Food & Drink

There is nothing better for working up an appetite than spending the day out in the sea air. So it’s little wonder that visitors on the Causeway Coastal Route are always happy to sit down in front of a well-earned lunch or hearty dinner. It will come as no surprise that many north coast restaurants feature fresh, locally caught fish. But there is plenty here for all kinds of food lovers and we promise you won’t go hungry.

Meal-times in Mattie’s, Ballygally

Mattie’s Meeting House is a local favourite in Ballygally. They’ve been serving up fine food and even finer pints since the early 1800s. They like to keep it simple here because they do it oh so well. If you’re looking for a tasty way to fill your proverbial tank then Boxer Jim’s Guinness Pie is just the ticket. Expect a warm welcome, a bit of craic and, at night, some intimate live music.

Chow-down in Cushendall

Those in chase of chowder will love the chef at Harry’s Restaurant in Cushendall. Always a barometer of any Irish restaurant, this seafood speciality here is top-notch. Follow it up with scampi and chips or the pan-fried fillet of hake with crayfish and you’re onto a winner of fishy dinner.

Cosy comfort food in Cushendun

Thursday night is steak night at Mary McBride’s in the scenic village of Cushendun. This is such a beautiful little pub that you may not want to leave except to go next door to the Little Black Door restaurant. Like all the buildings in this picturesque village, the pub is a whitewashed delight and really Cushendun is the perfect spot to wind down after a day trekking the Antrim coast. Keep an eye out for the special Game of Thrones® door which sits inside the pub. This was made from fallen trees at the famous Dark Hedges.

Below ground in Ballycastle

Located in the locally known diamond in the centre of Ballycastle, The Cellar Restaurant takes you underground and away from the hustle and bustle above. Church pews with cushioned seating flank the tables but the only worship is that of food. The Cellar offers the best quality locally sourced meat, fish and vegetables but don’t expect to get the same if you come back. The menu is constantly evolving.

Top-class brasseries in Bushmills

Tartine at The Distillers Arms is one of the great places to eat in Bushmills. This was originally home to the famous distillery’s owners. Today it is a top-class modern brasserie comprising three beautifully appointed, interconnecting rooms featuring paintings by local artists. The artist in the kitchen, Gary Stewart, has more medals and awards than Usain Bolt including Restaurateur of the Year for 2017 at the NI Institute of Hospitality Awards. As well as the classy main menu, there is a separate menu for vegans - the wild mushroom & pea risotto with beetroot puree & chargrilled chicory really hits the sweet spot.

Staying in Bushmills, The French Rooms has been offering up the best in haute cuisine since 2013. Give the roast supreme of guinea fowl a whirl before finishing off with their delightful creme brulee. Ooh la la.

Surf’n’tapas in Portrush

If you’re after something with more of an Iberian feel, then Ocho Tapas in Portrush will get your castanets a clackin’. As they say here, ‘tapas are made for sharing’ and there sure is a lot to go round in this place. Foodies who want to discover more about the glories of these great dishes can join the chefs for cookery classes too.

A seafood shack in Portstewart

Right on the Strand Road in Portstewart you’ll find Harry’s Shack. Sit inside in their spacious hall or outside on the sand and enjoy their top-class seafood, meat dishes and delectable desserts as you listen to the waves rush onto the beach. A very special spot.

Perfect portions and pints at Magilligan Point

A favourite with the locals is the Point Bar and Restaurant at Magilligan Point. Overlooking the dramatic Lough Foyle, this is a great place to stop at any time during the day. It serves up reliable and tasty meals from 12 - 9pm and does a mighty fine pint of Guinness for dessert. After your meal you can take a walk along the golden strand below and take in the magic around you.

It will give you plenty of time to start thinking about that diet! Or you can just walk it all off along the dramatic clifftops, beaches and dunes that are everywhere here.