Taste - March/April 2026 Dunns Food and Drinks Foodservice Promotions
March &April Foodie Dates
With longer days and brighter mornings just around the corner, March and April mark a welcome shift in both season and appetite. From sporting celebrations and cultural festivals to seasonal traditions and sustainability spotlights, there’s no shortage of opportunities to captivate customers and breathe new life into your menus.
As spring approaches, it’s the perfect moment to introduce brighter flavours and make the most of key occasions that keep calendars and tables full. We’ve rounded up the standout dates to help you plan ahead, stay inspired and turn every occasion into one worth booking for!
March Highlights
Glasgow International Comedy Festival – 11th – 29th March
As one of Europe’s largest comedy festivals arrives in Glasgow, it brings a lively buzz and plenty of opportunity for venues to join the fun.
Keep things relaxed and sociable with easy-to-serve small plates and handheld favourites that pair perfectly with pre-gig drinks. Consider playful menu descriptions, limited-edition specials or themed cocktails to capture the spirit of the festival!
Mother’s Day – 15th March
This Mother’s Day, help your guests
April Highlights
Easter Sunday – 5th April
Easter Sunday is one of the biggest dining occasions of the calendar, with families gathering for a traditional roast at the heart of the celebration.
Succulent lamb takes centre stage, served with crisp roast potatoes, seasonal spring vegetables and rich, flavourful gravy. Complement the main event with classic starters and comforting desserts to create a menu that feels generous and celebratory.
Looking for a little inspiration?
Head to Donnie’s Dishes on page (?) to see how our Executive Development Chef is dishing up this Easter Sunday.
Earth Day – 22nd April
This Earth Day, shine a spotlight on seasonal produce, responsibly sourced ingredients, and plant-based dishes that celebrate sustainability. Use your menu to tell the story of
celebrate the women in their life with a classic, beautifully presented afternoon tea.
Delight in freshly baked scones served with jam and clotted cream, alongside a tempting assortment of miniature pastries and sweet treats.
Designed for slowing down and celebrating together, this is more than just afternoon tea - it’s about creating a heartfelt experience and a day of cherished memories.
St. Patrick’s Day – 17th March
A celebration rich in heritage and hospitality, St Patrick’s Day is the perfect opportunity to showcase Irish-inspired dishes and hearty fare. Whether you go traditional or contemporary, it’s a day built around generous plates and good company. Head to page 12 to get inspired!
your support for local suppliers and the creative dishes born from your commitment to reducing waste.
It’s more than just a date in the diary - it’s an opportunity to demonstrate transparency, showcase innovation, and highlight a forward-thinking approach to your menu.
Slow Roast Leg of Lamb
DONNIE’S DISHES
Easter Sunday is one of the few moments in the year when diners actively seek out a traditional roast - but tradition doesn’t have to mean predictable. Lamb remains the natural centrepiece for spring menus, yet by leaning into the season’s brighter flavours, chefs can refresh the classic without losing its sense of occasion!
1. Mix garlic, lemon zest, mustard, honey, herbs and oil into a paste.
2. Rub over lamb shoulder and season well.
3. Roast at 160°C fan for 4–4.5 hours, covered for the first 3 hours, then uncovered to caramelise.
4. Rest at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Parboil potatoes in salted water for 8 minutes, drain and rough up.
6. Heat fat in tray at 200°C.
7. Roast potatoes for 45–55 mins until crisp.
8. Toss with chopped preserved lemon and salt just before serving.
9. Deglaze roasting tray with wine and scrape flavour.
10. Add stock and simmer until reduced.
11. Stir in shredded wild garlic, mint, and butter.
12. Season and strain if desired.
13. To serve: Pull lamb into large pieces rather than slicing.
Bouillon Powders
We all know what our favourite drinks are on St. Patrick’s Day, but your menu deserves to join the celebration too. This year, elevate the occasion with limited-time Irishinspired specials that bring flavour, fun, and a touch of the Emerald Isle to your customers.
Step into the warmth and charm of Ireland with dishes that blend comforting tradition and bold, on-trend appeal. From rich Guinness stew to street-food favourites and indulgent desserts, these creations are designed to comfort, surprise, and delight, making your St. Patrick’s Day celebration truly memorable.
STIR UP A LITTLE IRISH
From rich, slow-simmered classics to street-food favourites, discover Irish-inspired specials
Hearty Guinness & Lamb Stew
Rich, smoky, and slightly sweet, this is comfort food with an Irish flair. Give the much-loved traditional Irish stew a delicious upgrade with tender lamb simmered alongside earthy parsnips, sweet carrots, and a splash of Guinness. Smoked paprika and Worcestershire sauce add savory depth, while fresh thyme and parsley brighten each hearty, flavorful bite.
1. Brown lamb in olive oil, then sauté vegetables until lightly caramelized.
2. Add lamb back to the pot with Guinness, stock, Worcestershire, paprika, and thyme.
3. Simmer for 1-1.5 hours until lamb is tender.
4. Season, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with warm soda bread.
IRISH MAGIC
worth raising a glass to.
Classic Irish Soda Bread
No Irish feast is complete without this golden, rustic bread! Soft on the inside with a slightly crisp crust, it’s perfect for slathering with butter, serving alongside your Hearty Guiness Stew, or enjoying fresh from the oven.
Ingredients
» 4 cups all-purpose flour
» 1 tsp baking soda
» 1 tsp salt
» 1 ¾ cups buttermilk
Method
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Mix flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Gradually add buttermilk until a soft dough forms.
3. Shape into a round loaf, place on a baking sheet, and cut a cross on top.
4. Bake 35–40 minutes until golden brown.
5. Cool slightly, slice, and enjoy warm.
Creamy vanilla ice cream meets a hot shot of espresso
Irish Spice Bag
The Irish Spice Bag has taken the street-food scene by storm!
Crispy chicken, golden fries, sautéed peppers and onions, and a signature blend of spices come together in a takeaway-style bag for the ultimate street-food experience. Give it a shake to coat every bite in bold flavour. Packed with heat, texture, and attitude, it’s comfort food with a playful, interactive twist, perfect for foodies who love something fun, flavorful, and memorable.
Ingredients
» Chicken breast or thigh, cut into bite-sized pieces
» Optional: chilli sauce or cheese sauce for drizzling
Method
1. Toss the chicken in your spice mix and cook until golden and crispy.
2. Fry or bake the fries until crispy.
3. Lightly sauté the peppers and onions until just tender.
4. Combine the chicken, fries, and veggies in a serving bag, then shake well to coat everything evenly in the spices.
5. Drizzle with your choice of sauce (chilli, cheese, or garlic) if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy the crunch!
Shanky’s Whip Affogato
End your St. Patrick’s Day feast with a decadent treat. Creamy vanilla ice cream meets a hot shot of espresso, topped with the luxurious Shanky’s Whip for a dessert that’s indulgent and irresistible!
One of our most popular lines, these lightly salted La Mexicana tortilla chips are the perfect base for loaded nachos on any Mexican or Tex-Mex menu. Product Code: 41392
Mex Chii Toa Chips
La Mexicana triangular tortilla chips, dusted with a medium-heat chilli seasoning for a bold Mexican or Tex-Mex menu staple. Product Code: 43953
Stealth Fries®
Our secret weapon. Innovative, unequalled and undeniably delicious, our Stealth Fries® have a patented thin coating. This makes them crunchier than standard fries and keeps them warm twice as long. It’s a trade secret we’re happy to share.
Long holding time
Super crunchy
More portions per kilogram
Premium consistent quality
Locally sourced potatoes, 50% less food was te, and sus tainable prac t ices at ever y s tep - helping you ser ve up t he f ut ure of food.
Snacking menus are
better with fries
Unlock new snacking occasions this Summer with trending flavours and fries that boost your bottom line.
