4 minute read
A Giant Taste Awaits - Giant Places to Dig In
A Taste Awaits PlacesGiant to inDigGiant
The Rabbit Restaurant, Co. Antrim Wine & Brine, Co. Down Artis, Derry~Londonderry Watermill Lodge, Co. Fermanagh
With so much to do and see in Northern Ireland, chances are you’ll need a place to stop and refuel to keep your giant adventure going. Or maybe it’s a family meal you’re after – or a romantic dinner for two. Whatever you’re hungry for, Northern Ireland has an abundance of tasty food and drink spots to keep everyone satisfied.
The French Rooms
Close to the famous Giant’s Causeway and just a stone’s throw from the village of Bushmills, you’ll find a bit of oh là là at The French Rooms. This beautiful and homely restaurant serves up delicious, Frenchinspired, elegant dishes. Its cosy hideaway snugs are perfect for a weekend lunch or dinner.
The Rabbit Restaurant
The Rabbit Restaurant in Templepatrick is the perfect spot to get stuck in to inspiring menus that boast fresh, local and, most importantly, delicious dishes to savour. With appetisers to pique your interest, pizzas for a slice of comfort, sharing options for two, dishes inspired by an Italian-American influence and a lunch spread to keep you going—this place has it all. So, hop on down!
Wine & Brine
Wine & Brine, in Moira, is an exciting vision from renowned chef, Chris McGowan and wife, Davina, aiming to combine fresh, local produce with traditional ageing, curing and pickling techniques. Menus change daily, and, as its name suggests, some of the meats are gently brined using whey from a local dairy supplier. So, wine not?
James St.
Belfast's James St. has an outstanding reputation for incredible food and ambience (oh, and steaks). Which is how it’s earned such a strong and loyal customer base. Newly appointed chef Ryan Stringer is keen to keep doing what James St. does well - its
James St., Belfast Blackwater Bar & Grill, Co. Tyrone The Dairy, Causeway Coastal Route
famous crab and chilli linguini (and those steaks), for instance - while introducing some of his own style and experience. Having worked at Dublin’s Ely restaurant for a decade, he’s really excited about bringing all his experience, “back home to Ulster”, in his new role.
Artis
The Craft Village in Derry~Londonderry has a new finedining experience, Artis (Latin for craft), by chefs Phelim O’Hagan and Ray Moran. A celebration of local produce, married to more than 43 years of Michelin-starred restaurant experience, at Artis you can expect great food, great drinks and even better craic!
Brunel's
Named after the world's most famous engineer, Brunel's in Newcastle is known for constructing its own impressive dishes. Their mission is to create dishes that challenge and inspire. So, get ready for a bold and creative gourmet menu.
Blank Restaurant
If you like surprises, you’re in for a treat at Belfast’s newest casual fine-dining eatery, Blank Restaurant. The Malone Road restaurant offers a surprise fivecourse dining experience curated using only local produce, farmed and sourced on the island of Ireland. - the surprise being that you know all the ingredients you're getting. Just not how they will be put together - or in what dish.
Blackwater Bar and Grill
If you’re feeling peckish, Corick House Hotel's Blackwater Bar and Grill provides the perfect backdrop for a casual bite to eat. A lovely selection of snacks is on offer and welcoming open fires await. Relax and savour the delights of the odd drink or two, with a full complement of local brands available. The bar also offers a range of cocktails.
Watermill Lodge
It’s on the shores of Upper Lough Erne, and it’ll be re-opening on the 25th of March. Worth waiting for? We should say so! The award-winning Watermill Lodge is about as picturesque as it gets. This stunning restaurant serves up local cuisine with a French twist. So enjoy a stroll in its beautiful water gardens and consider: is there a better thing to do than watch the sun go down as you savour an after-dinner digestif?
Daft Eddy's
Nestling on Strangford Lough's Sketrick Island, the ever-popular Daft Eddy’s is the perfect location for a picturesque pint overlooking the stunning shores. You can enjoy their fresh fish al fresco or dine on some locally caught crab claws.
Basil Sheils
Settle into one of the many enchanting nooks or choose a spot in front of the open fire in the original small bar at Basil Sheils. Then soak up the atmosphere as you hear tales of days gone by. A place that’s filled with good food and great times, this traditional pub combines youth and life with history and antique charm - truly a hidden gem in the Orchard County.
The Dairy
Once a bustling creamery, The Dairy in Gleno, County Antrim, now houses a cafe and restaurant. The menus here are expertly curated and crafted from concept to delivery. Expect the freshest and most locally sourced ingredients - including meat products and pastries made on site.
Plenty more on the table
For a springtime stay to awaken all the senses, visit discovernorthernireland.com. There you’ll find even more information on the best places for food and drink, a huge range of accommodation options and the most up-to-date guides on local events and festivals.
