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.
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.
On the bay in Portballintrae
Located on the seafront in Portballintrae, The Porthole bar & Restaurant is situated within the Bayview Hotel. They offer the best food in town from fresh bay chowder to Guiness braised beef, all prepared with high-quality ingredients and cooked to perfection. Relax and watch the waves crashing on the shore, the boats coming and going, and the people walking along the beach with a stunning backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.
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.
Fantastic flavours in Portrush
The Ramore offers a unique range of restaurants and bars serving delicious dishes that gaurantee to satisfy every preference: The Wine Bar is renowned for its fantastic tasting fresh food and must-see dessert station. The Mermaid Kitchen and Bar has a casual, relaxed style offering fresh fish & local specials. Neptune and Prawn serves asian inspired dishes which are perfect for sharing, along with an upstairs cocktail bar with amazing sunset views. If you prefer italian Coast Pizzeria offers fresh stone-baked pizza and authentic pasta dishes. Harbour Bistro features a more contemporary menu served in traditional surroundings with Wood fired grilled meats and famous steaks. And last but by no means least, Harbour Bar, one of the oldest bars in Portrush, for a pint of Guinness and live entertainment every evening.
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.
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.
