With not one but two Michelin starred Belfast restaurants, and numerous award winning eateries and producers, Northern Ireland’s food experiences are most firmly on the gastronomic map.
This autumn, tantalise the taste buds with a foodie-inspired short break to Northern Ireland and whet the appetite with some award-winning food and drink.
Earning its Michelin Star in 2015, Ox Belfast, with its stunning riverside location, offers views across to the Titanic Quarter and a fantastic array of flavoursome dishes and fine wines. With a changing seasonal menu, crafted with only the freshest of ingredients, Deane’s Eipic – awarded their Michelin Star in 2015 – is the creation of renowned Belfast restauranteur, Michael Deane.
Retaining its Michelin Bib Gourmand status in 2016, Northern Ireland’s James Street South, Deanes at Queen’s and Home in Belfast, alongside Fontana in Holywood and the Old Schoolhouse Inn in Lisbane, County Down are proof that our food scene is best in class.
Newcomers to the Bib Gourmand accolade, Wine & Brine in Moira, County Armagh received the title for the first time and was recently crowned the UK’s Best Local Restaurant by The Good Food Guide. With a keenly priced menu and locally sourced produce a core part of the restaurant’s offering, diners can expect a showcase of pickled, brined and fermented foods served with a unique approach.
Joining the award winning eateries are seven of Northern Ireland’s pubs, six of whom hail from County Down. So if you’re out and about in the county check out the Pheasant in Annahilt, the Parson’s Nose and Plough Inn, Hillsborough, Pier 36 in Donaghadee, Balloo House in Killinchy and the Poacher’s Pocket in Comber. Also included in the Michelin Eating Out In Pubs Guide 2017 is Billy Andy’s, near Larne.
Award Winning Food Experiences
In Armagh city you’ll also find 4 Vicar’s Hill, winner of the Georgina Campbell’s Casual Dining Restaurant of the Year 2017. Situated in a beautiful converted Georgian listed building, and adjacent to 5 Vicar’s Hill – a Grade A listed building that houses a number of historic collections – the restaurant serves the best of local produce in a ‘simple and elegant way’.
We love to give visitors an authentic taste of Northern Ireland – it’s just in our nature! Ask anyone about a food experience in Northern Ireland and St George’s Market in Belfast is sure to crop up in conversation. Recently awarded ‘Best Market’ at the annual Observer Food Monthly Awards, it’s the ultimate foodie hotspot.
So what are you waiting for? However you chose to tickle your taste buds in Northern Ireland, just make sure your appetite is in tow! Book your foodie-inspired short break today.