The best places for Caribbean food and drink in Belfast

Located in the heart of the city centre, Bootleggers is somewhat of a Belfast institution, welcoming hungry locals seven days a week for lunch, dinner, and drinks. A nod to the 1920s Prohibition era, this spot has a cheeky outlaw vibe — and they certainly aren’t afraid to stray away from the rules. The food here is casual and nothing short of epic. Expect everything from tacos filled with BBQ pulled pork, southern fried chicken, tempura battered fish, Moroccan spiced halloumi, or seitan satay, to burgers to suit all tastes and dietary requirements. If you’re looking for a taste of the Caribbean, you’re in luck as they offer a great selection of spicy chicken wings reminiscent of sunny holidays. They even offer Jamaican Red Stripe to wash your meal down.

For authentic Caribbean flavours, there is nowhere better in Belfast than the incredible Island Spice takeaway. From jerk pork to brown stew chicken, goat curry to fried plantains, the options here are endless. Owned and run by former nurse Leticia Robinson, who moved from Guyana to Belfast in 2014, Island Spice has gained popularity in the city for its spicy and authentic Caribbean dishes that are packed full of flavour. Speaking to Belfast Live about what diners can expect, Letecia explained, “In the Caribbean, it’s a lot of spicy stuff, a lot of grilled stuff, a lot of curries. The thing that makes Caribbean food a bit different is that its dishes you might be used to, but normally with a lot of spices.” So, if spice is your thing, then this spot needs to be on your list. They even offer a fantastic range of Caribbean-inspired drinks that will perfectly complement the flavours of your meal, from a Guinness Punch to a Pina Colada.

This laidback late night cafe bar and restaurant proves popular for its music, contemporary cocktails, and delicious dishes. Located in the heart of the city centre, this spot is perfectly located for a fun and relaxed night out in town. Offering a range of small plates inspired by a variety of different cuisines, there really is something to suit everyone here. All ingredients are locally sourced and dishes are designed to be shared, so you are guaranteed plenty of flavour. From calamari to chicken wings to fried battered mushrooms and more, it is easy to see the Caribbean influence in the dishes offered here. Plus, they offer a fantastic array of delicious rum cocktails that pair perfectly with all dishes on their menu.

Located in the iconic and bustling St George’s Market at the heart of Belfast City Centre, Wasacaca Grill is a wonderful Venezuelan eatery bringing a taste of the Caribbean to Northern Ireland. Serving everything from traditional Venezuelan arepas (grilled and stuffed corn breads) with various fillings and their iconic Wasacaca avocado sauce to empanadas, pasta ones, tequenos, and more, it really doesn’t get much more authentic than this. The perfect, indulgent weekend treat, we recommend heading down early as this spot proves incredibly popular.

When it comes to fun and lively dining in Belfast City Centre, there is nowhere that better fits the bill than the incredible Revolucion de Cuba on Arthur Street. Taking inspiration from the colours, flavours, and atmosphere of Cuba, this tapas and cocktail bar is one you won’t want to miss. Expect everything from tropical chicken skewers, gambas pil pil, Cajun creamy mushrooms, chimichurri corn, and more. Plus, it’s not just the food that is worth visiting for. The cocktails here are truly next level. From Cuban icons such as the Cuba Libre, various Daiquiri, and various Mojitos to various rum-based cocktails, the Caribbean flavours really are in abundance here.

A classy cocktail bar located at the heart of the city, Angel & Two Bibles is the perfect spot if you want to sip on some delicious drinks that bring out the iconic tastes of the Caribbean. Boasting an intimate speakeasy atmosphere, this unique spot offers two varied and delicious cocktail menus, featuring everything from classic cocktails, punch bowls, non-alcoholic drinks, and more. In ‘The Old Testament’ menu, you’ll find a delicious selection of cocktails inspired by the Tiki Movement. The menu reads, “Tiki appeared in the 1930s as a response to the steady supply of rum as well as new shipments of exotic fruits from the Pacific islands… Tiki embraced Polynesian culture to bring theatre and excitement to the bar scene…”. Whether you opt for the lesser known Cobra Fang, which features Havana Special, Falernum, Overproof Rum, Lime, Orange, Mango, and Passionfruit, or the Painkiller, which started life as a twist on the classic Pina Colada, you’re sure to be feeling the island vibes as you sip away.