The capital’s culinary landscape is studded with hidden gems of restaurants, offering you a tour of the cuisine world without even leaving Northern Ireland.
5. La Taqueria
At this independent taco chain, La Taqueria’s craft is rooted in rusted, traditional Mexican flavours and recipes that not only showcase some of Northern Ireland’s famous local produce but also Mexico’s amazing ingredients that the staff ship themselves – from dry chillies and cinnamon sticks to soft drinks and spices. The food is mirrored by their drinks; artisan tequila and mezcal, letting high-quality ingredients shine. La Taqueria began life as a pop-up in September 2016, but when the prestigious McKennas’ Restaurant Guide named it the best restaurant in Ireland the owners ''knew it was time to settle down for good.'' They opened their second restaurant in Castle Street in February 2019 and welcomed their new business partners, Gary Lightbody and Nathan Connolly of Snow Patrol.
6. ThaiTanic Cuisine
This Lisburn Road restaurant believes that Thai cuisine should be all about the right mixture of spices along with fresh vegetables that make it look enticing and taste like ''heaven'', with all the ''most-loved'' Thai dishes listed on its menu.
7. Kamakura Sushi and Ramen Restaurant
The Japanese city of Kamakura is famed for its dozens of unique temples, beaches and relaxed atmosphere, and these two restaurants in Donegall Pass and the Holywood Road aim to reflect that Far Eastern ambience. Upon entering, experience the feeling of having travelled across the world, complete with sliding doors and the idyllic soundtrack of soft piano and ocean waves crashing. The main sushi chef, Shotaro Obana San, has 35 years’ experience of making mouth-watering sashimi.
8. Thai Village
This family-run restaurant on the Dublin Road has been thriving for over a decade. Apart from offering traditional Thai dishes, such as Panang curry and seafood, and a wide array of wines, the interior is beautifully designed with Thai architecture, transporting individuals to the Far East.