Best places for Irish food in Belfast

Established in 2019, Ben Madigan’s Bar and Kitchen can be found at the foot of one of Belfast’s most iconic landmarks: Cavehill. We don’t know about you, but we can think of nothing better after a hike to one of the most impressive viewpoints in the city than refuelling with a hearty Irish meal and a creamy pint of Guinness. With a friendly atmosphere and award-winning local food and drink, Ben Madigan’s has proved a hit with locals in its two years of operation. Despite being one of the more recent additions to Belfast’s dining scene, this restaurant has a traditional feel and outstanding service that makes it feel like it has existed for decades. From the menu, you can enjoy Ben’s ‘Famous’ Seafood Chowder, Steamed Dundrum Mussels, a juicy Buttermilk Chicken Burger, and much more.

One of the premier names in Belfast’s restaurant scene, Holohan’s Pantry proves popular for a reason. And that reason is outstanding food and drinks, accompanied by attentive service. This laid-back, family-owned spot offers a variety of traditional and local Irish fare, which has gained it the reputation as Belfast’s only five star rated restaurant on TripAdvisor. Using fresh, local ingredients and traditional Irish recipes, Holohan’s Pantry is a sure bet for great Irish food. Guests can enjoy the famous Holohan’s Pan Boxty, which is served with seasonal vegetables and your choice of flavour. Alternatively, you can choose from a 10oz dry-aged sirloin steak, sea bass, pork belly, or duck breast.

Set on the Upper Newtownards Road in the east of the city is the classy and chic Hoose Bistro. Procuring fresh, local ingredients to offer a quality dining experience to customers, this spot is famed across the city for its wholesome food and equally wholesome atmosphere. Diners can choose from a range of steaks, seafood, pork and chicken dishes, as well as a range of vegan and vegetarian options, cooked to perfection, with thoughtfully flavoured sides. The Sunday carvery menu here is truly exquisite and reasonably priced too, meaning diners return time and time again.

Not only is McHughs Bar and Restaurant one of the oldest bars in the city, dating back to 1711, it’s also one of the best places to go for delicious, traditional Irish food and drinks, live music, and a friendly atmosphere. Spread over three floors, there is something for everyone at this brilliant Irish bar and restaurant. The menu at McHughs features a vast array of local favourites, including the famous Boxty, which is accompanied by an impressive choice of toppings. If you fancy something different, there’s also classic Irish pub favourites, such as the Famous Hot Rock Steaks, Creamy Seafood Chowder, and plenty more. For the full Irish pub experience, we recommend visiting at the weekend, during one of the live trad music sessions!

Located at the heart of the city in Robinson’s Bar on Great Victoria Street is Fibber Magee. Steeped in Irish tradition, you will be hard pushed to find a more authentic traditional Irish pub experience in the whole of Belfast. With a roaring fire and live Irish folk music, this is the perfect place to escape the blustery Belfast weather. Cosy up with your choice of stout, listen to the fiddles, bodhráns and pipes, and enjoy a hearty plate of Irish food. Dishes on offer include a traditional Steak and Guinness Pie served with chunky chips, Battered Cod with chunky chips and mushy peas, the Chef’s Soup of the Day, and much more. You’re sure to be spoilt for choice if you opt for a meal at this traditional Irish restaurant.