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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: 152

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The Dock Cafe

Belfast

Address

ARC Retail, 2b Queens Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT3 9FD

Joachim@the-dock.org

Type

Type:

Delis, Food Markets and Farm Shops

The Dock Cafe opened its doors in March 2012 and has gone from strength to strength with a honest box policy, it offers a place to relax at a very low cost for everyone.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs Welcome Inside
Arcadia Delicatessen

Belfast

Address

378 Lisburn Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT9 6GL

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9038 1779

info@arcadiadeli.co.uk

Type

Type:

Delis, Food Markets and Farm Shops

As the oldest retail business on the Lisburn road, the Arcadia is a local institution having operated from the same unit since 1933. We at Arcadia pride ourselves in stocking local artisan products and the finest food from across the world,…

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
182 reviews
Castle Kitchen and Bar at Galgorm

Ballymena

Address

Castle Kitchen + Bar, 200 Galgorm Road, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT42 1HL

Telephone
+44 (0)28 2588 1001

dining@galgorm.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

The distinct warmth, and ambience of Castle Kitchen + Bar make it a space for all occasions and tastes. Serving up menus that fuse an eclectic mix with modern dining twists, daily chef specials and house-made desserts, Castle Kitchen + Bar offers a…
Special Offers
- December Lunches at Castle Kitchen & Bar
  From £28.95
  Experience the perfect festive lunch at Castle Kitchen + Bar, where inviting flavours and a warm, welcoming atmosphere set the scene for seasonal dining. Gather with friends and loved ones throughout December and enjoy the relaxed, festive setting that makes every meal feel special.
  Book Now
  More offers like this - Christmas & New Year
- Santa Sunday's at Castle Kitchen & Bar
  From £47.00 per Adult & £29.95 per Child
  Celebrate the magic of the season with Santa Sundays at Castle Kitchen + Bar. Enjoy a four-course festive lunch filled with seasonal flavours before meeting Santa himself, who'll be ready to receive Christmas wish lists and surprise little ones with a special gift. With hot chocolate and freshly baked cookies adding a sweet touch, it's the perfect way to make cherished memories with family and friends in a warm, festive setting.
  Book Now
  More offers like this - Christmas & New Year
- Christmas Day at Castle Kitchen & Bar
  From £180 per Adult & £70 per child
  Celebrate Christmas Day in the relaxed surroundings of Castle Kitchen + Bar. Enjoy a five-course traditional festive lunch accompanied by live music, cosy interiors, and plenty of seasonal cheer. Little ones will receive a special gift from Santa, making it a truly magical day for all. Booking required.
  Book Now
  More offers like this - Christmas & New Year
- Boxing Day at Castle Kitchen & Bar
  From £62 Adult I Child £30
  Continue the festive celebrations at Castle Kitchen + Bar with a four-course Boxing Day lunch served from 12–4pm. Enjoy a special visit from Santa and a gift for the little ones. Prefer to dine later? The À La Carte menu will be available from 5pm for those who prefer an alternative to the festive menu.
  Book Now
  More offers like this - Christmas & New Year
Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times
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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1134 reviews
OX

Belfast

Address

1 Oxford Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 3LA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9031 4121

info@oxbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

OX is a Michelin starred restaurant that offers relaxed dining overlooking the River Lagan, with menus designed to showcase excellent meats and sustainably sourced fish whilst equally careful attention is given to seasonal vegetables and fruit.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1725 reviews
Darcy’s Belfast

Belfast

Address

10 Bradbury Place, Belfast, County Antrim, BT7 1RS

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9032 4040

info@darcysbelfast.co.uk

Type

Type:

Restaurant

Darcy’s of Belfast is a family-run restaurant offering quality traditional food made with the most local of ingredients.

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Elephant Rock Cocktail Bar

Portrush

Address

17 Lansdowne Crescent, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8AY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7087 8787

info@elephantrockhotel.co.uk

Type

Type:

Bar

The cocktail bar at Elephant Rock Hotel exudes a chic and sophisticated ambiance, offering panoramic ocean views that perfectly complement its dramatic Art Deco interior. Afternoon Tea is served in the cocktail bar 12:00 -16:00 on Fridays and…

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Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

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

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
317 reviews
Cafe Vic-Ryn

Lisburn

Address

The House of Vic-Ryn, Moira Road, Lisburn, County Antrim, BT28 2RF

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9262 2649

hello@cafevicryn.co.uk

Type

Type:

Café

The perfect pit-stop during a shopping session, Cafe Vic-Ryn is also a great destination for everything from brunch, lunch, coffee and dinner.
Everything is made in-house, using local produce sourced from local farms and suppliers.

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Cups & Carriages @ Whitehead Railway Museum

Castleview Road, 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
33 reviews
Dobbins Inn Bar & Restaurant

Carrickfergus

Address

6/8 High Street, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 7AF

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 1905

enquiries@dobbinsinn.co.uk

Type

Type:

Restaurant

Dobbins Inn in the heart of Carrickfergus offers warm hospitality, traditional Irish and modern European dishes, a cosy bar lounge, dog-friendly beer garden, and popular breakfasts in its central High Street location.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1603 reviews
Coppi

Belfast

Address

2 St Anne's Square, Cathedral Quarter, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2LR

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 90 311 959

info@coppi.co.uk

Type

Type:

Restaurant

Coppi restaurant, located right in the heart of the buzzing Cathedral Quarter, is Belfast’s first cichetti bacari/restaurant inspired by those found in Venice and named after cycling legend Angelo Fausto Coppi.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
373 reviews
Lavery's Belfast

Belfast

Address

Laverys Gin Palace, Bradbury Place, Belfast, County Antrim, BT7 1RS

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9087 1106

info@laverysbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Bar

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.

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
423 reviews
Parisien

Belfast

Address

Cleaver House, 56 Donegal Place, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 5GA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9590 4338

info@cafeparisienbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

Parisien is the place to relish in the moment with a chic yet comfortable ambience in the heart of Belfast. We're a cosmopolitan location perfect for a lunch or dinner date in the city, a catch up with friends over afternoon tea.
Special Offers
- Galentines Sip n' Sparkle
  From £50 per person
  Get together with your friends at Parisiens for their Galentines Sip n’ Sparkle with Apiphany Jewellery. Enjoy a glass of Prosecco on arrival, then settle in on Thursday 12th February for a fun-filled jewellery-making workshop accompanied by nibbles. £50pp - Includes workshop, personalised necklace, glass of Prosecco and chef’s nibbles. Thursday 12th February. 18:00 - 21:00
  Book Now
  More offers like this - Experiences & Attractions
Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times
More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
491 reviews
Kiwi's Brew Bar

Portrush

Address

47 Main Street, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8BL

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7082 2402

kris@kiwisbrewbar.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Something is most definitely brewing in Portrush. Beer is making a quiet and classy comeback.

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
97 reviews
Follow Coffee Co

Ballymena

Address

21-23 Greenvale Street, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT43 6AN

Telephone
07745017007

followcoffeeco@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Café

Freshly roasted locally produced speciality coffee and food in comfortable surroundings within the heart of Ballymena.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs Welcome Inside
Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Off site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
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!

More Info
The Lookout Bar and Restaurant

Ballycastle

Address

39 Dunamallaght Road, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6PF

Telephone
02820510000

info@thesalthousehotel.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

Discover The Lookout, the culinary gem on the North Coast in Ballycastle. Opened in summer 2023, this restaurant offers a stunning view and a menu that fuses beloved Italian classics with local ingredients.
Enjoy stone-baked pizzas, tantalising…

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1728 reviews
Bushmills Inn Restaurant

Bushmills

Address

9 Dunluce Road, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8QG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2073 3000

info@bushmillsinn.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

The Bushmills Inn Restaurant is situated in an enviable location a stone’s throw from Royal Portrush Golf Club, The Giant’s Causeway, Old Bushmills Distillery and Dunluce Castle, it is one of the most idyllic places to eat in Bushmills.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
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.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Bistro at the Courthouse

Bushmills

Address

75 Main Street, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8QD

Telephone
0044 7776192185

trudy@bistroatthecourthouse.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

Bistro at the Courthouse serves local produce, homemade breads like sourdough and focaccia, with local beers and fine wines.

Dates

From:

5 June 2026to31 Oct 2026Various Opening Times

From:

5 June 2026to31 Oct 2026Various Opening Times

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
159 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