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Victoria Talbot's Inspiring Culinary Journey
A new culinary experience has recently opened its doors in Lurgan, and it’s catching the attention of food lovers both close to home and afar. Jireh – Filipino Asian Cuisine and Café, owned by Victoria Talbot, debuted in December 2024 on Market Street, sparking excitement throughout the community.
Victoria, a Filipino native, moved to Northern Ireland in 1997 and devoted much of her life to her nursing career. She stated, “I’ve been a nurse since 1999, working in the Craigavon Area Hospital’s Orthopaedic and Surgical Ward for 25 years.” Despite the fulfillment she found in her healthcare profession, her dream was always to own a restaurant. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. The idea of creating a space where people can come together and enjoy good food really inspires me,” she expressed with warmth.
Her culinary ambitions began to materialize when she enrolled in the Go Succeed programme in July 2024, where her business aspirations found support. Victoria recalled, “The support I received was invaluable. They helped me with everything from writing a business plan to navigating the legal aspects of opening a restaurant.”
Community Connections and Culinary Collaboration
During her journey, a serendipitous encounter at a Filipino Community Church service in Portadown led her to meet two talented chefs who shared her passion. Their connection became pivotal in bringing her vision to life as they discussed their culinary experiences and ambitions.
After months of hard work, in September 2024, she took the keys to her new establishment, intentionally crafting a warm atmosphere for her guests. Victoria's all-encompassing role at Jireh includes being the owner and front-of-house manager. “It’s a lot of work, but I love it. I want to ensure that every guest feels welcomed and has a great experience,” she shared joyfully.
Creating a Welcoming Culinary Space
Jireh boasts the capacity to accommodate up to 100 guests, making it an ideal venue for gatherings and celebrations. Victoria recognizes the importance of introducing her community to Filipino flavors, which is why she organized a tantalizing ‘All You Can Eat’ event on March 1st, featuring ten distinct styles of Filipino and Asian cuisine.
When announcing the event, Victoria exclaimed, “It’s a fantastic opportunity for people to taste a variety of dishes. We want to showcase the flavors of our menu.” The response to the event has been overwhelming, with nearly all slots selling out immediately. “I was amazed when two of the three sittings sold out almost immediately,” she recalled.
Celebrating Filipino Culture in Lurgan
Victoria’s passion for food and community shines brightly. “The local support has been incredible. I feel so grateful to be able to share my culture and cuisine with the people of Lurgan,” she stated, noting how meaningful it is for her to provide an authentic taste of her heritage.
With her story, Victoria Talbot embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship and dedication to cultural exchange, serving as a beacon of inspiration for anyone looking to embrace their dreams.
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