Best Restaurants in Northern Ireland

With a population of less than two million people, Northern Ireland is the least populated country in the United Kingdom. Nonetheless, the country which famously built the Titanic is now home to a number of leading restaurants and in recent years, the standard of food available has improved massively. Below you'll find the 36 best restaurants in Northern Ireland including all Michelin Star restaurants in Northern Ireland and AA rosette restaurants in Northern Ireland, as judged by the leading UK restaurant guides.
Nestled on the northeastern corner of Ireland, Northern Ireland is a land renowned for its rich culinary heritage. It spans across lush farmlands, unblemished coastlines, and vibrant cities, offering us a delightful array of traditional dishes. An integral part of the United Kingdom, the region beckons with its inimitable fusion of flavours, marrying the hardy staples of British gastronomy with the heartwarming robustness of Irish fare. Historically, Northern Irish cuisine consisted of hearty, filling meals like Ulster fry, an intimidating combination of fried bread, eggs, bacon, and various kinds of sausages. But in recent years, its restaurant scene has evolved significantly, reflecting a shift towards using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant revolution was led by establishments like OX County and MacNean House, which proudly showcases the exquisite seafood, meat, and vegetables sourced from the region. This exciting haute cuisine experience, enhanced by the charm of virgin landscapes and historical architecture, promises a memorable dining experience in Northern Ireland. Undoubtedly, it's a haven for food lovers that proudly carries its culinary legacy while surpassing culinary boundaries.

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Ely
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Best Restaurants in Northern Ireland FAQs

Which is the best restaurant in Northern Ireland?

The best restaurant in Northern Ireland is OX in Belfast (based on our unique combination of the leading UK restaurant guides) where head chef Stephen Toman serves up award winning Modern British Cuisine. OX currently holds 1 Michelin Star and 3 AA Rosettes.

How many award winning restaurants are there in Northern Ireland?

In total, there are 36 award winning restaurants in Northern Ireland, based on the combined awards from the leading UK restaurant guides.

How many Michelin Star restaurants are there in Northern Ireland?

There are currently 2 listed Michelin Star restaurants in Northern Ireland consisting of 2 restaurants holding 1 Michelin Star. There are also 7 restaurants holding a Michelin Bib Gourmand and 11 restaurants holding a standard Michelin Guide listing.

How many AA Rosette restaurants are there in Northern Ireland?

There are currently 18 listed AA Rosette restaurants in Northern Ireland consisting of 1 restaurant holding 3 AA Rosettes, 5 restaurants holding 2 AA Rosettes and 12 restaurants holding 1 AA Rosette.