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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: 154

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The National Grande Café

Belfast

Address

62 - 68 High Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2BE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9031 1130

info@thenationalbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Bar

From coffee and fresh pastries on the go, delicious soups and sandwiches for lunch and exquisite evening meals with wine or cocktails – there is something to satisfy every palate at any time of day. We also have one of Belfast's biggest beer gardens.

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
188 reviews
The Bank House Whitehead

Whitehead

Address

12 Edward Road, Whitehead, County Antrim, BT38 9QB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 3021

thebankhouse12@yahoo.com

Type

Type:

Café

The Bank House café and gift shop is a lively, warm, inviting destination, specialising in good, quality, local food, crafts, art, live music and craic. Find this hidden gem in the centre of Whitehead, on the beautiful Causeway Coastal Route.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
99 reviews
Katy Jane’s Bar & Beer Garden @ Curran Court Hotel

Larne

Address

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

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2827 5505

info@currancourthotel.co.uk

Type

Type:

Bar

Katy Jane’s Bar & Beer Garden at Curran Court Hotel near Larne port and on the Causeway Coastal Route offers a lively, walk-in experience with casual dining, diverse drinks, live music, sports, and an all-season outdoor terrace. Enjoy memorable…

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
212 reviews
Dining at The Harbourview Hotel

Carnlough

Address

20 Harbour Road, The Harbourview Hotel, Carnlough, County Antrim, BT44 0EU

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2888 5255

reception@theharbourviewhotel.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

The Harbourview Hotel invites you to experience an area of outstanding natural beauty, nestled by the sea in a village called Carnlough. Immerse yourself in the luxurious surroundings, spectacular beach walks, dolphin spotting on the Sea of Moyle…

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Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- Off site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wi-fi available
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
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
54 reviews
Halfway House Country Pub

Broughshane

Address

143 Carnlough Road, Broughshane, County Antrim, BT43 7JW

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2568 4225

info@eventbarsolutions.co.uk

Type

Type:

Bar

Historic country pub and restaurant located halfway between Ballymena and Carnlough at the foot of impressive Slemish Mountain, offering a friendly welcome to the weary traveller and locals alike serving great food and drink!

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
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
112 reviews
The Garden Restaurant at Ballygally Castle

Ballygally

Address

274 Coast Road, Ballygally, Co Antrim, BT40 2QZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2858 1066

dm@bgc.hastingshotels.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

The Garden Restaurant situated within Ballygally Castle Hotel has the character and charm you would expect of a 17th Century Castle.

More Info
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
177 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
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 2026to31 Dec 2026Various Opening Times

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
483 reviews
Beechlawn House Hotel & Restaurant

Belfast

Address

4 Dunmurry Lane, Belfast, County Antrim, BT17 9RR

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9060 2010

info@beechlawnhotel.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

The Beechlawn House Hotel is ideally situated in the suburb of Dunmurry, less than a ten minute drive from Belfast and Lisburn city centres. A busy eatery with a great reputation for freshly prepared traditional and modern cuisine. 5* FSA Rating.

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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
238 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!

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wi-fi available
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

From:

1 Jan 2026to28 Feb 2026Various Opening Times

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Limelight 1 & Limelight 2

Belfast

Address

17 Ormeau Avenue, Belfast, County Antrim, BT2 8HD

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9032 7007

info@limelightbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Established as one of the most famous venues for live music in the country, The Limelight Complex has recently enjoyed a multi-million pound refurbishment. The venue, now encompasses The Limelight & Limelight 2 venues, as well as Katy's Bar.

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
998 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.

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
184 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…

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2026to31 Dec 2026Various Opening Times

From:

1 Jan 2026to31 Dec 2026Various Opening Times

From:

1 Jan 2026to31 Dec 2026Various Opening Times

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
53 reviews
The Crosskeys Inn

Toome

Address

40 Grange Road, Ardnaglass, Toome, County Antrim, BT41 3QB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7965 0694

info@crosskeys-inn.com

Type

Type:

Bar

The Crosskeys Inn c.1654 is the oldest thatched pub in Ireland and one of Ireland's most famous traditional Irish music pubs. You can hear traditional music most Saturday nights and impromptu sessions on some Friday and Sundays.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
561 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