Where to dine this spring in Belfast

As “the home of fresh taste in the heart of Belfast”, Home Restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious, fresh and locally sourced seasonal menu in the city this spring. Open for lunch and dinner, this Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant prides itself on Michelin standard dishes at accessible prices. Alongside its fantastic array of tasty home-cooked food suited to all dietary requirements, Home is also highly regarded for its heartfelt Irish hospitality and warm and friendly atmosphere. The creative kitchen team pride themselves on producing innovative menus with something for everyone, including vegans, vegetarians and those following a gluten-free lifestyle. So, no one has to miss out on the delicious seasonal offerings when dining here.

If it’s fine dining you’re after, then look no further than the exquisite OX Restaurant on Oxford Street. Boasting an enthusiastic approach to seasonality, this Michelin Star restaurant is a favourite of both local and visiting foodies keen to enjoy a top-quality meal based around fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The website clearly states the central ethos of this top-quality restaurant, reading: “The seasons are set as nature intended, imagination and creativity help bring them to life.” With an enthusiastic and creative team working hard to ensure diners enjoy a delicious meal and an unforgettable experience, OX Restaurant should be top of your bucket list when it comes to places to dine in Belfast this spring.

Located on the Lisburn Road, SHU is known for its delicious menu of classic dishes and seasonal favourites. With its plush, thoughtful decor and friendly service, dining here is a truly special occasion and the food is the icing on the cake. With a focus on seasonality and fresh local ingredients, your taste buds will be delighted at what is presented in front of them in The Main Room. Taking influence from global cuisines, such as French, Mediterranean and Oriental, there is something on the menu here to suit all tastes and dietary requirements. 

Located in Belfast’s Ulster University, Academy Restaurant offers a dining experience like none other. Overlooking the beautiful St Anne’s Cathedral, this spot is perfectly located for those seeking to enjoy a memorable dining experience in the city. Focusing on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, the comprehensive menu features a delicious array of exquisitely crafted dishes perfectly curated to make the most of individual flavours. With regularly changing menus that reflect the seasons, you can always expect something fresh and new at Academy – and this spring’s menu is certain to be no different. Bringing together experienced chefs and the next generation of budding hospitality geniuses, this spot offers the very best of traditional and modern creativity in one.

Gnostic has certainly made waves since its grand opening two years ago, cementing itself as a go-to when searching for a bite to eat and unique views. This recent development, situated next to the Lagan River, facing the historic Harbour Commissioners Office, has been an exciting introduction to the city’s food scene operating as a cosy intimate bar as well as a premium eatery. Gnostic has fantastic brunch, lunch and dinner menus, all of which offer delicious options for everyone’s tastes and dietary requirements without veering from style. This city centre spot offers a unique main menu, consisting of crispy pork belly tacos, ham hock terrine, slow cooked lamb flatbread and chickpea sliders as well as a completely separate “sourdough melt menu”.

Nestled in the heart of one of Belfast’s most historic buildings, Cuffs Bar & Grill is a lively, homely and family-friendly restaurant, serving the best that Belfast has to offer. Opened in the NI Year of Food and Drink, which celebrates the quality and creativity in the industry, the restaurant at Crumlin Road Gaol prides itself on keeping it local. Head Chef Glenn Rochette ensures that all ingredients are fresh and sourced locally. Glenn and his team make the best of the seasons and have worked hard to create a menu that includes something for all.

Bengal Brasserie on Ormeau Road is an award-winning Bangladeshi restaurant with more than 30 years of serving mouthwatering cuisine. Here you can enjoy a fine dining experience in a stunning setting where contemporary meets tradition. Bengal Brasserie serves loyal diners a variety of dishes in a relaxing and welcoming environment. The Bangladeshi brasserie’s menus include a wide selection meat, fish, vegetarian and Halal dishes, all of which are full of flavour and the best quality ingredients.

The approach at Graze Restaurant is simple: to have a passion for flavour, quality ingredients, and for creating an atmosphere that is comfortable, affordable and a haven for people who simply love food and drink. The result is a laid-back and down to earth eatery that’s part neighbourhood eatery and part elegant bistro. Soft lighting and an unexpected quirkiness encourage guests to settle in, get comfortable, and have a great time. The menu is divided into day and night, both of which offer plenty of great locally sourced produce. If you’re vegetarian, simply ask the server for your own dedicated menu.

Top Blade is a restaurant specialising in flat iron steak, as well as a delicious selection of burgers and sides. These include local favourites such as Buttery Belfast Champ, Onion Rings and Market Vegetables. Vegan customers can avail of the speciality seitan steak, as well as a range of vegan-friendly side options. There is also an exciting drinks menu with cocktails, draught beer, a selection of wines and spirits aplenty. If you love your steak and want to push the boat out, order wagyu special for two and thank us later.