Belfast restaurant named top in Northern Ireland at national awards

The best in Northern Ireland

The National Restaurant Awards ceremony took place on 13th June and saw restaurants across Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK compete for the coveted accolades.

The National Restaurant Awards, sponsored by Estrella Damm and hosted by BigHospitality, is an annual countdown of the top 100 restaurants in the UK as voted for by leading chefs, restaurateurs, and food writers.

Coming out on top as the ‘Best Restaurant in Northern Ireland’ and also gaining a spot on the roster of Top 100 Restaurants in the UK to rank at number 85, Ox has firmly cemented its place as one of the finest eateries the country has to offer.

What diners can expect

If you’re thinking of booking into Ox for your next date night or to celebrate an upcoming special occasion, here is what you can expect from this upscale dining experience.

With minimalist interiors and an airy feel, Ox boasts a light and spacious environment with tasteful aspects, such as the exposed whitewashed brick walls.

Offering up a truly relaxing environment that allows you to enjoy the dishes presented before you, your senses will be delighted before your first course even arrives.

Headed by Belfast-born Stephen Toman and Brittany native Alain Kerloc’h, Ox specialises in seasonal Irish cuisine with a creative flair. In the hopes of bringing something new and exciting to the Belfast culinary scene, the two friends first set upon their venture in 2013, opening Ox overlooking the River Lagan.

Ox boasts menus that guarantee top quality meat and sustainably sourced fish, which are often locally sourced. Meanwhile, they also give careful attention to seasonal vegetables and fruit, making sure that the flavours in what would normally be seen as a garnish or side are just as full and delightful as the main event.

Other contenders

The winners of the National Restaurant Awards were decided by over 200 industry experts who cast their votes, taking into account factors such as the food, the staff, atmosphere, music, design, and price.

Launched in 2007, the awards seek to celebrate the creativity and vibrancy of the UK’s dining scene, encouraging people to get out and try new restaurants.

Beating out contenders in the likes of London and Edinburgh, Welsh restaurant Ynyshir, located in Machynlleth and headed by Gareth Ward, took home the crown as the best restaurant in the UK.