Belfast International Airport's new casual dining restaurant, Flax & Soda, aims to become 'best part of the journey' for passengers
A new casual dining restaurant has opened in the Departures Lounge at Belfast International Airport.
Flax & Soda offers a flexible, all-day dining experience with a menu that celebrates both local and global influences, from Belfast baps, breakfast naans and soda bread Benedicts in the morning to a varied selection of burgers, curries, fish and chips, Turkish-inspired chicken kebabs and vibrant salads later in the day.
Opened by SSP Group, a leading operator of food and beverage outlets in travel locations worldwide, Flax & Soda is a 280-cover space in the centre of the bustling Departures Lounge.
The new venue places Northern Ireland at its core, proudly sourcing from a network of trusted local suppliers. Regional ingredients are showcased throughout the menu and bar offer, from high-quality meats and freshly baked breads to locally produced dairy and a carefully curated selection of local beers and spirits.
Belfast’s character impacts every touchpoint of the passenger experience, with local favourite Knead Pizza, a firm staple of Belfast’s iconic Common Market, to provide an authentic taste of the city to the airport for passengers to enjoy.
The space also features a bespoke mural celebrating the region’s rich history and culture by local artist Keith Drury, titled ‘Best of Belfast’, which serves as a striking centrepiece.
Stuart Buchanan, chief property & business development officer at SSP UK & Ireland, said: “One of our key focus areas has been expanding our bespoke airport bar and kitchen concepts grounded in a strong sense of place.
"Flax & Soda is another example of this strategy in action, celebrating the region through a distinctly local proposition that perfectly complements our broad portfolio of food and beverage units at Belfast International Airport.
"We’re confident that Flax & Soda will quickly become the best part of the journey for passengers using the airport.”
In 2025, Belfast International Airport embarked on a five-year journey to transform passenger experiences, with SSP Group playing a significant role in improving the range of food and beverage outlets into a modern, passenger-friendly hub of dining options.
In the last six months, the food travel experts have already introduced new grab-and-go outlets Soul & Grain, Starbucks and Burger King alongside a fresh look and increased capacity for iconic bar, The Lagan.
The final phase of food and beverage developments is expected to be complete later this year, including a brand new 300-cover premium bar and kitchen concept.
Kate Sherry, chief commercial officer at Belfast International Airport, said: “Flax & Soda is a most welcome addition to our food and beverage landscape at Belfast International Airport and reflects our vision to transform the airport experience.
"With a focus on celebrating local flavours and ingredients, this new family-oriented restaurant is designed to offer our passengers a fresh and innovative dining experience. Flax & Soda is more than just a dining destination—it’s a tribute to the vibrant culture that makes Belfast and the entire region unique.”