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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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The Causerie at The Europa Hotel

Belfast

Address

Europa Hotel Belfast, Great Victoria Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT2 7AP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9027 1066

causerie@eur.hastinghotels.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

With some of the best views in Belfast, this bustling contemporary bistro has provenance stamped all over its menu. The a la carte menu is available all day. Signature dishes include Glenarm Organic Roast Salmon and Northern Irish Dexter Sirloins.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
985 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
16 reviews
Cairndhu Golf Club Restaurant

Larne

Address

192 Coast Road, Ballygally, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 2QG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2858 3324

office@cairndhugolfclub.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

Experience unforgettable dining amidst breathtaking views at Cairndhu Golf Club's restaurant on the Causeway Coastal Route. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner, monthly Steak Night, and elegant surroundings for any occasion. Reserve your table now!

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
166 reviews
Dining at Ballygally Halfway House Hotel

Larne

Address

352 Coast Road, Ballygally, Larne, Co. Antrim, BT40 2RA

Telephone
+44 (0) 7808 193 842

halfwayhousehotel@btconnect.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

The family run Ballygally Halfway House Hotel, nestled on the Causeway Coastal Route, offers historic charm, panoramic views, and warm hospitality. Enjoy delicious food, including gluten-free and kids options, in the Maidens Lounge Bar.

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Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Room / Unit Features
- TV In Bedrooms
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1663 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.

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Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Bushmills Townhouse Restaurant

Bushmills

Address

45 Main Street, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8QA

Telephone
+44(0)2820032510

manager@bushmillstownhouse.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

Enjoy a modern dining experience at The Bushmills Townhouse, where locally sourced ingredients meet Italian flair. Savour light bites during the day, à la carte dinners in the evening, and hearty Sunday lunches in a superb location on the Causeway…

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
256 reviews
Glenarm Castle Tea Room

Glenarm

Address

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

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2884 1984

glenarmmanager@groundcoffee.net

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…

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
51 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.

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Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
482 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.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
5 reviews
Avenue 22 Bar and Restaurant at Clayton Hotel Belfast

Belfast

Address

Clayton Hotel Belfast, 22 Ormeau Avenue, Belfast, County Antrim, BT2 8HS

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9032 8511

Info.belfast@claytonhotels.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

Dine in our Avenue 22 restaurant at Clayton Hotel Belfast which uses the finest locally sourced ingredients. Alternatively, relax and unwind with a bar snack in the lounge.

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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
124 reviews
The Creamery Can

Glarryford

Address

Dundermot House, 30 Station Road, Glarryford, County Antrim, BT44 9RA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2568 5357

alyson@thecreamerycan.com

Type

Type:

Café

The Creamery Can, is located in Glarryford, en-route from Ballymena to the Causeway and is a quaint stone barn café, celebrating artisan food, local produce and local community with fresh home cooked goodness served daily. Perfect for bakes and…

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The Salthouse Bar and Restaurant

Ballycastle

Address

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

Telephone
02820510000

info@thesalthousehotel.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

With stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, The Salthouse Bar and Restaurant offers the perfect setting to eat, drink, and relax. Enjoy everything from morning coffees to classic cocktails and a variety of delicious dishes for lunch and dinner. Their…

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
472 reviews
Bert's Jazz Bar

Belfast

Address

The Merchant Hotel, 16 Skipper Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2ZY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9026 2713

berts@themerchanthotel.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Belfast’s and Northern Ireland's first authentic Jazz Bar offering Live Jazz seven nights a week - located within the elegant Merchant Hotel, Berts offers great live entertainment and mouth watering food.

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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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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
498 reviews
Ben Madigan's Bar & Kitchen

Belfast

Address

169 - 175 Cavehill Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT15 5BP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9692 2009

info@benmadigansbar.com

Type

Type:

Bar

Join us in Ben Madigans at the foot of Cavehill, belfast home of friendly atmosphere and award winning local food and drink, sure to make you want to stay a while at your new local.

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Facilities

Catering
- Dogs Accepted Inside
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
131 reviews
Tullyglass Hotel Dining Experience

Ballymena

Address

Galgorm Road, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT42 1HJ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2565 2639

info@tullyglass.com

Type

Type:

Restaurant

At Tullyglass Hotel we offer our guests both informal and formal dining options throughout the day. From early morning coffee with freshly baked scones, to a gourmet dining experience, all of our food is prepared, using locally sourced produce.

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

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
2491 reviews
James St.

Belfast

Address

21 James Street South, Belfast, County Antrim, BT2 7GA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9060 0700

hello@jamesst.co.uk

Type

Type:

Restaurant

James St is a casual and contemporary, brick-walled restaurant specialising in chargrilled and aged steaks. The charcoal grill still plays centre stage, cooking not just some of the best steaks and prime cuts Northern Ireland has to offer but also…

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Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- 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 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

More Info
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,…

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available