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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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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…

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

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

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
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
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
191 reviews
Duke of York

Belfast

Address

7-11 Commercial Court, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2NB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9024 1062

info@dukeofyorkbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Nestled along a narrow-cobbled alleyway in the historic Half Bap area, the Duke of York offers a traditional Belfast welcome of craic, music and humour.

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
10 reviews
The Fiddler's Rest Bar & Restaurant

Portglenone

Address

71 Main Street, Portglenone, County Antrim, BT44 8HR

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2548 3780

info@fiddlersrestbar.com

Type

Type:

Bar

The Fiddler's Rest in Portglenone offers authentic Irish hospitality with tasty meals, local brews, cosy fireplaces, lively beer gardens, and live music—creating a welcoming, unforgettable pub experience.

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Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Parking (free)
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
224 reviews
Dunsilly Bar & Grill

Antrim

Address

20 Dunsillly Road, Antrim, County Antrim, BT41 2JH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9446 2929

info@dunsillyhotel.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

The Dunsilly Hotel serves food all day everyday, from the coffee bar with pastries and light snacks to an extensive grill menu served in the grill. Using the best local produce and trained in allergy awareness there is something for everyone.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- On site parking
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1165 reviews
Fish City

Belfast

Address

33 Ann Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 4EB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9023 1000

events@fish-city.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

At Belfast's first sustainable seafood restaurant, you will enjoy an extensive menu of some of the finest seafood at Fish City, including fresh, locally sourced Carlingford oysters, Strangford Lough mussels, and the much loved and award-winning…

Dates

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
The Pocket

Belfast

Address

68 Upper Church Lane, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 4QL

hello@thepocket.coffee

Type

Type:

Café

A firm favourite with locals, The Pocket serves high quality fresh food and great coffee in a chilled atmosphere. They have a no booking policy, so prepare to queue (although it moves quite quickly).

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
568 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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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
The Belfast Empire

Belfast

Address

40 – 42 Botanic Avenue, Belfast, County Antrim, BT7 1JQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9024 9276

info@thebelfastempire.com

Type

Type:

Bar

A converted church in the heart of Belfast, boasting the city's most diverse offering of entertainment. Regular gigs include the Comedy Club, Blues Club and Supper Club.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
19 reviews
The Front Page Bar

Ballymena

Address

9 Ballymoney Street, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT43 6AL

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2564 1953

info@thefrontpagebar.com

Type

Type:

Bar

A “traditional-meets-modern” award winning and innovative pub in the centre of Ballymena, which offers a friendly welcome and has established itself as a popular drinks and entertainment venue with celebrities, locals and visitors of all ages.

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
72 reviews
The Clockhouse Restaurant @ Leighinmohr House Hotel

Ballymena

Address

Leighinmohr House Hotel, Leighinmohr Avenue, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT42 2AN

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2565 2313

info@leighinmohrhotel.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

The Clockhouse in the Leighinmohr House Hotel, Ballymena is one of County Antrim’s leading eateries. Fronted by renowned chef William Mills, the Clockhouse brings the very best of locally sourced produce together to make dishes you'll truly love.

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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
Fire, Feast & Folklore

Newtowncrommelin

Address

15A Craigdunloof Road, Newtowncrommelin, County Antrim, BT43 6RQ

Telephone
+ 44 (0)7857 579710

willowandlore@outlook.com

Type

Type:

Food Experiences

Capture the spirit of the past through Fire, Feast and Folklore, authentic Irish fire side feasts and experiences on this Heritage Farm in the Antrim hills.

Dates

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
The Spaniard

Belfast

Address

The Spaniard Bar, 3 Skipper Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2DZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9023 2448

spaniardbelfast@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Hidden within the Cathedral Quarter is this little gem of a bar. We pride ourselves in offering the most intimate atmosphere along with an outstanding selection of Rum. Join us and sip on our famous Dark n Stormy or Extraordinary! Not to be missed!

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
449 reviews
Malmaison Bar and Grill

Belfast

Address

34-38 Victoria Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 3GH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9600 1405

jlynch@malmaison.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

The heart and soul of every Malmaison. Iconic dishes are prepared with a modern twist and served with passion and personality, including sublime steaks, the awesome MalBurger, locally inspired blackboard specials and a mouthwatering wine list.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Open 17:00 - 21:00

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
111 reviews
The Olderfleet Bar & Garden Venue

Larne

Address

42 Fleet Street, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 1BA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2827 2007

Type

Type:

Restaurant

The Olderfleet in Larne blends historic charm with modern flair, offering award-winning dining, live entertainment, a dog-friendly garden, and stylish event spaces - perfect for locals, visitors, and special celebrations alike.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

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

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
176 reviews
The Dairy

Gleno

Address

5 Waterfall Road, Gleno, County Antrim, BT40 3LE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2827 8662

thedairy.gleno@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Café

Rustic style bistro, butchers and farm shop set in the heart of the Gleno valley, within a few minutes walk of Gleno waterfall and an easy drive from Larne or Carrickfergus with a delicious menu and large range of local produce for sale.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

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

Establishment Features
- Wi-fi available
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
264 reviews
Glenarm Castle Tea Room

Glenarm

Address

Glenarm Estate, 2 Castle Lane, Glenarm, County Antrim, BT44 0BQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2884 1984

Samantha.glenarmtearoom@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Tea Room/Coffee Shop

Step into the heart of Glenarm Castle's estate and discover our cosy Tea Room, nestled in the historic Mushroom House within the enchanting Walled Garden. Open daily, it's a rare gem in Northern Ireland, offering visitors the unique experience of…

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking