Northern Ireland cuisine: 10 things we love

Champ

Another must-try Northern Irish classic is champ. This dish combines seasoned mashed potatoes with scallions (spring onions), milk, and a generous amount of butter for a silky-smooth side. It's great paired with meat or fish – but just as good enjoyed on its own.

Mashed potato topped with spring onions and a cube of butter

Locally sourced produce

In Northern Ireland, diners are fortunate to have access to an abundance of incredible local produce. You can find artisanal bread from nearby bakehouses like Ursa Minor in Ballycastle, fresh vegetables from Rhee River Organics, and the coast teeming with foraging opportunities, from exquisite seaweed to a bounty of berries, nuts, seeds and mushrooms in nearby forests. This reliance on seasonality is a driving force, fostering a strong sense of community and resulting in beautifully cohesive menus as chefs have to adjust their dishes based on the local catch or produce in season. Therefore, it’s popular to have traditional dishes reimagined. For example, the classic sausage roll at Lir was transformed with fresh, locally sourced monkfish.

Dulse

Dulse is a red seaweed cherished in Northern Ireland. Foraged from the shoreline, it’s traditionally dried and enjoyed as a nutritious snack, often savoured by the handful.

Soda farls

Soda farls are known for their simplicity and comforting taste. This quick bread requires just a handful of ingredients: flour, salt, bicarbonate of soda and buttermilk. Cooked on a griddle or in an iron pan, soda farls emerge as beautifully dense and versatile. They pair brilliantly with hearty soups or can be spread with jam for a sweet treat. Soda farls embody the warmth of simple homemade cooking done right.

Yellowman

Yellowman is Northern Ireland’s unique take on honeycomb, boasting a bright, almost luminous yellow hue and a denser, chewier texture. This popular snack comes to life during the popular Ould Lammas Fair in Ballycastle, where it's a staple at local market stalls.

Whiskey

It's impossible to discuss Northern Ireland without acknowledging the significance of Bushmills whiskey, distilled since 1608. Many locals would argue that Bushmills needs no embellishment and is best enjoyed neat, without ice, allowing its rich flavours to shine.

Whiskey cocktails remain popular, with bartenders creatively incorporating foraged berries from the Bushmills area to enhance their offerings.

Additionally, County Antrim is experiencing a vibrant surge of micro-distilleries, reviving the region’s historical connection to poitín (or poteen), the traditional Irish moonshine. This new wave of distillers is now crafting commercially available poitín, which features prominently on Lir’s menu. The Irish margarita swaps tequila for poitín, showcasing the innovative spirit of Northern Ireland’s evolving drinks scene.

Glass of old fashioned with an orange peel garnish

Tayto

Arguably the most incredible crisps you’ll ever taste, Tayto crisps have earned their place as a Northern Irish icon – and anyone who dares to claim otherwise might just find themselves in a friendly debate! They’re undoubtedly one of the best exports from the region, celebrated to the extent that there’s even a theme park dedicated to them. With their nostalgic crunch, Tayto crisps are often the top request from students who’ve moved away for university – a beloved taste of home that’s hard to resist.

Creative fusions

The greatest export from Northern Ireland is its people. Many locals venture abroad to explore the world or pursue their studies, and this global experience has significantly enriched Northern Ireland’s food scene. When they return, they bring diverse influences that blend seamlessly with traditional cooking. At Lir, chefs draw inspiration from street food worldwide, transforming local produce into innovative dishes like monkfish pad Thai and squid shawarma.

The Holy Trinity

Growing up in Ireland, we often refer to the ‘Holy Trinity’ of cooking: carrots, celery and onion. These three staples form the flavour foundation of countless dishes. Traditionally, Irish cuisine has focused more on sustenance than sophistication, with restaurant recommendations often revolving around the size of portions rather than the intricate flavours and complexities of the meals. However, this perspective is shifting, as contemporary chefs begin to elevate Irish cooking, celebrating both the ingredients and the artistry behind each dish.

Where to eat and drink in Northern Ireland

Spirit of the Bann Experience

Indulge in a unique river whiskey-tasting experience that celebrates the exquisite flavours of the Causeway Coast. Enjoy iconic Bushmills whiskey alongside a sumptuous charcuterie board featuring award-winning local cheeses, artisanal sausages and rich Irish black butter. The Spirit of the Bann Experience takes place aboard the MV Kingfisher, crafted by the esteemed Harland and Wolff shipbuilders, against the backdrop of the area’s breathtaking natural beauty. Priced at £79.50, this unforgettable journey is offered by Causeway Coast Foodie Tours and promises to delight any foodie. causewaycoastfoodietours.com

On the hoof

Head to the family-run On The Hoof Barbecue in Northern Ireland for a taste of mouthwatering Texan-style marinated meats. Here, meats are expertly cooked over wood fire, ensuring they are so tender they practically fall off the bone. The culinary genius behind these delectable flavours is Fiona Chapman, who welcomes every guest with her infectious personality and a warm, family-style dining atmosphere. Expect generous portions and fresh salads, and don’t forget to wash it all down with a glass of Armagh County’s renowned cider, crafted from Bramley apples, for the perfect refreshing finish. onthehoofbbq.com

Tayto factory

Nestled in the heart of the Ulster countryside in Tandragee, the historic Tayto Castle – dating back 500 years – has been the home of Tayto crisps since 1956. Here you can immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Tayto with a guided tour of the modern, fully operational factory. Witness first-hand how locally grown potatoes transform into the beloved Tayto crisps. Follow the spuds' journey along the production line, through the flavouring station and into the iconic packets, with plenty of sampling opportunities along the way. Tours last approximately 90 minutes and are priced at £12.50 for adults and £8 for children. taytotours.com

Blackwell House afternoon tea

For a luxurious family experience, afternoon tea at Blackwell House is the perfect way to reconnect and indulge together. With five courses, no one will leave the table feeling hungry. Delight in a mouthwatering selection of meticulously crafted bite-sized pastries, including Bramley apple and carrot cake, dark chocolate ganache éclairs, apple cream tarts, candy-striped meringues, mint Aero cheesecake, and the renowned Blackwell shortbread. And just when you think your tastebuds can’t take any more, you’ll be tempted by a zesty lemon posset to cap off the experience. At £39 per person, this afternoon tea offers exceptional value and can accommodate large groups, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings. blackwellhouse.co.uk

Bakehouse NI

For an intimate and heartwarming cooking experience, Bakehouse NI is a must-visit. In the comfort of owner Bronagh’s cosy kitchen, you’ll learn to make traditional Irish dishes, from classic soda bread to homely "mammy’s dinners". Unlike other cookery schools, the approach at Bronagh’s skips the fuss over complex techniques and focuses on the sheer joy of cooking. Having learned at the side of her mother and grandmother, Bronagh's classes are infused with the warmth of family tradition. For something extra special, Bronagh also offers afternoon tea classes, perfect for hen parties and groups. After the lesson, you’ll get to savour your creations in a charmingly converted gypsy caravan – a wonderful way to end the day. bakehouseni.com

Kitchen with cooked bread on the counter

Where to stay in Northern Ireland

Killeavy castle

Killeavy Castle Estate is the ultimate escape for those seeking luxury and serenity. This elegant estate combines history with modern indulgence and is set within 365 acres of lush woodland in the Slieve Gullion foothills. The restored castle oozes charm, while the farm-to-fork menu champions fresh, local produce. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and reset in style.

Doubles from £230. Check availability at killeavycastle.com

The Bushmills Inn

The Bushmills Inn is a charming and historic place to stay in the heart of Northern Ireland's Causeway Coast. It blends old-world charm with modern luxury, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy beautifully furnished rooms with original features like open fireplaces. The inn is just a short distance from popular attractions such as the Giant’s Causeway and Bushmills Distillery, making it an ideal base for exploring the area's rich heritage and stunning landscapes. Renowned for its excellent dining, the inn's restaurant serves locally sourced seasonal produce, creating a delightful culinary experience.

Doubles from £260. Check availability at bushmillsinn.com

If you're travelling to Ireland and want further help planning your trip, check out more information from Ireland.com

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