The capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast, has forever been at the center of the region’s political, economic, and cultural movements. Not surprisingly, the city is presently at the forefront of a gourmet revolution spearheaded by some of the best restaurants in Belfast.
Promising a diverse set of gastronomic delights, these establishments aren’t afraid to experiment with techniques and tastes while remaining loyal to the local produce. Adding to the gastronomic scene of Belfast is the opportunity to savor a fusion of Irish and world cuisines. A truly unique combination that avid food lovers will undoubtedly find exciting.
A similar development is visible in the overall tourism industry of Belfast. More people than before are choosing to spend their holidays in the city. Whether for a short weekend break or an extended vacation, one of the best ways to reach Belfast is by ferry. Easily bookable through Ferryscanner, visitors can hop on a boat from Cairnryan and start their Irish holiday in a traditional and leisurely manner.
The Barking Dog
Address: 33-35 Malone Rd, Belfast BT9 6RU
A neighborhood gastro-pub with a hint of hipster stylishness, The Barking Dog, is a hidden gem of a place, ideal for a relaxed dining experience in a non-fussy ambiance.
The restaurant’s grassy patio with picnic benches invites gourmands for a laidback brunch. At the same time, its interiors are homely with semi-distressed furniture, a chalkboard menu, brick walls, and cozy nooks.
The rusticness of the setting that makes The Barking Dog one of the best restaurants in Belfast carries forth in its menu. Featuring modern European classics, the dishes have a pleasing appearance and a familiar taste.
Home to “Belfast’s best burger,” the other must-haves at The Barking Dog include their homemade pasta of the day, fish pie, and tapas such as jerked chicken wings and sweet potato fries. The restaurant has both an a la carte and a set menu. They also serve vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and non-lactose food options.
OX Belfast
Address: 1 Oxford St, Belfast BT1 3LA
The multi-award-winning OX is fine-dining at its best but without the temperament of superiority typically associated with such places. Spearheading this 40-seater establishment, one of the best restaurants in Belfast, is Stephen and Alain. Passionate members of the epicurean world, both the owners demonstrate a neverending zeal to serve creative preparations using the very best seasonal ingredients.
The atmosphere at OX Belfast, particularly in the evenings, epitomizes understated romance. There’s much to admire here around sunset beside the food. Candlelit tables, whitewashed brick walls, comfortable seating, and a large streetside window granting a beautiful nighttime view set the right mood.
On the other hand, the food juxtaposes the simplicity of the interiors. As the plates arrive, one cannot but celebrate the delicacy of the vibrant preparations. It’s as if each element and ingredient has a specific role, combining to create that perfect dish.
OX’s lunch and dinner service consist of tasting menus featuring locally sourced ingredients. Some of their much-appreciated recipes are monktail, salt-cured halibut with buttermilk, radish, pickled mussels, and onion ravioli.
Nu Delhi
Address: 68-72 Great Victoria St, Belfast BT2 7AF
Famous across the city for its excellent service, the 100-seater Nu Delhi is the place in Belfast to satiate your curry cravings. A vibrant space with rich, bold colored walls and furnishings, Nu Delhi, is classic Bollywood meets shabby chic in its décor.
Furthermore, as one of the best Indian restaurants in Belfast, Nu Delhi takes pride in creating a lively setting with good food, great drinks, and upbeat music.
The rather extensive menu at the restaurant features the whos who of Indian cooking. You’ll find all the quintessential dishes here, from chicken tikka and fish pakoras to traditional biryani, lamb achari, seekh kebab, dal makhani, and naan. Moreover, by mixing local ingredients with Indian spices, the resulting preparations have an authentic yet slightly unique flavor profile.
Nu Delhi is quite a versatile restaurant. It’s a fabulous place for a business lunch, a casual date, or a large gathering with friends and family. Consequently, the restaurant remains busy, even on weekdays. It’s thus advisable to book a table before visiting.
Deanes Meat Locker
Address: 28-40 Howard St, Belfast BT1 6PF
For carnivorous gourmands sightseeing in the center of Belfast, the choice of restaurant for a memorable meal is pretty simple, Deanes Meat Locker. A part of the culinary empire headed by Chef Michael Deane, Meat Locker is a sophisticated yet surprisingly easygoing space that never fails to delight its hungry patrons.
Setting the atmosphere is the restaurant’s décor, highlighted by its deep-maroon-colored walls, mini-chandeliers, and tables adorned with classic white cloths. The staff is friendly, professional, and a great source of information to learn more about individual dishes or pick-up recommendations.
The food at Meat Locker is a hearty celebration, best enjoyed on a day you are feeling ravenous. The small plates such as chicken liver with foie gras and Thai-style scallops are delicious snacks that prepare the palate for the oncoming mains.
Cooked on an Asador grill, the main dishes you must try are the dry-aged sirloin and the Delmonico ribeye. Otherwise, go with the Meat Locker burger or the breaded veal with fried egg, wild mushrooms, and triple-fried fries.
The Muddlers Club
Address: 1 Warehouse Ln, Belfast BT1 2DX
Adding a hint of mystery to an otherwise unmatched culinary experience is the Muddlers Club. Named after a secret society that would meet at this spot 200 years ago, the restaurant honors its clandestine past through ominous and intriguing industrial interiors. At the same time, that this Michelin-starred eatery is among the best restaurants in Belfast is no secret.
Started in 2015 by chef and owner Gareth McCaughey, The Muddlers Club believes in serving only the freshest seasonal produce. As a result, the menu changes frequently, but the dedication towards creating exceptional recipes remains the same.
The open kitchen at the Muddlers Club offers a choice between a tasting and a vegetarian menu. Both feature delectable preparations where even the most modest of ingredients get to shine under the spotlight.
Diners can expect flavorful and visually appealing presentations. One can choose from the likes of salt-aged beef with asparagus and wild garlic or cabbage, basil, dukkah, and pistachio. Desserts include delights such as chocolate with passion fruit and dulce de leche.
Hope Street
Address: 2 Little Victoria St, Belfast BT2 7JH
Hope Street is one of the much-loved local restaurants in Belfast. Still, among outsiders, it is a true hidden gem worth discovering. Simple in its appearance, Hope Street exudes an inviting warmth that makes it a lively place for a meal with friends or family.
However, it’s pertinent to note that the restaurant does not have a liquor license and operates as a BYO (Bring Your Own…). They charge nominal corkage on beers, wines, and spirits but nothing on mixers and soft drinks.
Another reason to dine at the 78-seater Hope Street is its menu consisting of recipes featuring Northern Irish ingredients. The goat’s cheese fritters, slow-cooked beef brisket, wild mushroom risotto, and Thai green curry further display the variety of food available here. Dinner guests can also opt for a pre-theater menu with either two or three courses.