DINING in Ireland’s county ANTRIM

Antrim’s dining scene is increasingly focused on eco-friendly practices, with restaurants like Tartine and Sleepy Hollow emphasizing kitchen gardens and local produce.

Belfast Dominance: Most fine dining and casual options are concentrated in Belfast, reflecting its status as a culinary hub. Coastal areas like Bushmills and Cushendun offer unique, tourism-driven dining experiences.

Fine Dining

Tartine (Belfast, Distillery District). Located in Belfast’s vibrant Distillery District, Tartine offers a sophisticated yet relaxed fine dining experience with three interconnecting dining areas showcasing local art. Diners can expect modern European cuisine with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients, served in a contemporary setting with attentive service. The ambiance is elegant but approachable, ideal for special occasions. Crab and langoustine ravioli, beef bitterballen (crispy Dutch-style meatballs), and a visually stunning lettuce salad are highlights, emphasizing depth of flavor and artistic presentation. Tartine continues to build on its reputation under chef Alex Greene and manager Bronagh McCormick, formerly of Belfast’s Eipic. Expect continued emphasis on sustainability with locally sourced produce, possibly expanding their kitchen garden offerings.
OX Belfast (Belfast, City Centre). A Michelin-starred gem, OX offers an intimate, refined dining experience with an open kitchen where chefs engage with diners. The focus is on seasonal, local ingredients, delivering precise, balanced dishes in a stylish, industrial-chic setting. Ideal for those seeking a high-end culinary journey. The menu changes frequently, but past highlights include côte de boeuf with white asparagus and Jersey Royals, showcasing elevated, savory flavors. Vegetarian options like spiced roast cauliflower with hummus are also notable. OX remains a staple in Belfast’s fine dining scene, with chef Stephen Toman likely introducing new seasonal menus. Expect innovative dishes leveraging local suppliers, possibly with a focus on sustainability trends like zero-waste cooking.
The Muddlers Club (Belfast, Cathedral Quarter). This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a sleek, modern dining experience with an open kitchen and counter seating for an immersive feel. The focus is on creative, ingredient-driven dishes using the region’s finest produce, served in a vibrant yet elegant atmosphere. Langoustine, mussel, and monkfish paella and potato and truffle croquettes are standout small plates, reflecting a balance of bold flavors and refined techniques. The Muddlers Club is featured in the 2025 101 Great Irish Restaurants guide, suggesting continued excellence. New small-plate menus or collaborations with local artisans may emerge, aligning with Belfast’s growing food scene.
Deanes at Queens (Belfast, University Quarter). A sophisticated yet welcoming venue, Deanes at Queens combines fine dining with a relaxed vibe in a bright, modern setting. Diners can expect meticulously crafted dishes with a focus on local seafood and meats, paired with an extensive wine list. Chargrilled Fermanagh ribeye steak with vegetables and red wine jus is a decadent favorite, showcasing rich, local flavors. As a consistent player in Antrim’s fine dining scene, Deanes will introduce new tasting menus or wine pairings in 2025, capitalizing on its reputation for quality and innovation.
Lir (Coleraine, Coastal Area). Led by Great Menu winner Stevie McCarry, Lir is a seafood-focused fine dining destination with a modern, coastal-inspired setting. Diners enjoy creative dishes in a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere, with views complementing the meal. Cod collar schnitzel, ling kofta with burnt apple sauce, and smoked dogfish corndog highlight McCarry’s innovative approach to seafood. Lir plans summer music nights on its terrace, enhancing the dining experience with live entertainment. Expect new seafood dishes leveraging the Japanese konro grill.

Casual Dining

Sleepy Hollow (Newtownabbey, 15 Minutes North of Belfast). This historic inn offers a cozy, modern take on Irish cuisine, with ingredients sourced from a nearby farm in Gleno. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a focus on fresh, locally inspired dishes, perfect for a relaxed meal after exploring Antrim. Expect modern twists on Irish classics, such as hearty stews or seafood plates, using farm-fresh produce. Sleepy Hollow will expand its farm-to-table offerings, introducing seasonal specials or events tied to its nearby farm, aligning with sustainability trends.
Billy Andy’s (Gleno, Near Larne). A charming, low-ceilinged pub with peat fires, Billy Andy’s offers a casual dining experience steeped in tradition. Diners can enjoy hearty Irish fare alongside a fine selection of beers and whiskies, with live Irish music sessions on Saturdays. Traditional Irish dishes like stews or roasts are staples. The focus is on comfort food with local ingredients. Expect continued music sessions and possibly new menu items emphasizing local produce from their adjacent farm, keeping the rustic charm alive.
The Bushmills Townhouse (Bushmills, Causeway Coast). This modern dining venue blends Italian flair with local ingredients in a stylish, coastal setting. Diners can enjoy light bites during the day, à la carte dinners, or hearty Sunday lunches, perfect for families or couples exploring the Causeway Coast. Italian-inspired dishes like seafood pasta or wood-fired pizzas made with local ingredients are likely highlights. The Bushmills Townhouse will introduce new Italian-Irish fusion dishes, capitalizing on its prime location near the Giant’s Causeway.
Carriages (Larne, Mid & East Antrim). A family-run restaurant with a unique train-themed interior, featuring original carriage booths. Diners can expect a mix of traditional Irish and Italian cuisine, with a focus on steak, pizza, and seafood in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Seafood specials and wood-fired pizzas are popular. The menu emphasizes hearty, crowd-pleasing options. Carriages will expand its menu with new seafood or Italian specials, reflecting Mid & East Antrim’s focus on local cuisine.
The Garden Restaurant (Ballygally Castle Hotel, Ballygally). Set in a 17th-century castle, this restaurant offers a historic yet casual dining experience with a focus on local produce. The charming, character-filled setting is ideal for a relaxed meal with coastal views. Expect seasonal plates like roast lamb or local seafood, reflecting the castle’s heritage and location. The Garden Restaurant will introduce new seasonal menus or events tied to Ballygally Castle’s history, enhancing its appeal as a destination dining spot.

Budget Dining

Top of the Town (Antrim Town). A local favorite, this budget-friendly spot offers hearty, no-frills meals in a welcoming atmosphere. Diners can expect generous portions and friendly service, perfect for families or casual outings. The chicken spacer (a local take on fried chicken) and large goujons are highly praised for their value and flavor. Top of the Town is likely to maintain its reputation for affordable, satisfying meals, possibly with new specials to keep locals coming back.
Ruby’s (Antrim Town). A family-friendly venue with a focus on value, Ruby’s serves classic comfort food in a laid-back setting. Diners enjoy quick service and a menu designed for all ages, ideal for a budget meal out. Turkey and ham dinner is a standout, offering traditional Irish flavors at a low price. Ruby’s will introduce new budget-friendly combo deals or seasonal specials, continuing its appeal as a go-to spot for affordable dining.
Harbour Lights Cafe (Carnlough, Mid & East Antrim). This family-friendly cafe offers hearty breakfasts and diverse lunch options like sandwiches and burgers, with indoor and outdoor seating. It’s a budget-conscious choice with a coastal vibe, perfect for a quick bite. Hearty breakfasts and seafood sandwiches are popular, leveraging Carnlough’s coastal location. Expect new lunch specials or takeaway options, aligning with Mid & East Antrim’s focus on accessible, local dining.
Espresso at ETC (Carrickfergus, Mid & East Antrim). A cozy, budget-friendly cafe offering coffee, light bites, and culinary delights in a relaxed setting. Diners can expect quality food at low prices, with a focus on local ceramics and art adding charm. Rxpect classic cafe fare like sandwiches, soups, and baked goods, all at affordable prices. Espresso at ETC will expand its menu with new coffee blends or baked goods, reflecting the area’s growing artisanal food scene.
Mary McBride’s (Cushendun, Coastal Village). A tiny, atmospheric pub in scenic Cushendun, offering budget-friendly meals in a cozy setting. Diners can relax after exploring the Antrim coast, enjoying simple, hearty dishes and the unique Game of Thrones® door from season six. Traditional pub fare like fish and chips or shepherd’s pie, offer affordability and comfort. Mary McBride’s will introduce new pub classics or events tied to its Game of Thrones® connection, capitalizing on tourism along the Antrim coast.