County Roscommon butcher comes tops in Connacht for best striploin steak
The Irish Steak Challenge 2025 is organised and managed by the Associated Craft Butchers of Ireland. Pic: iStock
Morris Meats butchers in Elphin have scooped a major award for producing the best striploin steak in Connacht.
The Elphin butcher shop on Main Street won the top regional award in this category at the National Irish Steak Challenge 2025, held last Sunday at the Champions Hall in The Curragh, Co Kildare.
Entrants from all over Ireland came together to compete for the title of best steak in Ireland.
Morris Meats were also awarded a Gold award for its ribeye steak and a Silver award for its fillet steak.
In a social media message, Morris Meats said it was delighted to receive an award in every category it had entered.
"These awards are a true testament to our commitment for quality. We pride ourselves on our locally sourced produce. The fact that we can slaughter in our own abattoir adds to our ability to control traceability and quality and is no doubt paying off.
"Thank you to all involved at the event in The Curragh Racecourse last Sunday and of course a huge thank you to all of our loyal customers. Your support is very much appreciated and we will continue to ensure that we are providing quality meat for you and your families," said Morris Meats.
Organised and managed by the Associated Craft Butchers of Ireland, the National Irish Steak Challenge was broken down into three categories, fillet steak, ribeye steak and striploin steak.
The inaugural competition attracted butchers from throughout the Island of Ireland, who showcased passion and quality during the event.
The National Irish Steak Challenge provides Independent Irish Butchers with a vital opportunity to highlight their product quality, breed credentials and processing standards on a national platform.
Judging is impartial and was carried out by a panel of over 30 experts, including meat scientists, master butchers, industry professionals, and specialised chefs.
Notable figures on the judging panel included Sean Owens (IFEX Salon Culinaire Director), Darina Allen (Ballymaloe cookery school) and Joe Burke (Bord Bia).
