Visit Waterford launch the ‘Ultimate ‘Blaa Road Trip’

The iconic Waterford Blaa, a cherished staple of Irish culinary heritage, has been officially added to the Oxford English Dictionary this week, marking a significant milestone in its history. This recognition underscores the cultural and gastronomic importance of the soft, flour-dusted bread roll that has been synonymous with Waterford for over three centuries.

A Bite of History

The origins of the Blaa date back to the late 17th century when French Huguenots arrived in Waterford. These refugees introduced their baking traditions to the region, crafting white bread rolls from leftover dough pieces. Over time, these rolls became known as “Blaa,” possibly derived from the French words “blaad” (an old term for flour) or “blanc” (meaning white), reflecting their distinctive appearance.

In 2013, the Waterford Blaa was awarded Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status by the European Commission, ensuring that only those produced in Waterford and its environs could bear the name.

Celebrating Recognition with the Ultimate Blaa Roadtrip

To commemorate the Blaa’s inclusion in the Oxford English Dictionary, Visit Waterford is delighted to offer visitors the chance to embark on “A Taste of Waterford: The Ultimate Blaa Roll Trip.” This culinary journey invites enthusiasts to explore the rich heritage of the Blaa by visiting renowned local eateries that have perfected this delicacy.

Waterford is famous for many things, including the iconic and beloved Blaa. Commenting on the news for the Blaa and the ‘Ultimate Blaa Roadtrip’, Chair of Visit Waterford Clare Barrett says, “We love to celebrate our 1111 years of history and heritage here in Waterford, including our unique and distinctive gastronomic heritage, so we are delighted to share the details of the ‘Ultimate Blaa Roadtrip’ and we know that participants will not only get to indulge in the unique flavours of the Blaa but also gain insights into its historical significance and the artistry involved in its creation if they ask any proud local during their visit.”

The Ultimate Blaa Road Trip

The Waterford Blaa can be enjoyed as a hearty breakfast, a gourmet sandwich, or even a burger bun;

this soft, floury ‘roll’ is a must-try for any visitor.  Follow the Ultimate Blaa Roadtrip itinerary to discover the best places in Waterford to experience the Blaa in all its delicious forms.

Morning: The Classic Breakfast Blaa Start your day with a true Waterford tradition: the breakfast Blaa. Several fantastic spots serve this morning’s delight, offering combinations of bacon, sausage, egg, and more. Enjoy a hearty breakfast Blaa to fuel your day at Dooley’s Hotel or relax at Faithlegg Hotel a luxurious setting for a delicious morning treat, head to Dunmore East to The Haven Hotel – to enjoy a classic breakfast Blaa by the coast; Pier 37 at the Tower Hotel for riverside location for your morning bite; The Viking Hotel is the perfect stop for a satisfying breakfast Blaa or Waterford Castle to experience elegance with their eggs benedict on a Blaa; at Waterford Golf Club is a golfer’s dream breakfast before heading out on the course and in the city centre at House of Waterford Crystal Café it’s a refined setting to enjoy a breakfast Blaa in the heart of Waterford.

For a midday treat, try a Blaa with a Twist and explore the more creative ways Waterford’s eateries serve up the Blaa. At The Local in Dungarvan, enjoy a mouth-watering steak sandwich served on a Blaa; at Bodega in the city, try a variety of gourmet sandwiches using the famous roll. At Grow HQ try a fresh take with locally sourced vegan ingredients on a Blaa. At The Granville Hotel try their take on eggs benedict on a Blaa and at The Stables Cafe at Mount Congreve Gardens check out their ‘Blaa Boy’ menu options.

For evening dining, try the burgers on a Blaa as you wrap up your day with a delicious twist on the classic Blaa. Try Eunice Power’s AndChips for a mouth-watering burger served on a Blaa. The Engine House is a renowned spot for a Blaa Smashburger or the Round Tower Hotel in Ardmore for a delicious classic Irish beef burger on Blaa.

If you’d like to enjoy a true celebration of the Waterford Blaa, be guided by a knowledgeable and enthusiastic Tour Guide, Sinead Reil, on a Tasteful Tour where you will be guided on a journey to sample Waterford’s famous breakfast Blaa and learn about its rich heritage.

Join the Celebration

For more details on the Ultimate Blaa Roadtrip and participating locations, check out the itinerary here https://visitwaterford.com/a-taste-of-waterford-the-ultimate-blaa-roll-trail/ or VisitWaterford.com

 

Blaas are made fresh daily in Waterford by Walsh’s Bakehouse, who make the traditional Blaa-with techniques passed down through generations at this family-run bakery; Hickey’s Bakery has made the authentic taste of hand-crafted Blaas in Waterford since 1958 and in West Waterford Barron’s Bakery & Coffee House are baking Blaas in Scotch Brick ovens since 1887.