Where to Eat



Northern Ireland offers a rich tapestry of culinary experiences that reflect its cultural heritage and innovative spirit.

Here's just a few of our favourite eateries in Whitehead, plus a few that are a sort drive away, then good food in Belfast city and if you're driving along the North Coast some lovely places for you to try there too!

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On Our Doorstep



The Lighthouse Bistro Restaurant




The Lighthouse Bistro is a small, independent, made from scratch, award winning restaurant nestled right beside the sea in colourful Whitehead.

Fully licenced, they work with independent wine merchants who supply decadent wines and independent breweries for our local ciders and ales.

We use vegetables from a farm only a view miles away (including other sources such as the wholesaler) and cheese from our local cheesemonger along with lobster from our local fishermen from Islandmagee...just to name a few!

You can expect a warm welcome from this husband and wife team who are passionate about local produce, delicious food and great hospitality!
BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Whitehead Golf Club & Restaurant




Just 5 min walk from The Pink Cottage, the golf club offers unrivalled views over vast areas of land and sea.

​The bar and restaurant facilities are friendly and welcoming and open to guests...tell them you are a Pink Cottage guest and you'll get a 10% food discount off your bill in the restaurant!

Steak are highly recommended!

If you play the course, you can see all the way across Belfast Lough to the Mourne Mountains, over the Irish Sea to Scotland and across Islandmagee all the way up to the famous Glens of Antrim and close to the newly restored famous Gobbins cliff-face path.



Kings Road Coffee




A movement in coffee with its focus on high quality. Beans are sourced from individual farms and are roasted more lightly to bring out their distinctive flavours.


They say life is just too short to not drink amazing coffee.

Located on Kings Road, in the heart of the Victorian and Edwardian village, Whitehead.

They do great food too...all day breakfasts, avo, sourdough, poachys, vegan choices , bacon and sausage rolls. And more.

Start walking from The Pink Cottage front door, go right, towards the lighthouse and take path down to sea level. Its a beautiful 45 min walk or a 2 mins drive.

The Bank House - Cafe




The Bank House is a cafe, situated at the start of the stunning Causeway Coastal Route, in the heart of the Victorian and Edwardian village, Whitehead.

Five minutes dander from the scenic coastal walk Blackhead Path, it serves locally roasted coffee and specialist loose-leaf tea.

There's a deli for lunch serving a selection of fresh Irish cheeses and meats, and sumptuous cakes and sweet treats handmade by local bakers.  



The Fuzzy Beak




The Fuzzy Beak is a cozy modern restaurant nestled in the charming town of Whitehead.


The Fuzzy Beak is a small, family-run business that cherishes the warmth of family in everything it does.

We offer a fusion of traditional and modern dishes, with every dish being crafted with tender love and care.

The menu offers an array of freshly prepared, homestyle comfort food, or what they affectionately call, “Food for the Soul”.

A Short Drive Away



Castello Italia




Italian restaurant, coffee shop and gelato emporium in Carrickfergus, 7 miles away, with stunning views over Belfast Lough and an easy walk to Carrickfergus Castle.

They serve a carefully considered selection of authentic Italian dishes & amazing desserts. Their Affettati Misti is perfect for sharing.

Sliced cured meats, olives, hummus, sundried tomatoes & freshly baked breads.

They have a stunning selection of wines, local & Italian beers, fantastic Gin collection, comprehensive spirits list and mouth-watering cocktails.

They make their own artisan Italian Gelato and also make all their own breads, ravioli, desserts.

They offer authentic Italian thin base pizza, with a variety of toppings, the only problem will be choosing what to have.

They cater for vegetarian, vegans as well as fish & meat eaters and aim to source as much local produce as possible and always using seasonal products.

The Dairy Bistro




This bistro, butchers and farm shop is set in the heart of the Gleno valley, within a few minutes walk of Gleno waterfall and a short drive from Larne, Carrickfergus and the Causeway Coastal Route.

Its cosy and rustic yet modern decor blends naturally into its rural surroundings and aims to provide a comfortable destination venue suitable for everyone.

They have a menu offering a wide range of breakfast and lunch dishes suitable for meat eaters, vegetarians, vegans and coeliacs.

Traditional roast dinners are also available on Sundays.

They sell Maud's ice-cream and as many locals know, Gleno was once home to the Maud's ice cream factory so its great to see it back here.

The Olderfleet Bar & Garden Venue



A twenty min drive to Larne, the culinary experience at The Olderfleet is distinguished by its focus on fresh local produce and modern flavours with a sea-inspired touch.


Boasting one of County Antrim's largest beer gardens, The Olderfleet offers an ideal setting for patrons to enjoy delectable food, cocktails, and weekly live entertainment year-round. This expansive outdoor space enhances the overall dining and social experience, making it a preferred destination for both locals and visitors.


The Olderfleet seamlessly melds its rich historical roots with a modern ambiance, positioning itself as one of Larne's premier spots.
Emphasising quality, innovation, and a commitment to an engaging atmosphere, it delivers a unique and memorable experience.

The addition of weekly entertainment, featuring local bands and acoustic acts, further enriches the vibrant and inviting atmosphere of this stylish and modern bar situated in the heart of Larne.

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Belfast




Belfast, the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland, offers a tantalising food experience that is as diverse as it is delicious. 

Belfast’s gastronomic landscape is dotted with gems known for fresh seafood and quirky atmosphere.


Whether you’re indulging in a gourmet meal, sipping on craft beers, or enjoying a casual brunch, Belfast’s food experience is sure to leave you with fond memories and a satisfied appetite.

There's always the BELFAST FOOD TOUR if you want to sample more of the very best tastes in Belfast!



Daisies Coffee Shop




This is the absolute best kept secret coffee and chocolate cafe in Belfast. A must try!

Hidden in plain sight this cafe/chocolate/artisan foodie shop is something special in Belfast. 


At the heart of Daisies Coffee Shop lies its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. From the meticulously sourced coffee beans to the handcrafted fresh Cannolis made fresh from genuine imported Italian Ricotta.


The Ginger Bistro




The Ginger Bistro was established in the year 2000. Located in the heart of Belfast City Centre, Ginger is now recognised as one of Belfasts finest, multi award winning restaurants.


With a hand picked supply chain and a long standing relationship, Ginger Bistro’s ingredients are all of top quality and locally produced when possible.

If catching the train from Whitehead, its a short walk from Great Victoria St Train Station.

BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Coppi



Contemporary Italian


Showcasing the best local produce in the heart of Belfast Cathedral Quarter.

Their menu is made up of contemporary Italian inspired dishes. From fresh handmade pasta to stunning seafood dishes. 

Their pasta is prepared fresh on-site including vegan pastas.


From handcrafted cocktails to delicious Venetian small plates (Cicchetti), quality is the number one priority.

Shu



Fresh seasonal ingredients drive a simple approach in the restaurant’s kitchen where the focus is on quality and in the reinterpretation of iconic recipes and classic dishes.

SHU embraces French, Mediterranean and Oriental influences to create our take on modern European cuisine served in a warm, vibrant space.





For more restaurants in Belfast click to see the current Tripadvisor List

Causeway Coast




The North Coast of Antrim offers a culinary journey as rich and varied as its landscapes.


The area is celebrated for its award-winning food tours , providing exclusive access to venues and locations that only a local team can offer.

A portfolio of sensational experiences, that capture the heritage, energy and people of the world-famous Causeway Coast in its mouth-watering, locally produced, award-winning, food and drink.


From the freshest seafood to homemade jams and chutneys, the North Coast of Antrim is a haven for those who seek to celebrate Northern Ireland’s rich gastronomic culture.

Eat on the Causeway Coast



The Nook




In an historic listed building, dating from 1850's, built as the original school house; this sympathetically restored and renovated edifice encapsulates all the original Victorian features and is found right at the entrance to the Giant's Causeway World Heritage site.

The food gives a true "Taste of Ulster" as well as offering continental style brasserie dishes and speciality coffees.

The Nook with its open fires in winter and outside terrace overlooking the coast in summer is a popular destination with all international tourists as well as local inhabitants of the district.

The Bushmills Inn



Restaurant, Bar & Loft

The Restaurant is one of the most idyllic places to eat in Bushmills, offering all-day dining and serving the finest dishes using seasonal and locally-sourced produce in an elegant, atmospheric and relaxed setting.

Their emphasis is on quietly unobtrusive, yet attentive service.

They offer a sophisticated yet informal environment, showcasing a rich history and heritage in the setting of the original 17th century stables and wine cellar, contrasted by intimate snugs with whitewashed walls and warm mellow brick timbers.

As well as fine dining in our Restaurant you can enjoy al fresco dining on our Patio during the summer months, a traditional Sunday Lunch or delicious pub grub in our cosy Gas Bar.


They work with the finest artisan producers, local farmers and fishermen to source the very best ingredients.

Ramore Restaurants Portrush



Situated on the stunning causeway coast in the seaside town of Portrush, the Ramore offers a unique range of restaurants & bars serving highly renowned dishes & drinks for all tastes:

The Wine Bar
Renowned for its fantastic tasting fresh food and lively atmosphere the Ramore Wine Bar has a modern and innovative decor with a mouth-watering menu to suit all tastes. 

The Mermaid
The Mermaid Kitchen and Bar has a casual, relaxed style with top quality service dining offering fresh fish & local specials.

Neptune and Prawn
An Informal dining experience serving many Asian inspired dishes which are perfect for sharing, along with an upstairs cocktail bar with amazing sunset views.

Coast Pizzeria
An Italian style food bar offering fresh stone-baked pizza and authentic Italian and modern pasta dishes. Ideal for all the family.

Harbour Bistro
A contemporary menu served in traditional surroundings. With its selection of wood fired grilled meats and famous steaks from JD Hart & Sons Butchers, the Harbour Bistro is a welcome surprise tucked away behind the famous Harbour Bar.

Harbour Bar
One of the oldest bars in Portrush, the traditional "Front Bar" offering renowned Guinness and a warm welcome.


It also has its own standalone Gin Bar offering a huge selection of premium gins & spirits, wood fired snacks, and live entertainment every evening.


Amici Ristorante




Amici reflects the passionate, humble and sociable attitude of Italians towards food.


Using only the best local ingredients to produce a rustic, homely and authentic Italian menu.


They use a charcoal oven to cook all of their meat, fish and poultry, giving them a subtle smokey flavour.


All their pizzas are lovingly crafted from homemade dough, kneaded by hand and cooked at 800°F in our wood burning pizza oven.

Harry's Shack




A little wooden beach shack right on the stunning Portstewart Strand, a 2 mile long sandy beach.


Serving the best of local fish and home grown vegetables in a relaxed environment.


Book in advance and enjoy!

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