County Derry eateries nominated at NI Restaurant Awards 2023

The Northern Ireland Restaurant Awards, an event that will recognise the best restaurants in the country, has announced the 2023 finalists.

The first ever Northern Ireland Restaurant Awards 2023 will celebrate the best restaurants and culinary talent in the country. 

The awards aim to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of restaurants, chefs, and their teams in delivering exceptional dining experiences to customers.

Following the voting process where the public considered everything from ambience to service and variety in the menu, the finest restaurants and dining establishments in Northern Ireland have been shortlisted in various categories.

The County Derry fooderies nominated at NI Restaurant Awards 2023 include Ocho Bistro and Meatbox in Coleraine for Spanish Restaurant of the Year and Burger Restaurant of the Year respectively.

Also, Ponderosa in Dungiven has been nominated for Restaurant of the Year and Silky's Bistro, also in Dungiven, has been shortlisted for Restaurant Team.

Church Street Brasserie and Imperial Palace in Magherafelt have made the shortlist for European Restaurant and Chinese Restaurant respectively while Ardtara Country House was nominated for Country Restaurant of the Year. 

The winners of each category will be announced at the elegant ceremony which will take place in Belfast next month.

The awards provide an opportunity to showcase the diversity and quality of the country’s cuisine, which is known for its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.

By recognising outstanding restaurants and dining establishments, the awards help to raise the profile of the Northern Irish food and restaurant industry and contribute to its ongoing growth and success.

A Spokesperson for The Northern Ireland Restaurant Awards 2023 said: “The Northern Ireland Restaurant Awards are an amazing opportunity to celebrate and showcase the very best and diverse range in the country’s dining scene. With Mediterranean, Japanese, Nepalese, Seafood and Mexican restaurants amongst others, Northern Ireland is a real paradise for foodies.

“The Awards are expected to be one of the biggest gatherings for restaurant owners in the country. We are thrilled to announce our finalists for 2023 and look forward to revealing the winners at the awards ceremony. Congratulations to all the finalists and we wish them the best of luck."