Il Pirata

About

Simple rustic, tasty Italian food is the order of the day at this popular and casual East Belfast eatery, inspired by the Italian restaurants on Manhattan's Lower East side and named after veteran cyclist Marco Pantani (‘The Pirate').

The restaurant is large, warm, bright and friendly. The space a stripped back and eclectic blend of mismatched furniture, white tiles, exposed beams and single hanging bulbs. At night time the lights are dimmed and candles lit, and the kitchen and bar area in full view adds to the buzzing atmosphere.
The kitchen at Il Pirata prides itself in offering guests simple, fresh, well cooked, rustic Italian food and, as one reviewer quoted ‘ the menu is a thing of beauty’.

Dishes range from a mouth-watering variety of Venetian style cichetti to share, to local’s favourite, hearty duck ragu served with homemade gnocchi, spinach and parmesan. Or why not try the Portavogie prawn & tarragon tortellini, lemon & basil butter, the perfect fusion of Ireland and Italy. All sour dough breads, fresh pastas and desserts are made daily in the restaurant’s production kitchen.

For those who enjoy a cocktail to start, or finish, the night off, you’ll be spoiled for choice. The house speciality Il Pirata Basil Lemonade perhaps or maybe one from the list of Prosecco cocktails, such as the Spiced Pear Bellini. Or if beer is more your tipple you can choose between our own Il Pirata lager, local brew Maggies Leap or Italian favourite Peroni on draft.

The service at Il Pirata reflects the restaurant’s ethos. It’s relaxed, no fuss and inviting and we genuinely look forward to welcoming all visitors, regular and new to our little piece of Italy in the East of the city.