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The Bushmills Inn
County Antrim

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Food & Drink in Antrim

Visitors to Antrim are spoilt for choice when it comes to food and drink. While Belfast is a lively city, it’s also surrounded by small market towns and villages that are awash with artisan food makers and top-class restaurants that pride themselves on using fresh local produce.

New food discoveries in Newtownabbey

A mere fifteen minutes north of Belfast you’ll come across Sleepy Hollow in Newtownabbey. This old inn serves fresh Irish food with a modern twist and has garnered high praise as one of the best restaurants in Antrim among those in the know back in the big smoke.

Much of the food served at Sleepy Hollow comes from a farm just twenty minutes up the road in the picturesque village of Gleno. The farm in question sits beside a favourite local watering hole called Billy Andy’s, and yes you’ve guessed it, they are owned by the same people. With its peat fires, low ceilings, fine selection of beers and whiskies, Billy Andy’s is the perfect spot to sit back, relax and enjoy the Saturday Irish Music Session. Of course, if you’re sticking around the menu has quite a bit to offer too.

Gleno is also home to The Dairy, a farm shop and café famous for its delicious pancakes, Belfast Baps and luscious milkshakes filled with ice cream from the multi award-winning Maud’s in Carrickfergus.

Ice-cream and more in Carrickfergus

John Wilson opened his first ice cream shop in 1982, Maud's, naming it after his mother as a Mother’s Day gift. The shop remains as popular as ever. Those wishing to sample more gelato can do so at the nearby Castello Italia. This spot is beautifully laid out, very comfortable and overlooks the shores of Belfast Lough. It offers up classic Italian primi like risotto and pasta and offers great mains like rabbit and pan-fried seabass.

Enlightened food in Whitehead

The Lighthouse Bistro in nearby Whitehead is one of those unassuming spots that you really only want to tell your closest friends about. We consider you friends. Sitting just off the village's scenic promenade this small, cosy, award-winning family run restaurant makes everything from scratch. That includes the handmade pasta, the homemade bread, and the health range of pickled produce. Smoked pork belly and lamb shank are regular features on the menu, but it all depends on what’s in season.

The bar to be in in Ballygally

Don’t be fooled by the simple interior of Mattie’s Meeting House. This Ballygally bar is a favourite with the locals and has been in the hospitality game since the early 1800’s. They still know what they are at and they like to keep it simple. Whether you’re just stopping in for a pint or Boxer Jim’s Guinness Pie, you’ll get a warm welcome, a bit of craic and some great intimate live music.

Cosy in Cushendun

If you’re on the lookout for somewhere even more intimate, then Mary McBride’s in the scenic village of Cushendun might be the place for you. This is the perfect spot to wind down after a day trekking the Antrim coast and the location is beautiful. The pub itself is tiny but big on atmosphere. It is also host to a rather recent curio. In 2016 the famous tree-lined avenue known as the Dark Hedges were badly damaged by a storm. Many of the trees were destroyed but instead of being disposed of, the wood was used to create ten Game of Thrones® doors which are now housed inside pubs and restaurants dotted around Northern Ireland. The door in this spot tells the story of season six.

Delicious bellyfulls in Bushmills

On the town’s Main Street you’ll find the beautiful Tartine restaurant with its 3 beautifully appointed, interconnecting areas each hosting a contemporary selection of local artists original paintings and prints. The lighting is low, the atmosphere romantic and the service attentive and friendly. Best of all Tartine are committed to selecting ingredients that are both local and seasonal for the creation of dishes that are refined, yet simple and full of flavour.

Clocking in at Ballymena

A little further west in Ballymena you’ll find The Clockhouse in the stately Leghinmohr House. Chef William Mills keeps it seasonal and again only uses local produce. Expect to see the likes of oxtail terrine and venison on the menu. And you can get it all for next to nothing if you go for their aptly named Beat the Clock offering - their version of the early bird.

A tavern for all in Toome

About fifteen minutes south of Ballymena is the wonderful Crosskeys Inn in Toome. This tiny thatched tavern dates back to 1654 making it the oldest pub of its kind on the island of Ireland. This place oozes old world charm. Its small rooms are heated by peat fires and its worn-down floors have witnessed many late night stomps to Irish music. There are regular sessions to this day and we’d recommend you try to catch one if you can.

With so much food to savour and so much drink to swill you’ll need another holiday just to work it all off. Don’t worry, we have that covered too.

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.

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Number of results: 147

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
560 reviews
Kelly's Cellars

Belfast

Address

30-32 Bank Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 1HL

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 90246058

Type

Type:

Bar

In the heart of Belfast's city centre, this pub has maintained the friendly atmosphere of over 250 years ago. With a long tradition of quality beer and fine food, Kelly's Cellars offers all customers a chance to enjoy the perfect pint of Guinness.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
598 reviews
Fratelli at Galgorm

Ballymena

Address

Galgorm Resort, 136 Fenaghy Road, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT42 1EA

Telephone
+44 (0)28 2588 2590

dining@galgorm.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

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

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

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The Dirty Onion

Belfast

Address

3 Hill Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2LA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9024 3712

info@dirtyonion.com

Type

Type:

Bar

The Dirty Onion is Belfast's oldest building, dating back to 1780, the building was used as a bonded spirit warehouse from 1921. It was then known as ‘STACK N’ – a reference to its position on the north side of Waring Street.

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Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
The Farmshop @ jam at the doorstep

Armoy

Address

77 Ballykenver Road, Armoy, County Antrim, BT53 8RP

Telephone
+44 (0) 7880593492

jamatthedoorstep@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Delis, Food Markets and Farm Shops

I produce my own jams, chutneys, curds, caramel sauce, Christmas puddings & sticky toffee puddings all from my farmhouse kitchen, along with locally made produce. We also have workshops where you can learn how to make lemon curd and jams and more!

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Cups & Carriages

Whitehead

Address

Whitehead Railway Museum, Excursion Station, Castleview Road, Whitehead, County Antrim, BT38 9NA

Telephone
+ 44 (0) 28 9358 6200

cupsandcarriages@steamtrainsireland.com

Type

Type:

Café

Step into nostalgia at the Cups & Carriages Tea Room in Whitehead Railway Museum on the Causeway Coastal Route – a casual haven for all. Whether you're museum-hopping or seeking a chill spot with friends, our menu offers tasty delights, including…

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Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
920 reviews
Harry's Restaurant

Cushendall

Address

10-12 Mill Street, Cushendall, County Antrim, BT44 0RR

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2177 2022

hello@harryscushendall.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

Situated in the heart of the Nine Glens of Antrim serving the finest sustainable local seafood and beef that Northern Ireland has to offer and a range of exceptional wines in a relaxing setting.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
236 reviews
The Lighthouse Bakes

Whitehead

Address

2 Marine Avenue, Whitehead, County Antrim, BT38 9QN

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9337 2447

bskcateringinfo@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

Freshly baked buns, sourdough loaves and cakes are what you'll find at this delicious micro bakery in Whitehead. Why not sign up for one if their supper clubs and experience something delicious!

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Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
656 reviews
Novelli at City Quays

Belfast

Address

90 Donegall Quay, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 3FE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9531 3191

cityquays@novellirestaurants.co.uk

Type

Type:

Restaurant

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.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Open 12:00 - 21:00

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
779 reviews
Deanes at Queens

Belfast

Address

1 College Gardens, Belfast, County Antrim, BT9 6BQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9038 2111

deanesatqueens@michaeldeane.co.uk

Type

Type:

Restaurant

Deanes at Queens on College Gardens can be found in the heart of the University Quarter, overlooking Methodist College and adjacent to Botanic Gardens and the Ulster Museum. Deanes at Queens is a short walk from Queens University Belfast and many…

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1558 reviews
AM:PM

Belfast

Address

38-44 Upper Arthur Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 4GH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9024 9009

arthurstreet@ampmbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

The combination of bohemian elegance, sumptuous cuisine and unparalleled service make AMPM restaurant one of the best eateries in the city.

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The Nook At The Giant's Causeway

Bushmills

Address

48 Causeway Road, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8SU

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2073 2993

ross@portnaboe.co.uk

Type

Type:

Restaurant

In an historic listed building, dating from 1850's, built as the original school house; this sympathetically restored and renovated edifice encapsulates all the original Victorian features. Found right at the entrance to the Giant's Causeway.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
553 reviews
The Adair Bar & Grill

Ballymena

Address

1-7 Ballymoney Road, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT43 5BS

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2565 3674

info@adairarmshotel.co.uk

Type

Type:

Restaurant

An extensive menu of fresh locally sourced, quality ingredients served in our spacious, relaxing Grill Bar.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- On site parking
- Parking (free)
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
The Greedy Gannet @ The Gobbins Visitor Centre

Islandmagee

Address

c/o The Gobbins Visitor Centre, 68 Middle Road, Islandmagee, County Antrim, BT40 3SL

Telephone
+44 (0) 7759 277750

thegreedygannet1@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Café

Set in the heart of Islandmagee and within the world class Gobbins Visitor Centre, The Greedy Gannet offers hearty breakfasts, tasty lunches, sweet treats, and drinks in a welcoming atmosphere. You'll deserve to treat yourself, if you've just…

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Cabaret Supper Club

Belfast

Address

38-42 Upper Arthur Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 4GH

Telephone
02890249009

marketingandpr@cabaretbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Night Life

Step into the lavish embrace of Cabaret Supper Club, where every guest is a star amid the glitz reminiscent of 1920s Hollywood. Immerse yourself in an environment brimming with live melodies, tantalising burlesque, captivating drag performances,…

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Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
The Cloth Ear

Belfast

Address

16 Skipper Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2DZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9023 4888

clothear@themerchanthotel.com

Type

Type:

Bar

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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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
988 reviews
McHugh’s Bar & Restaurant

Belfast

Address

29-31 Queen’s Square, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 3FG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9050 9999

info@mchughsbar.com

Type

Type:

Bar

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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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
92 reviews
Pavilion Bar

Belfast

Address

The Pavilion Bar, 296 Ormeau Road, Belfast, County Down, BT7 2GB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9028 3283

info@pavilionbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Established in 1899, The Pavilion or "The Big House" draws its clientele from all over the city and beyond, and is a must for all who wish to experience a traditional Belfast pub with three floors, three bars, in one Big House with five-star food.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
157 reviews
Middletown Coffee Co.

Ballymena

Address

60-64 Lower Mill Street, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT43 6AH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2564 8718

info@middletowncoffee.co

Type

Type:

Tea Room/Coffee Shop

'A must visit location when on a Northern Ireland Coffee Tour’ - Middletown is more than quality food and service – it's a place for people to meet up, relax and be at home.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Off site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
97 reviews
Curran Court Hotel Restaurant

Larne

Address

6 Redlands Road, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 1FD

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2827 5505

info@currancourthotel.co.uk

Type

Type:

Restaurant

For over four decades, The Restaurant at Curran Court Hotel has been a cherished culinary haven in Larne, celebrated for its locally renowned well-selected menu, home cooking, and friendly professional staff. Our chefs lovingly curate modern takes…

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
62 reviews
The Spirit Circle

Belfast

Address

Above The National, 62 High Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2BE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9045 7723

hello@thespiritcircle.co.uk

Type

Type:

Food Experiences

Discover Belfast’s most unique, radical and unexpected drinks experiences, Belfast By The Glass and Sensorium.

More Info