success of the first Great Wight Bite, we are excited to be returning to Northwood House and cramming as much food and drink entertainment into the weekend as possible.

"We are also delighted to be welcoming one of the UK’s best loved chefs in Gennaro Contaldo, teaming up with drinks expert Helena Nicklin and having the brilliant Chris Bavin join us again.”