If you fancy somewhere different for your dinner or quirky for your cuppa, here are 11 great spots in the wider Carrickfergus, Larne and Ballymena areas.
Ranging from a 200-year-old schoolhouse to railway-themed dining, there’s something to suit everyone.
Is there anywhere you’d add to the list?
5. Slemish Market Supper Club, Ballymena
This pop-up dining experience is led by award-winning chef Rob Curley, pictured here with BBC Radio presenter, Kim Lenaghan. Based in differing venues across the Ballymena area, Rob brings to the table a six-course extravaganza featuring the best local seasonal produce, with diners also getting the chance find out more about the suppliers and preparation. The supper club's next pop-up is at Incredible Edibles, the Old Mill, Cloughmills on November 2; for more information on upcoming events, visit https://www.facebook.com/slemishmarketsupperclub Photo: Phillip Byrne
6. Millside, Gracehill
If you like dining in a historic setting, this popular restaurant is situated in Gracehill's Old Schoolhouse, itself 200 years old. Still going strong after 16 years, it serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, using local ingredients wherever possible. Photo: Google
7. The Lighthouse Bistro, Whitehead
If you fancy a meal with a view, The Lighthouse Bistro is located right next to one of Northern Ireland's most colourful promenades. Based on Marine Avenue in the beautiful Victorian town of Whitehead, it also offers alfresco summer dining around the corner on Marine Parade. With dishes cooked by chef proprietor Joni Lutzman in French style with a Nordic touch, this seaside eatery is open for brunch and lunch Wednesday-Friday from 10am-4pm, with an evening menu on Saturdays from 4pm-8:45pm (last booking). Photo: Helena McManus/Google
8. Barbara Ann's, Larne
If you're devoted to doughnuts, then this Larne café and home bakery is the place to visit. Saturdays are dedicated to the circular baked treat, with past flavours ranging from Ferrero Rocher and Terry's Chocolate Orange to Raspberry Ruffle - keep an eye on the cafe's Facebook page for what's on offer each week. Barbara Ann's also runs 'Dessert Nights' on Thursdays with a later closing time of 8:30pm. Photo: Google