THERE'S a month-long treat in store for foodies following the two-day launch of the ninth Exmoor Food Fest.

A guest chef dinner at Duende restaurant, in Wiveliscombe, yesterday (Monday, January 29) kicked off the celebration of the region's finest hospitality and greatest chefs.

A second launch night is taking place at the same venue tonight (Tuesday, January 30) ahead of the food fest, during which participating eateries will offer special menu deals throughout February, when people will be encouraged to "eat your way across Exmoor".

At last night's launch, Duende’s chef and patron Tim Zekki was joined in the kitchen by fellow chefs Olivier Certain, of The Bittescombe Inn, in Upton; Miguel Tenreiro, from The Porlock Weir Hotel; Martin Baylis, of New Coast Kitchen, in Braunton; as well as Joseph Roach and Sophie-Jane Rogers, both from the Farmers Arms, in Combe Florey.

The second launch night at Duende tonight will feature a different cast of chefs.

Elke Winzer, the founder and organiser of Exmoor Food Fest, said: “It is exciting that, even in its ninth year, the Exmoor Food Fest continues to go from strength to strength.

"Not only does it promote our fantastic hospitality scene and great chefs, it also brings a community together.”

Once again, restaurants across the region have joined in the industry-led initiative during a time of year which is notoriously difficult for the hospitality sector, even more so during the current cost of living crisis.

READ MORE: Masterchef judge launches Exmoor Food Fest 2023.

The Exmoor Food Fest encourages locals and visitors alike to find new venues, try new dishes or revisit old favourites.

“We have great plans already in place for our 10th anniversary in 2025, including a Taste Exmoor cookbook which will not only feature recipes by our chefs, but the public will also be invited to submit their favourite recipes cooked with local produce”, added Elke Winzer.

For further information about the restaurants taking part in Exmoor Food Fest and their menus, visit www.exmoorfoodfest.com

Exmoor Food Fest was first held in 2015, while last year's launch event was held at the Farmers Arms, in Combe Florey. with guests and chefs welcomed by Masterchef judge William Sitwell.