visit belfast eat and drink vouchers

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40 plus fantastic places to eat using the belfast restaurant voucher.

Gift-giving got tastier when Visit Belfast introduced the Belfast Restaurant gift voucher a few years ago.

The delicious voucher enables you to purchase your gifts from £10 upwards, and they can be redeemed at 60 of Belfast’s top eateries including anything from Michelin Star fine dining and quirky restaurants, to gastro pubs and cafes

The gift vouchers, on sale exclusively at the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre and online, provide the ideal gift for a range of occasions such as birthdays or anniversaries, corporate gifts or incentives for work colleagues.

Where to Buy

Eat & Drink Belfast Restaurant Vouchers are available to purchase in person from the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre (9 Donegall Square North, opposite Belfast City Hall) and also online . Belfast Restaurant Vouchers purchased online are sent by signed for delivery. Please allow 2-5 working days for delivery.

Participating Restaurants

• Deanes Deli Vin Cafe
• Deanes Meat Locker
• TGI Fridays
• Flame Restaurant
• Clandeboye Lodge Hotel
• Home Restaurant  
• Belfast Castle
• Granny Annies
• House Of Zen  
• Culloden Hotel
• Fitzwilliam Hotel Restaurant
• Malmaison Belfast
• Ryan’s Bar & Restaurant  
• Sweet Afton Bar & Kitchen
• Ten Square Hotel
• Salty Dog Hotel & Bistro
• Horatio Todd’s
• Mumbai Milano
• Cafe Parisian
• Robinsons Bar
• Cutters Wharf
• Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort
• 44 Hill Street
• Novelli at City Quays
• Maldron Hotel
• Crowne Plaza
• The Lamppost Cafe
• Shed Bistro
• Mourne Seafood Bar
• Titanic Hotel Belfast
• Villa Italia
• Holohan’s Pantry 
• Strangford Arms Hotel
• Deanes Loves Fish
• Errigle Inn
• Northern Whig
• SHU restaurant
• Morning Star
• Muddlers Club
• Havana Bank Sq
• Howard Street Restaurant  
• House Belfast
• Crumlin Road Gaol
• Bullitt Hotel
• Cookery School at James St
• Deanes Eipic
• Clayton Hotel Belfast
• SQ bar & grill
• The Boathouse
• Copperplate at the Hatfield House
• Hatfield House
• Malone House

I have 2 50 pound vouchers to use .does house of zen accept these visit belfast vouchers

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Give your taste buds a treat with the Belfast restaurant voucher, exclusively available to purchase from the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre.

The voucher makes the perfect gift for family, friends and corporate occasions. With a mouth-watering selection of eateries to pick from, diners will be spoilt for choice. Vouchers can be purchased in denominations of £10. Call into the  Visit Belfast Welcome Centre  (9 Donegall Square North, opposite Belfast City Hall) to buy or to find out more.  Telephone 028 9024 6609 for more information.

Belfast Restaurant Vouchers can be used at:

• Barking Dog
• Bennetts on Belmont
• Bistro Este
• Canteen at the MAC
• Coq & Bull Brasserie, Clandeboye Lodge
• Cutters Wharf
• Days Hotel Belfast Restaurant
• Filini, Radisson Blu
• Flame Restaurant
• Fountain Bar & Restaurant
• Havana Bank Sq
• Horatio Todd’s
• House of Zen
• Howard Street
• James Street South
• Knife & Fork, Malone Lodge
• Madison’s Hotel
• Malt Room Bar & Restaurant
• McHugh’s Bar & Restaurant
• Molly’s Yard
• Mourne Seafood Bar
• RBG, Park Inn
• Remedy Cafe Bar
• Robinson and Cleaver
• Rockmount Golf Club
• Salty Dog Hotel & Bistro
• Shed Bistro
• SHU Restaurant
• Spice, Ramada Plaza
• Suburbia Bar & Lounge, Ramada Plaza
• The Apartment
• The Bar & Grill at James Street South
• The Errigle
• The Green Room, Ramada Plaza
• The Grill Room & Bar
• The John Hewitt
• The Kings Head
• The Morning Star
• The Northern Whig
• The Potted Hen
• Treat Boutique
• Ye Olde Elk Inn
• restaurants

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You are here: Home > Destinations > Belfast > Food & Drink in Belfast

Where to eat and drink in Belfast

Belfast has enjoyed a renaissance in the brewing and culinary arts in recent years. A steady stream of new home-grown chefs, returning talent and foreign mavericks have given Northern Ireland’s capital city a new lease of food and drink life. 

Belfast sits right on the doorstep to some of the most desirable farmland on these islands. It’s the perfect marriage. Take fresh ingredients from right outside your door, mix it with a good dose of daring and imagination and hey presto, you’ve got yourself a food and drink paradise that rivals the very best. 

Aim for the stars at OX

OX is one of the top restaurants in Belfast. It sits right on the River Lagan and since opening in 2013, has been making all the right waves. Run by one local chef, the other French, OX is committed to using fresh local ingredients and serving up taste sensations in unpretentious surroundings. It does exactly that and for a Michelin starred restaurant, it manages to remain quite reasonable. 

One restaurant and bar after another in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter

Just a couple of blocks from here you’ll come across Belfast’s famed Cathedral Quarter. This part of town is funky, fresh and forward-looking and there is really a whole host of restaurants to choose from – some of them among the best restaurants in Belfast.

The Muddlers Club is a favourite with locals. You’ll find it hiding (somewhat loudly) in a graffitied alleyway between Waring Street & Exchange Place. The owners named the place after a secret society that met there over two centuries ago. Today there are no secrets; everything is cooked and prepared in front of you in a lively open kitchen. 

Within shouting distance is well-known locale, The Harp bar. Decorated in red velvet fabrics and adorned with antique furnishings, this place harks back to the decor of Victorian Belfast. The clientele are far from that Victorian past, however, though you could argue that some of the beards are similar. Independent draught beers and a great selection of whiskies and regular live music make this a popular spot.

Nearby, Muriel’s Cafe Bar does a smashing fish and chips for lunch and its gastropub offering might well see you right for the day, particularly if you start getting stuck into their tasty cocktails.

Just five minutes away is the Sunflower Bar . This is among the hippest bars in Belfast and they do like to see the world differently. Before entering, you’re politely requested to refrain from topless bathing. You might be tempted, however, because the Sunflower’s famous beer garden is south facing and with decor pitched somewhere between Honolulu and Hamburg, it is very easy to relax here. Oh, and they also do wood-fired pizza!

About one mile south of Sunflower is an Asian fusion restaurant that always brings a smile to Belfast faces. Since 2016, Yugo, meaning fusion in Japanese, has been serving quick, tasty, great value meals in a setting that reimagines IKEA as a Japanese rather than Swedish furniture store. It works.

Meat, liquor and more in Belfast’s marvelous market

Not far from here is the wonderful St George’s Market . This red brick wonder plays host to over three-hundred food stalls and is a great place to come for breakfast or lunch. The atmosphere is second to none. Yes, it’s busy, but it’s busy with a lot of time on its hands and will love you if you love it. And everyone loves it. 

Up and coming Ormeau

If you manage to actually get out of the market, take a stroll down south across the River Lagan to the Ormeau Road. You’ll find cracking food options here.

Not least is General Merchant’s. Run by an Aussie who came to Ireland to show us how to cook a proper brunch, he is doing a fine job of keeping us fed. If you’re sticking around for lunch, why not visit Jay Rayner’s favourite Belfast spot Bia Rebel? 'Bia’, pronounced ‘be-a’ is the Irish for food, and what glorious food this is. The philosophy behind their famous ramen is to fuse the food cultures of two island nations to create a delicious, addictive bowl of savoury goodness. And boy does it hit the spot.

All this walking around and eating make a person thirsty so why not head back over the river and not far from the famous Queen’s University, you’ll discover the recently opened Jeggy Nettle. This is a dog-friendly pub with quizzes, Tayto crisp sandwiches, great pints and an open fire. What more could you want on an early evening out?

Last but never least, the most famous bar in Belfast (or even the world?)

No visit to Belfast would be complete without a visit to The Crown Bar . This is probably the most famous bar in Belfast. On the go as a gin palace since the nineteenth century, it is as deliciously decorated inside as it is outside. If you manage to get in and grab one of the ten available snugs then you might well be set for the night. 

No matter where you go, however, you’ll find warm welcomes, good food and plenty of local banter in Belfast. 

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure information is correct, we strongly advise checking in advance before you travel to your intended destination to ensure its open and book tickets if applicable. 

• Food & Drink
• Dogs accepted by arrangement
• Dogs Welcome Inside
• Dogs Accepted Inside
• Gym On Premises
• Free (parking charges may apply)
• Car parking
• Off site parking
• On site parking
• Parking (charge)
• Parking (free)
• Restaurant on Premises
• Restaurant on site
• Indoor pool
• Outdoor pool
• Swimming Pool On Premises
• Wi-fi available

Refine Your Search Further:

Number of results: 78

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Trading since 1867 The Botanic Inn, which is more affectionately known as ‘The Bot’, is a Belfast institution. One of the city's top destinations for anyone seeking great food, quality drinks, a lively night out & big screen sports.

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Noble is a bustling neighbourhood restaurant in the heart of Holywood, County Down. Featuring a changing, seasonal menu and an evolving, exciting wine list. The menu features an array of well-priced dishes that highlight fresh, locally sourced…

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Katy's Bar is at the hub of Belfast's most exciting music venue. In 2012 along with the whole complex the always welcoming Katy's Bar enjoyed a simple, subtle refurb. This was followed by The Rock Garden, a brand new roof terrace.

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Pub / Nightclub

Established as one of the most famous venues for live music in the country, The Limelight Complex has recently enjoyed a multi-million pound refurbishment. The venue, now encompasses The Limelight & Limelight 2 venues, as well as Katy's Bar.

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This specialist cocktail bar is bright, stylish and chic, with the square bar on the central floor being the focal point.

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The restored stables of College Green House off Botanic Avenue are now home to Molly’s Yard restaurant. The site of Belfast’s first (and Ireland’s smallest) micro-brewery.

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The Beechlawn House Hotel is ideally situated in the suburb of Dunmurry, less than a ten minute drive from Belfast and Lisburn city centres. A busy eatery with a great reputation for freshly prepared traditional and modern cuisine. 5* FSA Rating.

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Fratelli Ristorante, Pizzeria & Bar oozes rustic Italian charm with a contemporary edge. Fratelli welcome guests into a family friendly, informal environment where the focus is on simple yet quality cookery and a warm welcome

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Oozing rustic charm and ‘Home of Live Music’ – Traditional & Modern. Located 5 minutes walk from Belfast City Hall, Granny Annies is the perfect venue for your Gastro dining experience, our menus include some of Granny’s favourites.

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The restaurant serves a wide variety of traditional and modern dishes offering the best local produce in an exquisite setting at an affordable price.

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The Cloth Ear is The Merchant Hotel's comfortable public bar. The warm and welcoming interior provides the ideal environment to relax and enjoy yourself in style. Combining both modern and traditional design features with a healthy dose of eccentric!

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Sunflower is a simple corner pub, it is free of gimmicks or themes, and it is one of the few remaining. It is instantly recognisable by the security cage on its front door, a relic from 1980s Belfast. Music is very much part of the pub's life.

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The Dark Horse is a European style coffee house nestled along a narrow cobbled alleyway in the historic Half Bap area of the Cathedral Quarter. Available for private hire Thursday - Saturday.

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The food at Home is vibrant and bold yet familiar and comforting making customers happy. Made fresh every day, free from preservatives and colourings, they always try to source their foods locally from Northern Ireland serving feel-good food using…

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Hidden within the Cathedral Quarter is this little gem of a bar. We pride ourselves in offering the most intimate atmosphere along with an outstanding selection of Rum. Join us and sip on our famous Dark n Stormy or Extraordinary! Not to be missed!

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The Great Room Restaurant offers a sumptuous space evoking timeless grandeur. A fitting setting for gastronomic delights inspired by the classics. One can taste the subtle flavours of each component, each element complementing one another perfectly.

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A converted church in the heart of Belfast, boasting the city's most diverse offering of entertainment. Regular gigs include the Comedy Club, Blues Club and Supper Club.

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Laverys Bar has long been a favoured drinks emporium for more seasoned individuals, a place to meet, eat, drink, converse and have almighty craic with the punters and staff.

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Novelli at City Quays is a stylish Mediterranean and French influenced brasserie open all day offering lunch and afternoon tea through to dinner, a great place for after work cocktails and tapas at our bar.

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McHughs is within a grade A listed building, built between 1710 and 1720, making it officially the oldest building in the city of Belfast, enjoying a long history and a sometimes colourful reputation.

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Experience ‘The Flavour of Belfast’ as Visit Belfast Unveil Voucher Scheme

Providing the perfect last minute Christmas gift, Visit Belfast has joined with partners from across the city’s hospitality sector for a unique voucher scheme offering ‘the flavour of Belfast’

Providing the perfect last minute Christmas gift, Visit Belfast has joined with partners from across the city’s hospitality sector for a unique voucher scheme offering ‘the flavour of Belfast’ from more than 65 participating businesses including Michelin Star restaurants, quirky eateries, gastro pubs, cafes, take aways, cookery school experiences and everything in between.

Stephanie Swail, right, Visit Belfast, joined with Noelle Kennedy, Diageo and Guillaume Rabillat, 44 Hill Street Restaurant to launch the initiative for this year’s festive season.

 More than £1.4 million worth of Visit Belfast Food and Drink Vouchers have been sold since they were first introduced in 2014.

The vouchers are available from Visit Belfast, Donegall Square North or online at  visitbelfast.com

14 June 2024

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Eat and Drink

Whether it’s fine dining, authentic, local dishes or enjoying a cocktail in a rooftop bar, Belfast’s food and drink scene is thriving.

A variety of dining experiences

Within our compact city centre, Belfast boasts an incredible range of places to eat and drink. From Michelin Star and award-winning restaurants to St. George’s Market and artisan cafes - bite into Belfast for a taste sensation.

A Michelin star restaurant with an enthusiastic approach to seasonality. Imagination and creativity are at the heart of every dish.

Observatory

The jewel in Grand Central Hotel, the Observatory is Ireland’s tallest bar serving spectacular views of Belfast with every sip.

Since opening its doors, James St has remained one of Belfast’s best places to dine, tasting great local produce.

The Duke of York

The Duke of York is a Belfast institution with memorabilia and photos adorning the walls in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter.

Both chic and comfortable, Parisien overlooks Belfast City Hall and offers afternoon tea, lunch, or dinner.

Deanes Meat Locker

Situated in a cosmopolitan area of the city, Deanes Meat Locker offers a range of culinary delights with meat from local farms.

This popular restaurant takes an Asian fusion approach to traditional Japanese and Chinese cooking.

Mourne Seafood Bar

Located next door to the iconic Kelly Cellar’s pub, Mourne Seafood Bar serves fresh seafood from local Irish ports.

2Taps Winebar

This family-owned tapas bar is in the heart of the city and offers Spanish and European-inspired tapas dishes for you to enjoy.

Belfast’s first Cicchetti bacari and restaurant, Coppi offers a taste of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.

Granny Annies

Located minutes from ICC Belfast, Granny Annies offers great Northern Irish food and great Belfast craic!

Plant-based ingredients paired with a creative Asian fusion, Jumon serves excellent food in the heart of Belfast.

Flame Restaurant

Prepare yourself for a unique dining experience and take in the sights and smells of great Northern Irish Cuisine.

Bar + Block Steakhouse

Bar + Block Steakhouse Belfast is situated in the vibrant Cathedral Quarter and serves hand-cut steaks and delicious cocktails.

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19 Best Restaurants in Belfast (2024 Edition)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

This guide to the best restaurants Belfast has to offer only contains places that the Irish Road Trip Team have visited 3+ times and that we have found to be consistently excellent .

It contains everything from dive-diners cooking up exceptional fish and chips to some of the many Michelin star restaurants in Belfast.

So, regardless of whether you’re hankering for some tantalising tapas , an adventurous seafood surprise or Belfast’s best steak , you’ll find something to whet your appetite below. Enjoy!

Table of Contents

The best restaurants in Belfast

This guide is packed with a mix of new and old Belfast restaurants that consistently delight diners, and it’s updated frequently. 

Below, you’ll find everywhere from EDO and The Ginger Bistro to some of the most unique places to eat in Belfast City Centre.

1. Darcy’s Belfast

Photos via Darcy’s Belfast on FB

Located on Bradbury Place, Darcy’s is, in our opinion, the best restaurant in Belfast City Centre . This is a family-run spot that crafts delicious, traditional dishes with locally sourced ingredients. 

Delighting locals and tourists alike for 20+ years, Darcy’s boasts top-notch service, a cosy interior and walls dotted with nods to local talent, like George Best.

For starters, you’ve the option of signature mussels (with herb and garlic cream sauce), seafood chowder, chicken wings and veggie spring rolls.

There’s then the main menu, the highlight of which is hard to pick – it’s a toss-up between the honey roast ham (with mash, seasonal veggies and cider parsley sauce) and the whole tail scampi (with chips and tartar sauce).

Why we keep going back: Darcy’s has a homely feel to it. Combine that with great service and beautifully prepared food and you’ve a winning combination

2. The Ginger Bistro

Photos via The Ginger Bistro on FB

There are few places to eat in Belfast with a reputation as fine as Ginger Bistro on Great Victoria Street (near Belfast Opera House ).

Once voted the best restaurant in Northern Ireland, Ginger Bistro has been running since 2000 and it boasts an adventurous menu and impeccable service.

For starters , expect the likes of Gin Cured Salmon with Celeriac Remoulade and Rare Beef Salad. On the mains , there’s Crispy Oriental Duck Leg, Spiced Roast Cauliflower with Hummus and a Slow Cooked Featherblade of Beef.

Throw in excellent service, cosy surroundings and a carefully managed supply chain and you’ll quickly realise why this is widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in Belfast.

Solid value-for-money: This is one of several Belfast restaurants where you feel like you’re getting good bang-for-your-buck, with 3 Courses for a reasonable £39.75 (price may change)

3. Holohan’s Pantry

Photos via Holohan’s Pantry on FB

With a beautifully appointed interior and an attention to detail that you’ll notice from the moment you arrive, there’s a lot to like about Holohan’s Pantry on University Road.

This place showcases the very best of Irish cuisine through a finely curated, and very well priced, menu. Personally, I’ve only ever been here for the pre-theatre menu, that comes in, at the time of typing, at a very reasonable £20 for two courses .

On the menu, expect hearty fare, like Holohan’s Fish & Chips (with mushy peas, caper and lemon mayonnaise) and some delicious Fermanagh Boxty Dumplings (with roast pumpkin, beatroot, chesnuts and fried sage).

On Sunday’s (see our guide to Sunday lunch in Belfast ), you’ll find roast, pan seared trout, boxty, a trio of pork and plenty more. A peach of a restaurant.

Live trad music: Don’t fancy nipping into one of the pubs in Belfast for live music? You’re in luck. There’s live trad here on Tuesdays and Thursdays!

4. EDO Restaurant

Photos via EDO Restaurant on FB

Our next spot, Upper Queen Street’s EDO , is a recent awardee of the Michelin Guide’s “Bib Gourmand” , which recognises places that serve great food at moderate prices.

Edo is a modern Spanish tapas restaurant that treats diners to top-notch service, small, flavour-laden plates and a vibrant setting.

There’s a flexible sharing menu on offer along with a carefully picked wine list (and some lip-smackingly-good cocktails!).

The menu highlights , in my opinion, are the Braised Beef Cheek (with smoked cheese and beef crumb), the Langoustine Croquette and the Strangford Mussels (with garlic, Sauvignon Blanc  and sourdough).

Book ahead: As this is one of the more popular Belfast restaurants, it’s  well worth  booking Edo in advance

5. Tribal Burger

Photos via Tribal Burger on FB

So, the first 4 places in our guide to the best restaurants in Belfast were all fairly fancy spots. Our next spot, Tribal Burger , is anything but… but by God it’s good !

With two locations (Botanic Avenue and Callendar Street), Tribal Burger is arguably Belfast’s best burger .

Here you’ll find homemade gourmet patties, fresh-cut chips, crispy chicken wings and rich shakes.

If you’re partial to vegan food, there’s a banging black bean and chickpea burger along with a tasty bhaji burger, too!

Don’t miss the ‘bites’: There are pork belly bites (with soy and ginger) halloumi fries and brilliant bhaji bites

6. James St

Photos via James St on FB

James St is another spot that’s regularly listed as one of the best restaurants in Belfast, and for good reason – the food here is sensational !

There are several menus here , but I’ve only ever eaten from the à la carte which, while reassuringly small, has plenty of delicious dishes to consider.

For starters, there’s everything from crab and chilli linguini and crispy squid (with black garlic mayo) to house ricotta and more.

On the mains, there’s tomahawk steaks, potato and parm gnocchi , duck and fish options. For dessert, the Sticky Toffee Sundae and the Braeburn Apple Tarte steal the show.

The set menus are good value: There are 2 courses £26.50 and 3 courses £29.50 (prices may change)

Photos via Zen on FB

You’ll find Zen on Adelaide Street where a dimly lit and glamorous interior collides with a lively buzz to deliver a dining experience that you’re unlikely to forget.

At Zen, you’ll find authentic Asian cuisine, ‘flamboyant entertainment’ and fancy cocktails and traditional Chinese beers.

There’s a huge menu on-the-go – there’s mains (like deep fried monkfish tails or the pan-friend rib eye steak rolls), Teppanyaki and set meals ( 3 courses for £29.99 p/p ).

There’s also endless starters (the sesame prawn toast is top-notch), sashimi (fine slices of raw meat), sushi and soups.

Rotating booths and karaoke: If you’re looking for Belfast restaurants for a great night out, book into the Japanese Tatami room or the private karaoke room

8. Shu Restaurant Belfast

Photos via Shu Belfast on FB

The Main Room at Shu Restaurant on the Lisburn Road is where French, Mediterranean and Oriental influences come together to form a stunning take on European cuisine.

The first thing you’ll notice here is the interior – bottle green suede couches meet whitewashed brick, vibrant mosaic tiles and eclectic wall art.

But on to the menu – the stand-out starter , for me, is the Korean fried chicken, but the yellowtail sashimi and the salt and chill squid are worth considering.

For mains, there’s everything from roast halibut (with shellfish risotto) and veggie curries to aged Hereford sirloin and more.

Visiting at the weekend?  Head to Jul’s – it’s a cocktail bar and restaurant in the basement with a more chilled buzz

9. John Long’s

Photos via John Long’s on FB

If you’re in search of casual Belfast restaurants that dish up the city’s best fish and chips , mosey on down to John Long’s on Athol Street (near the Grand Opera House).

In 1914 (yes, 1914!), John Long converted a section of his grocery store so that he could sell fish and chips. Fast forward 100 years and 2 owners later and John’s Long’s is still making bellies happy.

You’ll find a no-nonsense menu here, with sausage suppers, steak burgers, chip butties and the pièce de résistance – the fresh battered fish supper.

Like stepping back in time: The interior at Long’s is like a living museum, with formica furniture that dates to the 1970s 

10. Yügo

Photos via Yügo on IG

One of the newest additions to our guide to the best restaurants Belfast has to offer is Wellington Street’s Yügo .

Here, you’ll find traditional Asian cooking mixed with ‘a Belfast Bushido attitude’ and a minimalist interior along with Asian-style cocktails .

If it’s your first visit, try the dumplings (the spicy beef and bone marrow is delicious) or the bao (I’d eat 10 of the panko prawn ones..!).

Crafty cocktails: There’s an extensive cocktail menu at Yügo. If you fancy something different, try the Vietnamese Iced Coffee 

11. OX Belfast

Photos via OX Belfast on FB

OX is an award-winning restaurant on Oxford Street that’s been on the go since back in 2013, and it’s run by two friends – Stephen and Alan, who racked up experience in Michelin starred kitchens in Paris.

The interior of OX small, bright and airy with minimal clutter and large windows that face out to the River Lagan. The menus here are designed around seasonal, locally sourced produce and, as such, change often.

Previous menus have contained the likes of Skeaghanore duck (with salsify, buckwheat and elderberries) and wild venison tartare (with lovage, black garlic and fermented kohlrabi).

If you’re looking for Belfast restaurants to mark a special occasion , you won’t be disappointed here.

Eat with your eyes: The only thing better than the taste of the food at OX is the presentation. Every inch of the dishes here are meticulously assembled

12. Neill’s Hill Brasserie

Photos via Neill’s Hill on FB

Inside Neill’s Hill Brasserie on Upper Newtownards Road you’ll find exec chef  Cath Gradwells cooking up a storm with the very best in traditional Irish foods , from fresh fish to locally sourced cuts of meat.

There are vegan, brunch and lunch menus at Neill’s, but we’ll focus on the evening one, which is laden with tasty bits .

For starters, there’s everything from crab linguine (with tomatoes, parsley and chilli) to sizzling Portavogie prawns , hot wings and courgette frites.

For mains , you’ll have a tough choice deciding between the steak (flat iron, aged sirloin an ribeyes) and the fish (roast seabass (with soked salmon arancini).

On-the-go for 25+ years: There are  plenty  of places to eat in Belfast, but if you fancy one that’s stood the test of time, give Neill’s a bash (your belly will thank you!)

13. The Muddlers Club

Photos via The Muddlers Club on FB

The Muddlers Club is one of a handful of Michelin star restaurants in Belfast City Centre, and you’ll find it tucked away in the colourful streets of the Cathedral Quarter .

Named after a secret society that met there over 200 years ago, this swanky spot offers fine dining in a dark yet warming post-industrial-style room.

Head chef Gareth McCaughey combines the very best of home grown produce and a wealth of skill to create dishes that’ll tantalise your tastebuds .

Try the tasting menu: It changes regularly but recent dishes include beef with mushroom and bone marrow and Wicklow venison with parsnip and chestnut

Photos via Coco on FB

Tucked away in Belfast’s linen quarter , just behind Belfast City Hall, Coco is one of the more recent additions to this guide to the best restaurants in Belfast.

After admiring the beautiful red brick building, step inside and take in the funky interior with its very quirky artwork.

If you’re going for starters , the salt and chilli squid (with napa slaw, aioli and chill jam) and the roast squash risotto (with pine nuts and crispy sage) are the pick of the bunch.

You’ll have a hard time picking a main , with several scrumptious options on offer, like the basil stuffed chicken breast with potato gnocci and the veal loin with cocotte potatoes.

The pre-theatre menu is great value:  Run at select times, you’ll get 2 courses for £23 and 3 for £29.50

15. Bank Square Brasserie

Photos via Bank Square Brasserie on FB

One of my favourite things about Berry Street’s Bank Square Brasserie is its location – it’s surrounded by lovely traditional pubs that are great for a pre-dinner pint, like Madden’s .

The interior of Bank Square is cosy, with brick lined columns and vintage chandeliers that give it an olde worlde feel .

Two of the highlights on the starter menu are the saffron and beef shin arancini (with garlic and lemon aioli) and the zesty Thai crispy beef (with napa slaw).

On to the mains. I’ve been here twice now – on the first visit I had the bone marrow beef burger and I had to be rolled out of the place! On the second, I had the much lighter pan fried salmon with potato gnocci – both were the business!

There’s great value lunch: There’s a £10 lunch menu served from Monday to Friday a mix of fish and meat dishes

16. Molly’s Yard

Photos via Molly’s Yard on FB

With sparkling reviews online, Molly’s Yard on College Green near Queen’s University is up there as one of the best places to eat in Belfast.

It’s also one of the most unique. The restaurant is situated inside a restored 19th century stable that was once part of College Green House.

There’s plemnty to like about the à la carte menu here, with simple options, like the soup with crusty bread to start and the more adventurous crispy spiced haloumi.

For mains, there is everything from a chargrilled ribeye (with root veg, red wine jus and hand cut chips) and a tasty butter roasted hake fillet .

Visiting during summer? If the weather is good, try and nab a table in the courtyard outside

17. Deanes Meat Locker

Photos via Deanes Meat Locker on FB

Deanes is a Belfast institution , of sorts, and it’s one of a few places to eat in Belfast that’s as popular with locals as it is with tourists.

There are four venues to choose from (each of which falls under the umbrella of legendary restaurateur Michael Deane).

The Meat Locker is widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in Belfast for steak . There’s a choice of cuts and each is served with a rocket and parmesan salad, a choice of sauce and some tasty beef dripping chips .

Well worth reserving a table: Deanes is a popular spot so booking online, which you can do in seconds , is well worth it!

18. Coppi Restaurant

Photos via Coppi on FB

We’re off to Coppi on Saint Anne’s Square , next – one of the best restaurants in Belfast when it comes to Italian food!

Coppi was inspired by the Cicchetti bars in Venice and it’s run by husband and wife team Andrea and Chef Tony O’Neill.

The menu here is laden with contemporary, Italian inspired dishes with starters that include feta fritters (fried feta drizzled with truffle aioli) and duck arancini (crispy duck and rice balls).

For mains, when I was here last, I went for the slow braised beef shin lasagne and it was sensational. I’ve also had the classic duck ragu and it was ridiculously good. There’s also a variety of pizzas.

Have room for dessert? Indulge in the warm chocolate and hazelnut cookie with Nutella ice cream

19. Graze Belfast

Photos via Graze Belfast on FB

The last spot in our guide to the best restaurants Belfast has to offer is the brilliant Graze , on Upper Newtownards Road.

Graze was set-up in 2013 by John Moffatt, who worked in some of the best places to eat in Belfast over the years. This amassed experience is evident from first bite to last .

There are some great starters on the go here, from the Lentil dahl (with crispy vegetables, cucumber and harrisa creme fraiche) and the Salt and chilli Dexter beef (with Asian salad and anticucho mayo).

For mains , there’s plenty of choice, like the seabass fillet, the 8oz Hereford, the green vegetable risotto and the seafood linguine.

Where to eat in Belfast: What have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out some brilliant restaurants in Belfast City centre and beyond.

If you’ve eaten in any good Belfast restaurants recently that you’d recommend, let me know in the comments below.

Fancy more food guides?

• Afternoon tea in Belfast
• Bottomless brunch in Belfast
• Best cafes in Belfast
• Breakfast in Belfast
• Vegan restaurants in Belfast

FAQs about the best restaurants in Belfast

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from where the get the best food in Belfast if you fancy something cheap and tasty to where to go for fine dining.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best restaurants in Belfast?

In our opinion, the best places for dinner in Belfast are EDO, Holohan’s Pantry, The Ginger Bistro and Darcy’s.

What are the best places to eat in Belfast City?

For something casual, John Long’s and Tribal Burger pack a punch. For something more formal, try Coco, Yügo or Shu. To be honest, the list of Belfast restaurants above has been very carefully curated, so you won’t go wrong with any of them.

What Belfast restaurants are the fanciest?

If you’re looking for places to eat in Belfast for a special occasion, The Muddlers Club, EDO, James St and OX are all worth checking out.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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The Best Things to See and Do, Eat and Drink in Belfast

by Kathryn Burrington | City Breaks , Europe , Food and Drink , Kat's Top 10 , Northern Ireland , Popular

When I first visited Belfast in 2016, to say the city exceeded my expectations is a vast understatement. I had no idea that it was such a fascinating, vibrant place, and, with its compact city centre, so easy to get around. Beautiful Victorian and Edwardian architecture, fabulous food and drink, and extremely welcoming locals abound. So please read on, as I think you too might be pleasantly surprised by the many treats that Belfast has to offer. There’s a fabulous range of things to do in Belfast and no end of great bars and restaurants. Here’s my guide to the top things to see and do, eat and drink in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

This post contains affiliate links. For further information please read my disclaimer .

Table of Contents

Top Things to See and Do in Belfast, Northern Ireland

A black cab tour.

A great way to see Belfast’s highlights is on a guided mini cab tour. And this was the first thing I did after I had checked in to my hotel. If you’re wondering what to do in Belfast a Black Cab Tour is a great place to start.

My driver and Blue Badge Guide, Billy, was superb. Although the rate at which the facts were coming was somewhat overwhelming, I wouldn’t have missed meeting this jovial character for the world – a first-rate introduction to the city, including the political murals, city hall and Crumlin Gaol.

The Crown Liquor Saloon

I visited several fantastic pubs, all oozing with character, but the one that people repeatedly recommended to me was the Crown, which just happened to be across the street from my hotel, the Europa on Great Victoria Street. It is now possibly one of my all-time favourite pubs, and it’s certainly in first place when it comes to decor. Step inside, and you are in for a real treat.

I have never seen a pub where so much attention to detail has been paid to the decor – from the carved mahogany booths to the etched glass windows, the beautiful wooden ceiling, to the tiled bar. Glorious. Simply stunning. And it’s owned by the National Trust . However, I’m holding something back here. Keep reading.

Belfast City Hall

Built at a time when Belfast’s industry was flourishing and ships such as the Titanic were being built, this iconic building reflected the wealth that was flowing into the city in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The lavish interior is well worth seeing, and there are several free guided tours every day. As well as the council chambers, there is a popular coffee shop, and occasionally exhibitions and concerts are held here. By day or by night, this elegant building presides over the city with grace and grandeur.

The City Hall is by no means the only building that was designed to impress. A wander around the city centre will reveal many beautiful architectural gems.

Don’t forget your travel adaptor if travelling from outside the UK Worldwide travel adaptors are perfect no matter where you are travelling from or to. Buy this one from the US or this one from the UK . It’s pretty much the only one you’ll ever need.

The Titanic Experience

I’ve always been spellbound by the style and grandeur of the trio of Olympic-class liners of the White Star Line, namely, the Olympic, the Titanic and the Britannic. But it is, of course, the middle of the three and her ill-fated maiden voyage, that we are all most familiar with.

The Titanic Belfast imaginatively brings to life the majesty, power, and tragedy of this epic tale, and is probably the most impressive attraction of this type that I have ever seen – well worth the £19 entry fee which includes admission to the SS Nomadic (see below).

I was disappointed not to have been able to visit on a Sunday for a spot of  Afternoon Tea by a stunning replica of the grand staircase in the Titanic Suite, one of several rooms that can be hired for events including weddings. What an exceptional setting that would be for your big day. Having recently set a date for mine, I can’t help but picture myself and Neill and I  posing for our wedding snaps on these stairs as Rose and Jack (a somewhat older version, that is).

Included in your entrance to ticket to the Titanic Exhibition is entrance to the SS Nomadic, the only surviving White Star Line ship. It was used as a tender carrying passengers from Cherbourg Harbour to the Titanic before she set sail on her maiden voyage. The ‘Unsinkable Molly Brown’ was just one of the famous guests that boarded the Titanic via the Nomadic.

The Nomadic went on to work as a tender for many other great ships. She survived two world wars and numerous attempts to scrap her as well as transformations into a night club and a restaurant before she was returned to Belfast where she had originally been built at the same time and by the same men as the Titanic. Having been carefully restored she now makes an excellent addition to the exhibition. Many famous celebrities have boarded the SS Nomadic over the years including Charlie Chaplin, Marie Curie, Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor.

Titanic Hotel

Next door to the exhibition in the heart of Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, the legendary Harland & Wolff Headquarters and Drawing Offices has been transformed into the Titanic Hotel. The beautiful drawing office is now a stunning bar where you can enjoy afternoon tea or a reasonably priced lunch. Be sure to check out the corridor behind the bar where you’ll find some fascinting historic photographs.

Check availabilty and prices at the Titanic Hotel, Belfast

Crumlin Road Gaol

Visit The Crumlin Road Gaol for a fascinating, if poignant, glimpse of Belfast history. Said to be one of the most haunted locations in Northern Ireland they offer daily tours, ghost walks, paranormal tours, Victorian tours and historical evening tours.

Street Art and the Belfast Peace Walls

The best part of the minicab tour was being able to get out of the city center to see some of Belfast’s political street art. Many of Belfast’s peace walls are covered in murals, as are a number of end of terrace houses outside of the city centre. The history of political murals in Belfast dates back way further than most would realise, to the time of when the City Hall and the Titanic were being built.

Since the Good Friday Agreement brought the Northern Irish conflict to an end in 1998, political murals  are one of the city’s main tourist attractions.

Another place well worth a visit is an alley off Commercial Court. Below a ceiling of bright yellow umbrellas, murals depict well-known faces from the world of music and beyond. These include some of Belfast’s famous sons and daughters, from the football player George Best to Republican  Bobby Sands , 1 of 10 who gave their lives in the 1981 hunger strikes. He’s pictured here wearing a yellow, red and black shirt and in the end of terrace mural above. Surprisingly, while prisoners couldn’t vote, they could be elected as a member of the British Parliament. Bobby became an MP just a month before he died, and was never able to take up his seat. My favourite quote from the murals is written beside him on the terrace wall –  “Our revenge will be the laughter of our children.”

Above: More colourful street art found off Commercial Court

Neill, my intended, and a keen musician himself, lived in Belfast for 6 months (while working on the first season of Game of Thrones) and rates it as the best place for live music he’s ever been to, “Free music in all the pubs, top name acts performing in intimate concert halls.” He fondly remembers that “While in Kelly’s bar, a bunch of people just started playing an impromptu session of superb traditional music.”

Above: Fibber Magees, long before the punters started arriving for the next gig

Sadly I didn’t have time to catch any live music, but I’m hoping to return before too long and top of my list will be a visit to Fibber Magees, a traditional Irish music bar on Blackstaff Square, just opposite my hotel, the Europa . Its website invites you to “Pull up a stool by the open fire and enjoy the tunes of traditional musicians, every night of the week. With fiddles, pipes and the bodhráns; the craic is guaranteed. C’mon over and join us for a pint, we’re keeping your seat warm.” All I had time for was to snap a quick photo just before I left for the airport but, Fibber Magees, keep my seat warm, I’ll be back.

Update: Having returned numerous times to Belfast, I have since seen some live music as Fibbers at it was excellent. Other great venues for traditional music or ‘trd’ as it’s locally known is  Maddens in Berry Street and nearby Kelly’s Cellar in Bank Street. Read more about where to drink in the city and catch some live music in my article, The best bars in Belfast .

Glass of Thrones

On my most recent visit to Belfast, I stumbled across a new series of stained glass windows that have sprung up around the city forming a walking trail that leads from Belfast City Hall to the Game of Thrones Touring Exhibition next door to the Titanic Studios where the series was first created. The exhibition will be in Belfast until September 2019.

Recommended for you:   How to visit Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland

Top Things to Eat & Drink in Belfast, Northern Ireland

Food and drink, however, were the reason I was in Belfast in the first place. I was to attend the New Year Banquet that launched the city’s Year of Food and Drink in 2016.

With wonderful timing, National Geographic has just featured Belfast in their top ten places to visit for food in 2016 . They say that “Belfast’s easy access to top-notch food products keeps the local culinary scene buzzing”. Having met some of the producers and tasted their wares, I have to agree. You’ll find many excellent restaurants around the city, including Deanes at Queens  (you must try their risotto). And with the likes of Michelin-starred restaurants like   The Ox , being listed among the world’s ‘hot restaurants’ by Condé Nast Traveller, Belfast has firmly staked its claim on the global gourmet map.

Want to know where to eat and drink? Check out The best bars in Belfast and The best restauarants in Belfast .

Bushmills Whiskey

But first off, let’s talk whiskey with an ‘e’. One of the pubs we passed on the Black Cab Tour was the Duke of York in Commercial Court, just opposite the alley full of bright yellow umbrellas. Having popped back later in the day to take some photographs, I decided to nip into the pub to warm up. And to heat me up from the inside out I had a glass of  Bushmills Whiskey , described as “an approachable whiskey with a rich, warming taste of fresh fruit and vanilla and a touch of honey sweetness”. It really was a revelation, as I had no idea that whiskey could be so smooth. Even if you think you don’t like whiskey I urge you to try it.

With a history dating back to 1608, the Old Bushmills Distillery in the village of Bushmills is a mere two miles from the iconic Giant’s Causeway. I think it would be w ell worth a return visit to see both.

Read on to find out how else I enjoyed some Bushmills.

The Ulster Fry

I was pleased to see that my hotel, the  Europa , is particularly proud of Ireland’s wonderful food heritage. The next two items on my list will have you in quandary as to what to have for breakfast when you stay there. Of course, I had to try them both, to report back to you on my findings!

I’m getting hungry just looking at it. The Ulster Fry is similar to a Full-English Breakfast but you won’t find fried bread, hash browns, or even a simple slice of toast here. Instead, your Ulster Fry is completed with both the traditional soda bread and potato bread, griddled until crisp. And while I’ve seen black pudding feature in a Full-English, in my neck of the woods at least, I’ve never seen white pudding, and both are delicious additions. And it’s all sourced from the finest local producers. Reading the hotel’s booklet ‘Who made my breakfast?’, another quote stood out: “The happiest hens lay the tastiest eggs”.

Porridge with cream, honey, and whiskey

As if the porridge from White’s Oat Mill in County Armagh isn’t creamy enough as it is, it’s not uncommon, especially on the weekends I’m told, for a little cream, honey and best of all, Bushmills Whiskey to be drizzled all over your porridge. What an excellent way to start your day.

The first thing Neill said when he found out I was going to Belfast, or rather the second thing after “Can I come too?”, was that I must visit the Crown, not only for its fabulous interior (see number 2), but because it serves the best pint of Guinness, Ireland’s unofficial national drink, in Belfast.

Obediently, on my first day in the city, I popped in and had a half, which went down very well indeed and the next day I popped back for a pint (well I needed the photo with the logo, which you only get on the pint glass).

The staff and locals were friendly, the Guinness top-notch, and the decor and furnishings even more stunning than I had anticipated.

Craft Beers

Craft beers have come into their own in recent years in Northern Ireland, and there’s a fabulous range to choose from. I sampled a glass of Yardsman , Belfast Pale Ale, with a superb lunch at Deans of Queens, brewed right here in the city.

Street Food

The latest addition to Belfast’s culinary scene, having opened in this location by The Big Fish just a few days before my visit, comes in the shape of a food truck. With their impressive signature burgers, sweet potato fries and, pictured below, their Portavogie prawns and salmon fish cakes with salad and a mango and pomegranate salsa,  Wolf and Devour  is bound to be a big hit with office workers on their lunch breaks and visitors on their hols alike.

They source all their ingredients from Northern Ireland’s best local suppliers, and their disposables come from eco-friendly, Greenman Packaging in Bangor and are fully biodegradable.

Update: Wolf & Devour have since opened a burger bar at 346 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 3EX | 028 9065 6701

Artisan Gin

The gin craze that’s swept across Europe hasn’t bypassed Belfast. Top local gin distillers include Jaw Boz, Shortcross, Boatyard and Symphonia. I couldn’t pick a favourite. I love them all!

In just two short days, Belfast has gotten under my skin and I’m longing to return to discover more about the city and beyond. I’m sure that there are many more wonders to see, hidden gems to find and delectable tasty treats to wolf and devour.

How to get to Belfast

Fly from Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Liverpool, London Gatwick, London Luton, London Stansted, Newcastle and many more European airports

With flight times from London to Belfast being less than an hour and a half, it makes a superb destination for a short break from London, and there are many more flights from regional airports and across Europe.

How to get from the airport to Belfast city centre

Belfast city airport.

It’s about a 20-minute taxi ride from George Best Belfast City Airport to the city centre hotels. Value Cabs is the official taxi operator for Belfast City Airport. They are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for travel to and from the airport. A taxi from the airport to the city centre costs about £10. Their number is 028 9080 9080.

The 600 bus costs just a couple of pounds. Tickets can be bought at the information desk in the exit hall or from the driver.

Belfast International Airport

Belfast International Airport is a little further out but still only about a 30-minute drive away. The official taxi company is the International Airport Taxi Company, 028 9448 4353. A list of sample fares is displayed in the exit hall of the terminal building.

The 300 bus takes about 35 minutes to the city centre. Again, you can buy a ticket at the information desk in the exit hall or on the bus itself. The bus stop is just outside the arrivals hall to the left-hand side. AT peak times they run every 15 minutes, but this reduces to just every hour in the evenings. A return ticket from Belfast Internal Airport to the city centre costs £11.

Belfast Bus Tips: Be warned; the bus stop announcements are unreliable. I found following our route on the map on my phone helped me work out when to get off. To catch the bus from Belfast back to the airport, you’ll need to go to the bus station behind the Europa Hotel.

Alternatively, Viator offers inexpensive private transfers from the airport to city centre hotels.

Where to stay in Belfast

I stayed at the hotel   Europa  and found it very comfortable, with excellent service and great food. It is also centrally located, and right opposite two of the pubs mentioned in this article, the lovely Crown Liquor Saloon and Fibber Magees. I felt very safe walking back to the hotel alone in the evenings, and would recommend it for solo female travellers, couples, or groups of friends. The bus station is right behind the hotel so it’s super easy to catch a bus to the airport too from here.

I’ve also stayed at the Ramada in the Cathedral Quarter and found it perfectly located for enjoying a great range of fabulous bars and restaurants right on your doorstep. It’s an easy walk from there into the town centre as well as the Titanic Quarter too. The nearby Dream Apartments are lovely too and would be a great choice if you want self-catering. The Cathedral Quarter would always be my first choice when it comes to location.

Looking for a hotel in Belfast?

Agoda | Booking.com | Hotels Combined | Trip Advisor

Discover more… Chocolates, gin and seaweed on a fabulous Belfast Food Tour In search of giants and the Iron Islands along the Causeway Coast How to visit Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland

Disclosure: My visit to Belfast was courtesy of Ireland and Nothern Ireland Tourism Boards. As always, the thoughts and opinions expressed remain my own as do the calories consumed (and the weight gained, gosh darn it!)

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37 Comments

This street art is fantastic.I look forward to doing an art tour in Belfast at some point.

It’s a fabulous city. I’m hoping to go back again soon. It will be my fourth visit! That probably says it all.

Hi Kathryn,

Thanks for sharing. I love the way you organize your blog. It’s like telling a story. Now we know what the best places are. Do you have anything in mind on what places to avoid or restaurants that are overrated?

No, I’m afraid I don’t as everywhere I went impressed me during this visit. I am heading back again in a few weeks, so look out for future posts from Belfast, however, if I go somewhere I don’t like I usually simply don’t write about it. I can see it might be useful for people to know where to avoid but I don’t feel comfortable running down someone else’s business without very good reason and one visit is unlikely to provide that.

Hi Kat. Thanks for your beautiful experience you shared with us thru the colorful lovely post, Very impressive and quite informative specially for the up coming travelers, great 🙂

I love this post on what to see and then followed up with where to eat, what a fantastic concept of your top 12 for Belfast

Thanks Noel. I REALLY enjoyed researching for it. 😉

I’ve only ever been in Belfast on day trips, so much more to see and do there by the looks of things. Love all the colours here, Kat.

I’m loving all that street art there. I’m soon to head on a London street art tour for the first time and love spotting it in other cities too, especially where it has interesting satirical and political messages behind it. And the interiors of the crown liquor saloon look just stunning!

I love the street art in and around Brick Lane in London – Especially the trubite to Terry Pratchett and Josh Kirby. I’m sure that will be on your to tour.

Although I have a lot of dislike for what goes on in the area, the black taxi tour is a fascinating experience – to stand there in the commenting and listen to the thought and opinions on both sides – really unique!

Great list 😉

Not a huge fan of whisky or Guinness, if I’m honest, but would love to visit the Titanic Experience – such an iconic building and a fitting tribute for such an incredibly tragic story.

Ah but it isn’t whisky. It is whiskey and there’s a huge difference 😉

But I’m sure you’d find another local beverage you’d like and the Titanic Experience is indeed superb.

I loved Belfast when I visited a few years ago. The food and drink was excellent and the Titanic exhibition is a must-do. I also did the tour of Crumlin Road Gaol which you mentioned which was also excellent – if a little spooky….

The Crumlin Road Gaol wouldn’t have been something I’d have thought of doing but many people recommend so I’ll be checking it out for sue when I go back.

Ireland is very high on our list and visiting Belfast is definitely up there, though I believe my family heritage is further south. I can just imagine that is fun, lively, with music, food and listening to that amazing Irish accent. Yes, bumping it up further now.

Sounds like you had a great time, plenty of nourishment and Guiness to be had. I’d like to see those street art murals

Loved Belfast when I visited a couple of winters ago – though looks like I missed a few good food and drink spots when I was there, have been meaning to go back though and see more of Northern Ireland.

Me to! I’m already longing to return and see more of Belfast and the rest of Northern Ireland. The scenery looks stunning and I’dlove to see some of the Game of Thrones locations.

I would love to visit the Titanic museum… we glimpsed it driving past on the way to Derry a few years ago just didn’t have time to stop sadly. Loving that street art – so many stories told

Great shots! Looks like a fun destination. Bring on the Bushmills..

I love Belfast! The architecture is gorgeous, and during a tour of City Hall, we ran into the city’s mayor, who was nice enough to stop and chat with us for a bit. Great city!

That must have been interesting. I certainly found everyone extremely friendly. As you say a great city 🙂

Its crazy to admit but I still have never been to Belfast – we were so afraid of it when we were younger but now its just something I keep building up to for a big trip. Its just 1.5 hrs from Dublin so I really must make it a mission before we leave for Berlin in March. I’ve always wanted to try the Black Cabs tour so will definitely look up Billy :-D! Fab photos as usual Kat.

Thanks Orla. I must admit I didn’t realise Dublin was quite so close. You could visit for the day!! Although it would be a shame not to stay longer. Together they’d make a great double act. Fly into Belfast and out from Dublin, now that’s got me thinking! Is Guinness really better in Belfast as Richard thinks? I need to find out!

It feels very unpatriotic but I just don’t like Guinness – I love the aesthetic of it but am not a fan of the taste. According to my learned friends – the best Guinness is down to the establishment – the frequency of pints pulled, maintenance of the pipes and the degree of historical fervour to sweeten the experience – its not an exact science but a science all the same :-D.

Very unpatriotic indeed! What you’ve heard I’m sure applies to all draught beers and cider and I’ve come across some not so good ones in my time here in England. I’ve also heard that Guinness doesn’t travel well which is why it’s not so good in England as in Ireland. I need to do some more research to be sure.

Belfast looks amazing. How great are your pictures? The first one is amazing. I also liked the one by the cityhall by night. If I’m ever going to Belfast I know where to look for the best drink and food options 😉

Belfast is a very photogenic place. Just wished I had more time there.

Who knew Belfast was this beautiful! I love the pub with the little alcoves with doors!! Fascinating, thanks Kat!

I know! I rather I didn’t know. The decor at the Crown really is superb, as is their Guinness.

Some beautiful photos here – the Crown Liquor Saloon looks like my kind of place, and Guinness is certainly my kind of drink 🙂 To street art is stunning too. I remember, as a child, hearing all sorts of stories of how the ‘troubles’ made Belfast a no-go area. It’s great that times have now changed, most definitely for the better!

They certainly have and I think Belfast and the whole of Northern Ireland is set to become a very popular tourist destination.

This city looks so colorful. I would love to visit but I’ll probably will have to skip on the Titanic experience ahah. I’m a sucker for good whiskey and beer though so I’ll definitely hit up the crowne liquor saloon – the name just sounds good 🙂

The Crown is my favourite so far but all the pubs I popped into had so much character. I’m sure you’d love Belfast.

I loved the Guinness at The Crown too, and thought it was even better than the stuff in Dublin! Good job you didn’t have far to stumble to your room at The Europa. How was that? Someone told me you can still see the bullet holes from when it used to get bombed all the time.

I loved the Europa. The staff were great, my room smart and spacious with a seriously comfy bed, food superb and the location couldn’t be better. And you’d certainly never know about it’s troubled past. Lots of famous people have stayed her since too from Bill Clinton, Atomic Kitten, Patricia Hodge and reputedly Julia Roberts. If it’s good enough for Julia….

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Hello, I’m Kathryn, a travel writer, photographer and holistic therapist based on the south coast of England.

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Where and what to eat and drink in Belfast

Chloe King heads to the Northern Irish capital to experience a city at its culinary peak. From Michelin-starred tasting menus and international flavours to buzzing food markets and a great cup of coffee, here are the places to visit when you’re in Belfast.

Writer and illustrator Chloe King is founder of the food lovers’ book club Cook the Books.

Writer and illustrator Chloe King is founder of the food lovers’ book club Cook the Books. A member of the Guild of Food Writers and a Royal College of Art graduate, Chloe is happiest working on projects that combine her love of food and cooking with her interest in art and culture, people and places. Based in East Sussex, Chloe's freelance portfolio spans graphic art, journalism, events management and lecturing.

As I approach Belfast by car, one of the first things I see is a giant wire sun beaming a message of hope across the Broadway Roundabout. To the east side, the twin cranes of Queen’s Island tell a story of industry, ingenuity and grit. These bold icons reflect the city’s food scene too: as an enigmatic melting pot of huge promise. Now old-school boozers like Duke of York and Bittles – with its beautiful, flat-iron shaped building – share space with hip cocktail bars like Love & Death . A huge array of beers and spirits are on offer, many made on the island of Ireland, and there’s no shortage of venues for coffee or brunch. General Merchants , The Pocket and Morning Martha , to name but three. A growing number of top restaurants are appearing. Ox , Deanes EIPIC and The Muddlers Club all hold Michelin Stars. And while Belfast never lacked creativity, the stars act as a beacon to those who might once have stuck up their nose. Chefs like Ryan Jenkins of Roam Pop-up and foraging expert Claire McQuillan at Feasting on Weeds are part of a ripple effect: a scene unique to this compact, characterful city.

The Ormeau Road, once home to a vast commercial bakery, is an up-and-coming area loved for its independent shops and green spaces. Stray out of the centre on foot and you’ll discover treats like IndieFüde Ormeau or Bread & Banjo Bakery. Restaurants like Bo Tree (Thai), La Taqueria (Mexican) and Jumon (plant-based Asian fusion) add international flavours, as do the traders of St George’s Market and Common Market.

Traditional Irish dishes can be enjoyed too, with places such as Holohan’s Pantry and Molly’s Yard offering quality seafood and classic steaks. At the end of the day, all the places mentioned here are proudly Belfast, with not just their location in common but their appreciation for the region’s world-class ingredients.

Here are some of the highlights from a city brimming with incredible food and drink.

Stove Belfast

Opening mid-pandemic meant head chef Simon Toye and Simon McCance faced huge challenges. Their tenacity is paying off however, with Simon shortlisted for Ulster’s Best Chef in the Food & Wine Awards 2021. ‘It’s fantastic that we’re spoken in the same breath as the likes of Stevie at Ox and Alex at EIPIC,’ says Simon. ‘They’re the trailblazers so we’re delighted we’re even on the same page. It’s brilliant for us.’ The compact, forty-seat bistro occupies a modest spot above an Action Cancer store on Ormeau Road and exceeds expectations for exceptional, accessible food. A small galley kitchen produces a ‘five, five and five’ menu reflecting what’s local and in season – venison, pigeon, Dover sole. ‘We’re getting really-well known for seafood,’ says Simon. ‘That’s what I like to cook the best.’

Established Coffee

Bridgeen Barbour and Mark Ashbridge opened Established in 2013 with a kitchen bought for just £80 in a charity shop. Sheer hard work, a passion for welcoming service and a nose for what’s up-and-coming has helped grow a diverse and loyal following. Their 1,200sqft shop offers an airy and welcoming space serving breakfast, lunch and treats with specials such as American-style pie and coffee on Sundays. Working with suppliers Origin Coffee in Cornwall, they took a leap in bringing their own roaster over at the start of the pandemic and now sell a range of roasts to enjoy at home. As Bridgeen says, ‘We just want to have great service, a bit of craic, provide a really lovely space and make people’s lives a little bit better than they were when they came in.’

When Christy McQuillan returned to Belfast from working in fine dining across Europe he decided to bring a bit of Berlin with him. With brother Gerard he created the Gypsy Kitchen, a pop-up combining tasting menus and DJs, then in 2017 they launched Freight . The original seventy-five-seater restaurant built from shipping containers – chosen for portability, value and reusability – is surprisingly warm and spacious. The concept was an instant hit and now two venues, in East Belfast and Lisburn Road, are ever-busy with brunch all week and dinner from Thursday to Saturday. Their often-changing menus travel from bahn mi to ox cheek benny and prioritise local ingredients and veg from their allotment. The ethos has sustainability at its core – run on renewable energy, good music and own-brand craft beer.

Head chef Jonny Elliot worked with Gordon Ramsay, Gary Rhodes and Albert Roux before returning to Belfast about six years ago to open Edo in 2017. His pan-European tapas restaurant promotes a free and flexible way to eat and has a bustling, friendly atmosphere that offers something a bit different. ‘I don’t like it to be pretentious,’ says Jonny. ‘You can’t really enjoy food if you’re uptight.’ Using quality local ingredients is a given and the kitchen has a special Bertha oven that helps them create sweet, smoky flavours using local applewood and peat. ‘A lot of variety has come about in the last six or seven years which is brilliant,’ says Jonny. ‘We’ve travelled and brought our own take on things back to Belfast, so it’s going really well.’

Artists Phillip McCrilly, Mitch Conlon and Jennifer Mehigan opened café and cultural hub Fruit Shop in the summer of 2020. The trio design and programme creative, communal experiences that focus on local food history and community growing, among other things. ‘From our early beginnings, it was important to create an inclusive space,’ explains Phillip. ‘Our customer base is quite reflective of that, and includes both local residents of all ages and backgrounds, as well as visitors from further afield.’ Fruit Shop offers a menu of sweet treats and lunches to eat in or take away that shows a genuine excitement in food and flavour. The vegan okonomiyaki and mushroom croque madame are faves, as are their weekend doughnuts filled with ‘everything from sea buckthorn curd to black sesame caramel crème pât’.

The Muddlers Club

Since opening on a Belfast backstreet in 2015, head chef Gareth McCaughey and the team at The Muddlers Club let the restaurant build by word of mouth. ‘It stood us in good stead,’ explains Gareth. ‘We don't try to be anything we aren't. We want people to feel comfortable from the moment they come in and feel the warmth of our typical hospitable Belfast welcome.’ For a Michelin-starred restaurant, The Muddlers Club has a uniquely down-to-earth feel paired with a genial rock’n’roll atmosphere. Seasonal tasting menus are known to deliver punchy flavours, elegantly presented. ‘People in Belfast remain quietly confident and relatively humble about the ability we possess and the talent that we have in all industries,’ Gareth says. ‘We certainly haven't broken the mould with our ethos in remaining quietly confident.’

Head Chef Stephen Toman and business partner Alain Kerloc'h met working in L’Arpege in Paris and brought their vision of modern French gastronomy to Belfast. Ox has held a Michelin Star since 2016 and a fleet of accolades including Best Restaurant in Ireland (Food & Wine Awards 2018-2019) and 50 Best 2019. “We came back at the right time,” explains Toman. “The city has been through a lot. Everyone now just wants to make this city good, everyone wants it to be something special. You look at Edinburgh, you look at London, Dublin. Belfast is up there now.” Ox is well-loved for Kerloc'h’s carefully curated drinks offering shared with the next-door Ox Cave. The main tasting menu is built on an ever-changing list of 30 seasonal ingredients and dishes arrive in random order making each visit unique. A current favourite is a Jerusalem artichoke dish with chicken skin, crispy shallot and cep. “It’s just fantastic,” says Toman. “It’s autumn in a bowl”.

Deanes EIPIC

Holding the title for the longest held Michelin star on the island of Ireland, Micheal Deane is undoubtedly the grandfather of the modern Belfast food scene. It would be an understatement to call his restaurants an institution – now comprising six venues across Belfast – but Deanes EIPIC is most in the limelight today. EIPIC has held a Michelin star since 2016 for its intimate yet relaxed atmosphere and flavours that build in an ‘assured modern style’. Head chef and Great British Menu finalist Alex Greene is known to champion Northern Irish produce and people, with his bestselling dish being an edible version of Oliver Jeffers book, The Incredible Book Eating Boy. ‘Belfast has it all,’ he says. ‘The food scene at the moment is really buzzing and a very exciting place to be.’

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10 budget-friendly bites in Belfast

Belfast offers a range of budget-friendly dinner options that allow you to savour the city's culinary delights without breaking the bank.

The cost-of-living crisis shouldn’t mean the end of fab meals out with friends.

Whether you're in the mood for traditional food or international cuisine, here are some budget-friendly places to eat in Belfast...

Cuban Sandwich Factory

After conquering St. Georges Market, you can now treat yourself to the delicious Cuban sandwich Factory down Botanic. This tasty wee spot has meal deals if you are dining alone, with a friend, or as a group of 4. The sandwiches are all under £7 and well worth a visit!

Tribal Burger

Delicious dishes under £13 and a lunchtime offer! For a limited time, you can buy a lunchtime voucher for only £9.50! These vouchers are usually £15.50. when you buy a lunchtime voucher you can save up to £6 on a burger and fries. The voucher can be used 7 days a week any time up until 4 pm.

Town Square

A tasty mixture of meals with vegan-friendly options, with all dishes under £15. As well as a fantastic food selection, they have amazing drinks on offer. A variety of alcoholic, soft drinks and hot beverages. All of their cocktails are under £10 and for those non-drinkers, delicious mocktails are also available.

Little Wing

With the 'Little Wing Little Bill', you can get 2 courses, with a glass of wine, prosecco, a soft drink, beer, or cider for £16.50. If you want to go for the 'Lunch at Little Wing' offer you can grab any 6" pizza and a mini insalata or chicken Caesar salad for £6.95 available from 12-4 pm. If you just want to grab and go you can grab a 'Soda and Slice' which includes a slice of 24" of pepperoni or margherita pizza and a selected soft drink for only £4, available from 12-4 pm. And finally, for those broke students, Little Wing provide 20% discount. To qualify for this discount, you have to provide a valid student ID. T & Cs apply.

Hell Cat Maggie’s

With food options starting at £5 and kids' meals prices at £4.95, Hell Cat Maggie's is a must! The drinks menu starts at £4, with all cocktails under £10. An affordable place for a meal or drinks no matter your budget.

If you don't know what Boojum is, you must be living under a rock. All you have to do is choose from the wide selection of burritos, fajitas, burrito bowls, salads, nachos, and quesadillas and design it how you like it. Deciding on your rice, meat, and fillings. When you download the Boojum loyalty app, after 10 purchases you get a free meal, and after unlocking 4 free meals you win a Boojum t-shirt.

Ryan's Bar & Restaurant

With offers of 2 courses under £14, and seasonal dishes, classic dishes, and burgers all £15 or less and steaks at £21. Vegan options and a kids menu are also available. The bar and restaurant has a large selection of drinks and cocktails under £10.

Parlour bar

A student favourite with live music and a weekly quiz, The Parlour is an affordable favourite. With £4 pizza deal on Mondays from 3 – 6 pm and everything on the main menu for £11 or less. With this affordable favourite, you can also earn loyalty points on their Kudos app. By scanning the app every time you buy food or a drink you can earn 1 point for every pound spent. When you gain 100 points you get £2 off your bill.

Little Italy

You'll get an affordable slice of Belfast when you head to Little Italy. 12" pizzas all under £10 and Garlic bread only £2.50.

Full of offers and deals all year round, kids are also invited to eat for free this Halloween. At Yo! Sushi, fun and food go hand in hand. By playing BingYo you must collect every coloured plate of food off the conveyor belt of food. When you complete a row from your BingYo card you get 20% off your next visit. Yo! Sushi also have a stamp rewards scheme. Every time you spend £10 in Yo, you receive 1 new stamp. After collecting your first 3 stamps you can receive a £5 voucher, after collecting 6 stamps you receive a £10 voucher and when you collect 10 stamps you can collect a £20 voucher!

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