Best restaurants in Belfast: GastroGay's Patrick and Russell share their best places to eat in the city
Discover the best restaurants in Belfast with everything from poutine to pizza on offer in Northern Ireland’s foodie capital
Looking for the best restaurants, bars and cafés in Northern Ireland’s foodie capital? Patrick Hanlon and Russell Alford, aka GastroGays, the restaurant critics of the Sunday Times Ireland, share their their top recommendations alongside suggestions from Caroline Wilson, founder of Taste and Tour, Belfast’s premier food tour company. For more Ireland inspiration, discover the best Irish holidays. For more city dining guides, check out the best restaurants in Dublin, best restaurants in Cardiff, best restaurants in York and best restaurants in Liverpool. Jump to: Best places to eat and drink in Belfast 5 of the best Belfast pubs Where to stay in Belfast Best places to eat and drink in Belfast Neighbourhood – for an indulgent breakfast On Donegall Street, this handsome cafe styled like a plush sixties-bureau-meets-modern-Scandi-restaurant serves some of the best brunch dishes and coffee in the city. Don’t miss the croissant eggs benny or the seasonal French toast. neighbourhood.cafe Established – for coffee When Established opened the doors of its industrial-chic cafe in the Cathedral Quarter in late 2013 it sparked a revolution in Belfast’s coffee scene. Over a decade on it remains a beacon of quality and consistency, sourcing and roasting. Their food menu is also a massive draw, changing regularly with the seasons. Their bakes are similarly legendary, particularly the ‘pie and drip’ special, a slice of pie and a drip coffee for £7.50, available only on Sundays until sold out. established.coffee St George's Market – for a food market Saturday is the day the city’s historic Victorian covered market properly springs to life, packed with stallholders, street food traders and food and drink producers aplenty. Snack on dried dillisk/dulse and gulp oysters, try Young Buck blue cheese, pick up some Belfast Brew from Suki Tea and try Armagh apple juice, among other local delicacies. One floor up is the restaurant, Stock Kitchen and Bar, led by chef Danny Millar, where the menu sources a lot locally, including from the market below itself. This is also one of Belfast’s greatest breakfasts with a view — ask for a terrace table! @stgeorgesbelfast General Merchants – for brunch When General Merchants’ chef and co-owner Tim Fetherston first visited Australia, its brunch scene blew him away: “I fell in love with the coffee and café culture. Lots of fine-dining chefs were opening breakfast places. It was an epiphany.” That inspired the original east Belfast General Merchants on the Upper Newtownards Road and now the group boasts three further branches — Ormeau Road, Antrim Road and Stranmillis — plus a city centre hatch on Donegall Place. Its sunny all-day fusion breakfasts range from Mexican-inspired huevos rotos to Melbourne-style smashed avocado with Vegemite on Zac’s Bakehouse sourdough and hawker eggs, a Chinese chilli crisp scramble. Coffee is excellent with a rotating line-up of roasters, differing for espresso and drip. generalmerchants.co.uk Arcadia – for local produce A local institution, Arcadia deli first opened in 1933 and has been going strong ever since. It’s supportive of local producers so new produce hits its shelves first. Look out for Broighter Gold rapeseed oils, Abernethy butter (try the dulse and sea salt), Passion Preserved pickles (including spiced apple jelly and kasundi chutney), Corndale chorizo and Ispini charcuterie. arcadiadeli.co.uk mrDeanes – for a sleek bistro Legendary Belfast restaurateur Michael Deane has done it all, from casual dining to fine dining, burger and steak concepts to Michelin star success, not to mention most of Northern Ireland’s finest chefs having cut their teeth in his kitchens at one time or another, including Danni Barry and Alex Greene. In 2024, he totally restructured his mini empire around Howard Street, closed Michelin-starred EIPIC and reimagined the same space as a sleek bistro, bar and social called mrDeanes with a more accessible concept of classic dishes at a value price point, to which a Michelin Bib Gourmand followed almost immediately. michaeldeane.co.uk The Muddlers Club – for modern dining Deep within the Cathedral Quarter, The Muddlers Club bar and restaurant takes its name from a secret society that used to meet on the site 200 years ago. There’s nothing hush-hush about its operation now, though; sharp, modern food (think venison with parsley root, salt-baked beets and bitter cherry) served from an open kitchen. themuddlersclubbelfast.com Rattlebag – for cocktails Looking for the city’s best cocktails? Rattlebag at the Bullitt Hotel is an award-winning darkly lit, plush and intimate den serving keenly crafted sips from the classic to the experimental with lots of house-made tinctures, washes and oils. rattlebag.co.uk Coppi – for Italian food Located in St Anne’s Square in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, Coppi takes its inspiration from all regions of Italy, but when it comes to ingredients the kitchen looks to producers in Northern Ireland. “We work closely with local suppliers including award-winning farmer Peter Hannan – two of our signature dishes are Peter’s Tuscan spiced pork and fennel sausage cichetti and a steak florentine of salt-aged beef,” says Coppi’s Tony O’Neill. “The pasta we serve is freshly made daily in our production kitchen and the duck ragu, porcini mushroom ravioli and truffle has been on the menu from day one, along with our cichetti of feta fritters with truffled honey. I think there could be a riot if we tried to take them off the menu.” coppi.co.uk Flout – for pizza Fancy pizza? Ireland’s best Stateside-inspired slices are found at Flout! in east Belfast where Peter Thompson’s team sling a daily-changing line-up of slices, squares and rounds reflect the subtleties of US styles of pizza from deep dish and Detroit to New Haven and New York. flout.pizza Bodega Bagels – for bagels Find Brooklyn-inspired Bodega Bagels on Royal Avenue or Banana Block in east Belfast for freshly baked and filled bagels and popular boulder cookies. bodegabagels.co.uk Oui Poutine – for poutine Arguably Ireland’s best take on Canadian poutine comes from Oui Poutine which handily pitches beside The Big Fish statue on Donegall Quay Thursday to Saturday weekly from 12pm. ouipoutine.com 5 best Belfast pubs The Garrick A traditional Victorian boozer with wood-panelled walls and open fires, The Garrick has been one of Belfast’s best bars since 1870. You’ll find great session music and the city’s best champ, plus a range of local ales (try a Hilden’s Belfast Blonde or a MacIvors cider). thegarrickbar.com The Duke of York The Duke of York is found down the colourfully eclectic, umbrella-lined Commercial Court. Inside, get lost among the endless vintage beer and whiskey memorabilia pinned to every available surface (even the ceiling). thedukeofyorkbelfast.com The Crown The Crown is an institution, a grade A-listed gin palace dating back to the early 1800s on Great Victoria Street. The details really need to be experienced in person to be appreciated, this ‘liquor saloon’ is all mosaic tiles, brocade walls, carved woods, gold ceiling and stained glass windows. Try secure one of the coveted snugs for the best experience. nicholsonspubs.co.uk White’s Tavern To find Belfast’s oldest tavern, dating back to 1630, head up the skinny lane called Winecellar Entry to the original White’s Tavern which is like stepping a couple of hundred years. Expect hushed chatter, a roaring fire, a top Irish coffee and piping hot chowder with wheaten bread and butter. White’s also has a more contemporary beer hall, garden and store to the front but the tavern is where the real magic is. whitestavernbelfast.com The Sunflower The Sunflower is known generally as Belfast’s friendliest pub in contrast to its caged facade, a relic of the past which serves as a reminder of the social history of the city and The Troubles. Here you won’t find Guinness but a more eclectic and interesting array of craft brews and stout alternatives like Beamish on tap. sunflowerbelfast.com Where to stay in Belfast The Grand Central A large, luxury hotel in the heart of Belfast’s Linen Quarter. Expect panoramic views and Northern Ireland’s highest rooftop bar. There’s a definite dose of NYC swank about The Grand Central, from the uniformed top-hatted doormen to the huge, high-ceilinged glass and marble lobby. Despite the grandeur, however, there’s plenty of cosy Irish charm. Rooms are spacious, calm and luxuriously furnished with king-size King Koil Cloud beds, smart white linen, and thick, noise-cancelling carpets. The bathrooms are particularly swish with double sinks, freestanding baths, walk-in rainfall showers and toiletries by ESPA. The Seahorse restaurant on the first floor is an airy space, with floor-to-ceiling glass flooding it with light by day and the twinkle of city lights by night. The dinner menu is a celebration of Irish and European classics, with modern touches and delicate portions. The 23rd floor rooftop Observatory Bar is a must-visit, before or after dinner. With its own private lift, it’s become something of a destination for trendy Belfasters. But don’t mistake that for exclusivity; the welcome as you reach the top floor is still very warm. Each cocktail refers to a local landmark – try Napoleon’s Nose (a heady mix of mezcal, Benedictine, fig and orange bitters), or the more floral Botanical Garden, made from gin, rhubarb, aperol, pomegranate, pink peppercorn and citrus. Rooms start at £185 per night, check availability at booking.com More info: visitbelfast.com More UK restaurant guides Best restaurants in Deal Best restaurants in Birmingham Best restaurants in St Albans Best restaurants in Bristol Best restaurants in Edinburgh Best restaurants in York Best restaurants in Whitstable Best restaurants in Oxford Best restaurants in Cambridge Best restaurants in Margate Best restaurants in Manchester Best restaurants in the Lake District Best restaurants in Perthshire Words by Caroline Wilson, founder of the Belfast Food Tour and Director of Taste and Tour NI (tasteandtour.co.uk), Patrick Hanlon and Russell Alford Photographs by Leonid Andronov/Getty, David Cornder/Alamy stock photo and Elaine Hill Photography
Why I love Derry, Northern Ireland's foodie haven
From super fresh seafood and award-winning pork to local distilleries and cider, there's a wealth of great food to discover in Derry, Northern Ireland
Learn all about what makes the cuisine of Derry in Northern Ireland so special from Leigh Thurston, head chef of the Oak Room at Ebrington Hotel. From renowned oysters and pork to local cheesemakers and Irish whiskey distilleries, there is plenty for foodies to enjoy. Plus, we share some of the top places to eat on the island and our picks of the best places to stay. Want to learn more about regional cuisine? Check out our guides to the cuisines of Trentino in Italy, the Algarve in Portugal, Cork in Ireland or Istria in Croatia. 10 things to love about the food in Derry Award-winning pork Northern Irish pork is known for its quality and flavour. William Grant and Co in Derry has been producing and curing bacon, pork and ham since 1911 using traditional methods handed down over the years. It does many great award-winning products but one of the best things is the classic drycure bacon which we always have on the menu. We’re lucky to have it on the doorstep. Foyle Bia Mara oysters These sustainably grown oysters benefit from the waters of both the Atlantic Ocean and River Foyle’s freshwater tides to give them their own unique flavour. It’s a small family-run business – I visited a couple of weeks ago and it’s an incredible place. They are doing really hard work down there but the quality of their oysters is incredible. Local breweries We’re spoilt for choice here. We have Walled City Brewery, which is on the Ebrington side of the Peace Bridge – it does great stouts, the classic being an oyster stout using the left-over shells from local Lough Foyle oysters, and it also has a taproom where you can try all the brews. You have Northbound Brewery which does a great bottled pale ale. Rough Brothers microbrewery makes red ale, oatmeal stout and pale ales, Dopey Dick Brewing (named after a killer whale who lost his way and swam into Derry in 1977) is known for its bold, experimental flavours, and the brewery has its own sister pub, The Guildhall Taphouse, and there’s Lacada Brewery out in Portrush. Dart Mountain Cheese These are two great local cheesemakers, Kevin and Julie Hickey, based at the foot of Dart Mountain in the Sperrins. It’s a family production with all of the cheeses made in small batches. They have about six or seven cheeses now and have won lots of awards. You can go up and see the cheeses being made by Julie. They are so welcoming, they’ll take you through the whole process then do a tasting of their cheeses. My favourite is the Sperrin Blue – one of their many award winners. LegenDerry Food Festival It’s a really exciting time for food in Derry now with new restaurants and food businesses opening every week. The food scene is getting bigger and bigger, and we are lucky to have the LegenDerry Food Network which brings together, supports and promotes all of the local businesses, suppliers and producers. It really wants to showcase our food scene and encourage more people to visit. It organises a LegenDerry Food Festival every year, which aims to promote all of the great food and drink we have. Distilleries Obviously Irish whiskey is famous but we have some really exciting producers doing other spirits as well. You’ve got Wild Atlantic Distillery which makes a great award-winning gin and some really high-end beautiful whiskeys, and Earhart Gin, named after Amelia Earhart who had to make an emergency landing in Derry in 1932, and produced by Walled City Brewery. Niche Drinks makes St Brendan’s, which you won’t find outside Ireland but is a cream liqueur made in Derry. Check out our picks of the best Irish whiskey to buy, to find the perfect bottle for you. Traditional foods There’s still a lot of love for traditional flavours and we try to keep a few alive on the menu. We do a version of yellowman, which is a traditional Northern Irish treat. It’s a seaside rock-like candy, a harder version of cinder toffee. We make our own, then crumble that into ice cream and serve it with sticky toffee pudding – people love seeing it on the menu. There’s also boxty, traditional Irish potato pancakes made from grated potato and fried, usually served with a side of smoky bacon for breakfast. Greencastle fish We are blessed with a bounty of seafood in Derry. Just 20 miles down the road is the fishing port of Greencastle. They’ll land fish in the morning and we’ll have it by afternoon, so you’ll really get the freshest of the fresh. The langoustines are beautiful at the moment but you’ll also get lovely scallops, and lobsters will be coming in soon, too, so you really get a fantastic range. Broighter Gold rapeseed oil This is an award-winning rapeseed oil grown just outside Limavady and is another producer we use at the Oak Room. It’s a family business (like a lot of businesses around here) and the rapeseed oil is a great ingredient to cook and finish dishes with. It does a classic one then various flavoured oils, including a great smoked version. Redgate Cider This is made by Gordon Chambers, who planted a six-acre orchard with 180 varieties just outside the city in Lismacarol. He started making cider as a hobby but now produces this great craft cider which he supplies to loads of restaurants and bars in the city. We cook with it as well – I use it in a dish with local mussels and leeks. 5 places to eat and drink in Derry Artis by Phelim O’Hagan Artis is a beautifully calm and stylish space in Derry’s Craft Village with a menu offering refined modern Irish cooking. Chef Phelim’s dishes champion seasonality and local produce – choose from the à la carte or go for the full seven-course tasting menu which can be enjoyed with a thoughtful (and generous) wine pairing. Expect dishes such as roast cod with Killary Fjord mussels, and Gubbeen chorizo and fennel, and take advantage of the offer to match a cocktail to your dessert. artisatcraftvillagederry.com El Tapas Grá This is a relaxed spot bringing a taste of Spanish small plates to Derry’s buzzy Waterloo Place. The varied dishes include chorizo bon bons and pork belly roulade with black pudding crumb, with the robata grill bringing an authentic charcoal grilled flavour. If you can’t fit it in, get the excellent Basque cheesecake with cherries to go. eltapasgra.com Terra Bakehouse This is a bright, contemporary café-bakery offering superior pastries, cakes and bread. Guinness and cheddar sourdough, cardamom buns and perfectly laminated croissants are on offer to eat in or takeaway, and the brunch menu is concise but beautifully done – think smashed avocado toast with halloumi, pink pickled onions and poached eggs, or giant sourdough toasties with slow-cooked gammon and melted cheddar. Ideal for a leisurely morning coffee or grab-and-go treat. @terrabakeryderry Walled City Brewery A real gem inside Derry’s Ebrington Square, Walled City Brewery is equal parts restaurant and craft beer haven. The food menu champions Northern Irish produce – think slow-cooked meats, fresh fish and excellent vegetarian options – all designed to pair with the small-batch brews. The tasting paddles are fun for exploring the beer selection. It’s a laid-back, friendly place that balances great food with a community feel and creative drinks. walledcitybrewery.com Pyke ’n’ Pommes What started as a street food truck is now an institution. Pyke ’n’ Pommes serves fun, creative food packed with flavour from a converted Derry bus — from Korean fried chicken burgers to fish tacos and loaded fries. Ingredients are super fresh (the fish comes from next door fishmonger Moore on the Quay), portions are generous and the riverside setting adds to the charm, whether you’re grabbing a bite or sitting in. pykenpommes.ie Where to stay in Derry Bishop’s Gate Hotel This is a beautifully restored Edwardian building in the heart of Derry’s Cathedral Quarter, perfectly located to explore the Walled City. The boutique hotel’s history as a former gentlemen’s club (which once hosted Churchill and WB Yeats) is reflected in the décor with wood panelling, muted sage greens and rich plummy reds. Rooms are cosy and plush with rainfall showers and king-size beds. The Gown Restaurant serves hearty classics (there is a great steak selection) plus dishes with some international touches like duck tacos with apple and celeriac slaw, or miso Greencastle cod with noodles and pak choi. Breakfast is generous and, as well as a big continental buffet, there is an à la carte menu – go for a full Irish with local bacon, sausages and black pudding, or try the eggs florentine with a soda farl subbed in for the usual muffin. For a pre- or post-dinner drink, the adjoining Wig Bar serves local brews, such as Northbound 26 pale ale, and expertly crafted cocktails. bishopsgatehotelderry.com The Ebrington Hotel Opened in 2023 within the former site of the Ebrington Barracks, The Ebrington Hotel sits at the eastern end of the Peace Bridge. Rooms are airy, modern and luxurious, with brass fittings, soft muted colours and cosy woollen accessories. There is a small in-house spa, too, which produces its own toiletries, EB Botanicals, which are in all the bathrooms. At the Oak Room Restaurant chef Leigh Thurston offers refined cooking with a real emphasis on locally sourced ingredients (suppliers are showcased all through the menu) in dishes like Kilkeel lobster tortellini with charred leek and lobster sauce, and Coyagh Farm beef fillet with oxtail pie and sauce bordelaise. For a more relaxed setting, the Corner House Pub & Lounge offers great pub classics like fish and chips, and burgers, as well as handcrafted cocktails. theebringtonhotel.com More cuisine guides South Tyrol cuisine: 10 things we love Fez cuisine: 10 things we love Puglian cuisine: 10 things we love Andalusian cuisine: 10 things we love Jamaican cuisine: 10 things we love Georgian cuisine: 10 things we love Colombian cuisine: 10 things we love The Algarve's cuisine: 10 things we love Thai cuisine: 10 things we love South Korean cuisine: 10 things we love Nashville cuisine: 10 things we love Norwegian cuisine: 10 things we love Tuscan cuisine: 10 things we love Cork cuisine: 10 things we love Northern Ireland cuisine: 10 things we love Finland cuisine: 10 things we love
Why I love Northern Ireland, the home of famous whiskey and traditional icons
Stevie McCarry, head chef at Lir in Coleraine marina, reveals what makes Northern Irish food special, plus top activities and places to stay when visiting
For more travel inspiration, check out our guide to the best Irish holidays and the best Irish whiskeys to buy. For more cuisine guides, check out our guides to Athens cuisine, Austrian cuisine or Icelandic cuisine. Northern Ireland cuisine: 10 things we love Potato farls Potato farls are a beloved staple in Northern Ireland – a type of potato bread made from a simple mix of mashed potatoes and flour, cut into quarters (or "farls") and cooked until golden. Popular in Ulster, they’re a fry-up essential, often replacing toast or enjoyed with butter and jam at teatime and even paired with smoked fish for supper. Due to their versatility and familiarity they're the perfect base for experimenting with new ingredients as people are more open to trying something different when served with a comforting classic like a farl. Champ Another must-try Northern Irish classic is champ. This dish combines seasoned mashed potatoes with scallions (spring onions), milk, and a generous amount of butter for a silky-smooth side. It's great paired with meat or fish – but just as good enjoyed on its own. Locally sourced produce In Northern Ireland, diners are fortunate to have access to an abundance of incredible local produce. You can find artisanal bread from nearby bakehouses like Ursa Minor in Ballycastle, fresh vegetables from Rhee River Organics, and the coast teeming with foraging opportunities, from exquisite seaweed to a bounty of berries, nuts, seeds and mushrooms in nearby forests. This reliance on seasonality is a driving force, fostering a strong sense of community and resulting in beautifully cohesive menus as chefs have to adjust their dishes based on the local catch or produce in season. Therefore, it’s popular to have traditional dishes reimagined. For example, the classic sausage roll at Lir was transformed with fresh, locally sourced monkfish. Dulse Dulse is a red seaweed cherished in Northern Ireland. Foraged from the shoreline, it’s traditionally dried and enjoyed as a nutritious snack, often savoured by the handful. Soda farls Soda farls are known for their simplicity and comforting taste. This quick bread requires just a handful of ingredients: flour, salt, bicarbonate of soda and buttermilk. Cooked on a griddle or in an iron pan, soda farls emerge as beautifully dense and versatile. They pair brilliantly with hearty soups or can be spread with jam for a sweet treat. Soda farls embody the warmth of simple homemade cooking done right. Yellowman Yellowman is Northern Ireland’s unique take on honeycomb, boasting a bright, almost luminous yellow hue and a denser, chewier texture. This popular snack comes to life during the popular Ould Lammas Fair in Ballycastle, where it's a staple at local market stalls. Whiskey It's impossible to discuss Northern Ireland without acknowledging the significance of Bushmills whiskey, distilled since 1608. Many locals would argue that Bushmills needs no embellishment and is best enjoyed neat, without ice, allowing its rich flavours to shine. Whiskey cocktails remain popular, with bartenders creatively incorporating foraged berries from the Bushmills area to enhance their offerings. Additionally, County Antrim is experiencing a vibrant surge of micro-distilleries, reviving the region’s historical connection to poitín (or poteen), the traditional Irish moonshine. This new wave of distillers is now crafting commercially available poitín, which features prominently on Lir’s menu. The Irish margarita swaps tequila for poitín, showcasing the innovative spirit of Northern Ireland’s evolving drinks scene. Tayto Arguably the most incredible crisps you’ll ever taste, Tayto crisps have earned their place as a Northern Irish icon – and anyone who dares to claim otherwise might just find themselves in a friendly debate! They’re undoubtedly one of the best exports from the region, celebrated to the extent that there’s even a theme park dedicated to them. With their nostalgic crunch, Tayto crisps are often the top request from students who’ve moved away for university – a beloved taste of home that’s hard to resist. Creative fusions The greatest export from Northern Ireland is its people. Many locals venture abroad to explore the world or pursue their studies, and this global experience has significantly enriched Northern Ireland’s food scene. When they return, they bring diverse influences that blend seamlessly with traditional cooking. At Lir, chefs draw inspiration from street food worldwide, transforming local produce into innovative dishes like monkfish pad Thai and squid shawarma. The Holy Trinity Growing up in Ireland, we often refer to the ‘Holy Trinity’ of cooking: carrots, celery and onion. These three staples form the flavour foundation of countless dishes. Traditionally, Irish cuisine has focused more on sustenance than sophistication, with restaurant recommendations often revolving around the size of portions rather than the intricate flavours and complexities of the meals. However, this perspective is shifting, as contemporary chefs begin to elevate Irish cooking, celebrating both the ingredients and the artistry behind each dish. Where to eat and drink in Northern Ireland Spirit of the Bann Experience Indulge in a unique river whiskey-tasting experience that celebrates the exquisite flavours of the Causeway Coast. Enjoy iconic Bushmills whiskey alongside a sumptuous charcuterie board featuring award-winning local cheeses, artisanal sausages and rich Irish black butter. The Spirit of the Bann Experience takes place aboard the MV Kingfisher, crafted by the esteemed Harland and Wolff shipbuilders, against the backdrop of the area’s breathtaking natural beauty. Priced at £79.50, this unforgettable journey is offered by Causeway Coast Foodie Tours and promises to delight any foodie. causewaycoastfoodietours.com On the hoof Head to the family-run On The Hoof Barbecue in Northern Ireland for a taste of mouthwatering Texan-style marinated meats. Here, meats are expertly cooked over wood fire, ensuring they are so tender they practically fall off the bone. The culinary genius behind these delectable flavours is Fiona Chapman, who welcomes every guest with her infectious personality and a warm, family-style dining atmosphere. Expect generous portions and fresh salads, and don’t forget to wash it all down with a glass of Armagh County’s renowned cider, crafted from Bramley apples, for the perfect refreshing finish. onthehoofbbq.com Tayto factory Nestled in the heart of the Ulster countryside in Tandragee, the historic Tayto Castle – dating back 500 years – has been the home of Tayto crisps since 1956. Here you can immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Tayto with a guided tour of the modern, fully operational factory. Witness first-hand how locally grown potatoes transform into the beloved Tayto crisps. Follow the spuds' journey along the production line, through the flavouring station and into the iconic packets, with plenty of sampling opportunities along the way. Tours last approximately 90 minutes and are priced at £12.50 for adults and £8 for children. taytotours.com Blackwell House afternoon tea For a luxurious family experience, afternoon tea at Blackwell House is the perfect way to reconnect and indulge together. With five courses, no one will leave the table feeling hungry. Delight in a mouthwatering selection of meticulously crafted bite-sized pastries, including Bramley apple and carrot cake, dark chocolate ganache éclairs, apple cream tarts, candy-striped meringues, mint Aero cheesecake, and the renowned Blackwell shortbread. And just when you think your tastebuds can’t take any more, you’ll be tempted by a zesty lemon posset to cap off the experience. At £39 per person, this afternoon tea offers exceptional value and can accommodate large groups, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings. blackwellhouse.co.uk Bakehouse NI For an intimate and heartwarming cooking experience, Bakehouse NI is a must-visit. In the comfort of owner Bronagh’s cosy kitchen, you’ll learn to make traditional Irish dishes, from classic soda bread to homely "mammy’s dinners". Unlike other cookery schools, the approach at Bronagh’s skips the fuss over complex techniques and focuses on the sheer joy of cooking. Having learned at the side of her mother and grandmother, Bronagh's classes are infused with the warmth of family tradition. For something extra special, Bronagh also offers afternoon tea classes, perfect for hen parties and groups. After the lesson, you’ll get to savour your creations in a charmingly converted gypsy caravan – a wonderful way to end the day. bakehouseni.com Where to stay in Northern Ireland Killeavy castle Killeavy Castle Estate is the ultimate escape for those seeking luxury and serenity. This elegant estate combines history with modern indulgence and is set within 365 acres of lush woodland in the Slieve Gullion foothills. The restored castle oozes charm, while the farm-to-fork menu champions fresh, local produce. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and reset in style. Doubles from £230. Check availability at killeavycastle.com The Bushmills Inn The Bushmills Inn is a charming and historic place to stay in the heart of Northern Ireland's Causeway Coast. It blends old-world charm with modern luxury, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy beautifully furnished rooms with original features like open fireplaces. The inn is just a short distance from popular attractions such as the Giant’s Causeway and Bushmills Distillery, making it an ideal base for exploring the area's rich heritage and stunning landscapes. Renowned for its excellent dining, the inn's restaurant serves locally sourced seasonal produce, creating a delightful culinary experience. Doubles from £260. Check availability at bushmillsinn.com If you're travelling to Ireland and want further help planning your trip, check out more information from Ireland.com More cuisine guides Fez cuisine: 10 things we love Puglian cuisine: 10 things we love Andalusian cuisine: 10 things we love Jamaican cuisine: 10 things we love Georgian cuisine: 10 things we love Colombian cuisine: 10 things we love The Algarve's cuisine: 10 things we love The Isle of Skye cuisine: 10 things we love South Korean cuisine: 10 things we love Nashville cuisine: 10 things we love Norwegian cuisine: 10 things we love Tuscan cuisine: 10 things we love Cork cuisine: 10 things we love Isle of Skye cuisine: 10 things we love Finland cuisine: 10 things we love
Foodie road trip along the Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland
Explore Northern Ireland’s impressive Causeway Coast via steaming bowls of mussels with white wine, cabrito goat meat burgers and fluffy friands
The Causeway Coast stretches around the top of Northern Ireland from Belfast in the east to Derry/Londonderry in the west. Along its 120-mile reach it takes in some of the country’s biggest tourist attractions (including the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and the Glens of Antrim) as well as golden beaches, rugged cliffs, fishing villages and castles. Tear your eyes away from the views, however, and you’ll also discover craft breweries, third-wave coffee joints and street-food pop-ups on one of Ireland’s best foodie road trips. Now discover the best Irish holidays. The Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills Fondly dubbed the “eighth natural wonder of the world” by loyal locals, this ancient rock formation is composed of a series of interlocking basalt columns rising from the sea. It’s the most popular tourist attraction in Northern Ireland, and the guided audio tour (which mixes legend with fact) and visitor exhibition are well worth exploring. The Giant’s Causeway also makes a perfect Instagram shot but be careful on those slippery rocks! nationaltrust.org.uk/giants-causeway Maegden, Bushmills Just outside the town of Bushmills, literally steps away from the Giant’s Causeway, Maegden is a cute 1950s caravan that, for our money, serves the best grilled cheese sandwiches on the island. The mix of local sourdough, regional farmhouse cheeses and charcuterie, homemade pickles and cleverly sourced extras (think truffled mushrooms, honeyed walnuts and red onion confit) is magic. It also serves a killer Bonfire Hot Chocolate (with extra salted caramel and marshmallow fluff) and cookie sandwiches filled with Draynes Farm ice cream. Maegden’s season runs from March to October and it’s usually open from around 11am until 5pm (every day except Tuesday). There are a couple of benches nearby if you want to take your time. cheesemaegden.com Ursa Minor, Ballycastle Bread, pastries and cakes are fabulously fresh at Ursa Minor, in Ballycastle. Owned by a local husband-and-wife duo, this bakery is all about respecting traditional methods, baking by hand and producing small-batch viennoisserie. The couple added a cafe to their set-up three years ago, and it's become a popular pit-stop on any given afternoon. Stop by for tea and one of their legendary buttery croissants, fluffy friands or the pear and almond Danish. Or go for the weekly-changing lunch menu, which offers a tempting line-up of sandwiches and bowls made with local produce. ursaminorbakehouse.com Ocho Tapas, Portrush Run by head chef Trudy Brolly and her husband, Sean, this Iberian-inspired tapas restaurant, in the pretty town of Portrush, is serendipitously located on the same street where the pair grew up. Though Spanish in menu and interior, 80-90% of the dishes at Ocho Tapas use local produce, with some necessary spices and ingredients sourced direct from Spain. Unfussy yet elegantly plated, the seafood dishes are the best shout, given the restaurant’s close proximity to the coast. Try Strangford Lough mussels in a white wine and garlic cream sauce, or hot-smoked trout from nearby Northcoast Smokehouse, served with saffron mayonnaise and manzanilla sherry. There are plenty of innovative vegetarian options, too – try roast padron peppers, local goats’ cheese croquettes with beetroot panna cotta and cherry sour cream, or fried aubergine with butterscotch miso and figs with truffled balsamic. Sean’s wine list (especially the six Spanish house wines) is also worth diving into while you’re there. ochotapas.com Blackrock House, Dhu Varren Blackrock House is one of the best B&Bs in Northern Ireland. It’s set near the railway halt of Dhu Varren, overlooking the town of Portrush, with clear views of the Giant’s Causeway and West Bay. Inside, it’s plush, pretty and tranquil, with four bedrooms that take inspiration from the seaside – think natural ‘beachy’ colours and elegant arrangements of pebbles and driftwood. There are also three guest lounges to relax in (with prime wave-watching seats) and an excellent breakfast cooked to order from a menu that really shouts about local produce. Don’t miss owner Nicola’s homemade Guinness soda bread. blackrockbandbportrush.com Harry’s Shack, Portstewart This may be, literally, a shack on a beach but Harry’s Shack is also one of the best spots in Northern Ireland for seafood. Set on The National Trust’s Portstewart Strand, the shack is literally seconds from where the local boats land fish. Soak up glorious sea views while you tuck into steaming bowls of Mulroy Bay mussels with white wine and ham hock, chunks of fresh, battered fish, or a speciality of whole fish on-the-bone (such as lemon sole or plaice) served with capers, cauliflower, mussels, puffed wild rice and baby boiled potatoes. An imaginative drinks list champions local brews and expertly matches grape to fish. Try a pint of the shack’s own Shacked Beach pale ale, made in association with Lacada Brewery in Portrush. facebook.com/harrysshack Pyke ’n’ Pommes, Derry/Londonderry Derry/Londonderry deserves far more attention than it gets, not least from food-minded visitors. Explore Derry City Walls and the resplendent Guildhall, then grab a beer and a bowl of sticky ribs at the Walled City Brewery, homemade scones at Primrose on the Quay or a pint and live music at The Blackbird. Best of all, though, is Pyke ’n’ Pommes. A pop-up turned permanent restaurant with two sites in the city – a converted bus and shipping container by the quayside and a more traditional dining space on Strand Road – it does a brisk trade in burgers. Try the 'Vegenderry – a brioche version stacked with a chickpea and corn spiced patty, crispy slaw, pickled onion, lime mayo and coriander. pykenpommes.ie Broughgammon Farm, Ballycastle Set just outside the coastal town of Ballycastle, Broughgammon Farm is a family-run farm that specialises in cabrito goat meat (kid goat meat). While still a working farm, the Cole family open up the farm shop and café to visitors on Fridays and Saturday afternoons (head to the café for a Billy Burger – it’s served in a floury bap with Broughgammon polytunnel pickles, tzatziki, sweet chilli, cheese and salad, with a side of rosemary-sprinkled wedges). The farm also hosts events, farm-to-fork guided tours and butchery classes. broughgammon.com Babushka, Portrush For coffee, there are few better spots along this beautiful coastal drive than Babushka, in Portrush. Located right on the town’s pier, in a beautifully converted old boathouse, George Nelson’s café is a shrine to great coffee. Guest beans feature but the café mostly uses those sourced from Swedish roastery Koppi, in Helsingborg, having discovered the company and admired its considered approach to coffee. There are sweet treats to try (look out for a special of carrot pancakes with lemon ricotta and blueberry compote), and a small savoury menu at breakfast and lunch. Expand your coffee horizons by ordering whichever barista filter choice is available on the day (those in the know ask for off-menu guest beans to brew in a V60; if there are some available the team will happily supply them). babushkakitchencafe.co.uk Ramore, Portrush One brand name is synonymous with eating out around this coastline, and that’s Ramore. A family-owned operation with no fewer than seven different locations across the small town of Portrush, the business offers everything from a wine bar to a no-frills casual Spanish tapas place. Best of all is The Harbour Bar, a historic pub in two parts – head downstairs to the tiny front room for a pint of the black stuff and a desperate jostle for space, or step upstairs to choose from a globe-trotting gin menu (including a dozen Irish gins – look out for Shortcross Gin from the Rademon Estate, Jawbox Gin from the Ards Peninsula or Copeland Gin, distilled in an old cinema in Donaghadee, on the outskirts of Belfast) and live music. ramorerestaurant.com Words by Patrick Hanlon and Russell Alford Images by Patrick Hanlon and Russell Alford and Carlo Morucchio/REDA&CO/Universal Images Group via Getty Images The GastroGays are an Irish blogging duo who write about food and travel and create their own recipes. Follow them on social media @GastroGays or listen to their podcast, Chew The Fat.