THE LO & SLO STORY
Lo & Slo began during a challenging time for our family, when Norman fell ill and we were reminded of the importance of slowing down and being together. Cooking became more than nourishment; it became a way to reconnect, restore, and share time around the table.
What started as a Food Truck has grown into award-winning sauces and seasonings, and Wild & Fired, our live fire cooking, foraging, and dining experiences at Brook Hall Estate & Gardens in Derry.
For us, sustainability is about care, for the land, the people involved, and the future of the work itself. In a world that often pushes food to be cheaper and faster, we choose a more considered path, focusing on quality ingredients, thoughtful cooking, and experiences designed to last.
We are deliberately subversive in a food industry under pressure to go cheaper and faster. Rather than racing to the bottom, we choose quality ingredients, skilled work, and a sustainable pace — building something that can last.
We’re proud that this approach has been recognised with the first ever Green Award from the Independent Cookery Schools Association.
Join us as we celebrate the art of slow cooking, and the enchantment of our beautiful natural surroundings, and connecting over the love of good food.
WILD & FIRED BBQ SCHOOL
PRIVATE CATERING IN THE WALLED GARDEN
FOOD TRUCK HIRE
THE VALUES THAT FUEL OUR FIRE
CONNECTION & EDUCATION
We provide a welcoming space for people to experience a sense of renewal & well-being. By learning new skills, guests build deeper connections with themselves, each other, and the land.
LOCAL & artisanal PRODUCE
We prioritise locally sourced, seasonal ingredients from trusted farmers and producers. Every dish celebrates the rich flavours of our region, enabling our guests to 'Taste the Landscape'.
QUALITY EQUIPMENT & EXPERT GUIDES
Get hands-on experience & master ancient cooking techniques using state-of-the-art grilling equipment, expertly guided every step of the way by our passionate BBQ specialists.
Intimate Communal Dining
Enjoy the fruits of your labour with a communal feast! Savour every smoky bite, & celebrate your culinary triumphs together—an unforgettable way to strengthen team bonds and create lasting memories.
SUSTAINABILITY & RESPONSIBLE SOURCING
our priorities
Whilst we're delivering delicious food, award winning products and memorable BBQ school experiences, we're also being mindful of our responsibility to the wider community. We strive to foster and contribute to a better future for all. Part of this is prioritising the following responsible practices:
Sourcing: Local, organic, and ethically-sourced ingredients reduce our carbon footprint.
Waste Reduction: Recycling, composting, reusable containers, and eco-friendly packaging minimise waste.
Energy Efficiency: We invest in energy-efficient equipment to minimise environmental impact.
Water Conservation: We follow water-efficient practices and educate our staff on reducing water waste.
Community Engagement: We support local sustainability initiatives and give back to our local community.
Continuous Improvement: We are always learning and regularly review our practices to further reduce our impact.
Have a Question?
Got general questions, feedback, or simply want to chat about all things BBQ?
We'd love to hear from you!
Accreditations & Accolades
Wild & Fired experiences have been awarded a prestigious accreditation for their exceptional teaching standards and facilities, from the Independent Cookery Schools Association (ICSA). This is a first for the industry as it also recognises their sustainability credentials and exceptional outdoor cookery experiences.
Emily was awarded both the 'Local Food Hero, Derry' by the Irish Restaurant Awards 2024 and 'Street Food of The Year - Ulster Winner' in the Yes Chef Awards 2024.
Emily has also been recognised as a 'Platinum Level Innovator' by Invest NI, as well as being a finalist in the Great British Entrepreneur Awards and TedX.
Lo & Slo is a proud member of Slow Food Movement, Food NI, and Legenderry Food Network.
AWARD-WINNING
Our sauce & seasoning collection has been recognised by some of the key food industry bodies, including the Irish Food Awards (Blas na hEireann) whom in 2019 awarded Lo & Slo Bronze and Silver Awards for our Original BBQ Sauce and our Chilli Mop Sauce. As well as more recently, Gold and two Silvers at the Great British Food Awards 2023.
