ITV This Morning presenter lands own food and travel series

Dermot O'Leary is set to combine his passions for food and travel in a new television venture. The This Morning presenter, who hails from Irish heritage, will be presenting the five-part series Dermot's Taste of Ireland on ITV1 and ITVX.

In this culinary journey, Dermot, who has ventured into the restaurant business with two fish-themed eateries, will return to his familial homeland of Ireland. His mission is to uncover the country's most delectable hidden gems. Expressing his enthusiasm for the project, Dermot said: "I can't wait to embark on this trip, to explore two of my great loves, Ireland and food."

He further added: "The food scene in Ireland is so exciting and to meet the people and try the produce will be a real treat."

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Highlighting the evolution of Irish cuisine, Dermot remarked: "It's exciting to see modern Ireland through second generation eyes - and to show that Ireland's food is more than cabbage and stews... although all their cabbage and stews are also great!"

Throughout Dermot's Taste of Ireland, viewers will accompany Dermot as he savours iconic Irish dishes such as hearty stews, freshly baked soda bread, exquisite seafood, and traditional potato pancakes. The series promises to introduce audiences to the chefs and community figures who are at the forefront of celebrating and preserving Ireland's rich food culture. Additionally, Dermot's adventures will take him to Cork where he'll try his hand at oyster fishing, and to Dublin to experience the vibrant local food scene, before venturing into Northern Ireland.

ITV's assistant commissioner for entertainment and daytime, Leanne Clarke, expressed excitement about the new series, stating: "We are thrilled to be commissioning this brand new series, Dermot's Taste of Ireland with one of our much-loved talents here at ITV. We can't wait to learn more about the history and culture that Ireland has to offer." For the latest TV and showbiz news, sign up to our newsletter.