Lir in the Press

Lir is an independent seafood restaurant based on the north coast of Northern Ireland, known for its zero-waste ethos and whole-fish cookery. Since opening, it’s been making waves with its tide-to-table menus, garnering both national and international press.

Contact for press and media enquiries: lirseafood@gmail.com

Media Best Bits

  • Great British Menu (BBC Two)

In 2025, co-owner and head chef Stevie McCarry competed on Great British Menu and won the Northern Ireland heat. 

Read about Stevie on the BBC →

  • Condé Nast Traveller

'UK’s Top New Restaurant Award Winner'

In 2024, Lir was named one of the UK’s Top New Restaurants by Condé Nast Traveller, a list celebrating the most exciting and original places to eat across the UK.

Read the full feature →

'The quiet Northern Irish town finally getting its moment in the spotlight'

"A winner in Condé Nast Traveller's 2024 UK's Top New Restaurant Awards, Lir is an essential stop for foodies." Condé Nast Traveller, March 2025

Read the full feature →

  • National Geographic

'Take a peek at the revival of Northern Ireland's coastal cuisine'

“The couple know each of the fishermen who supply their stock, and at the top of every menu is a list of the boats that delivered today's catch.”  — National Geographic, February 2025

Read the full feature →

  • The Times

'Ireland’s 100 best restaurants for 2025'

Named one of Ireland’s 100 Best Restaurants by McKennas' Guides for The Times in 2025.

"When you visit and you taste's Lir superlative fish and shellfish cookery, you will agree 100 per cent." — John & Sally McKenna, March 2025

Read the full feature →

  • The Guardian

‘Born out of a fascination with the sea’ – restaurant review

"In an area not renowned for its ambitious restaurant choices, this is one which deserves to thrive." — Jay Rayner, May 2023

Read the full feature →

  • McKennas' Guides

Best In Ireland 2025

Best In Ireland 2024

Best In Ireland 2023

 



Press Coverage & Reviews

TV & Broadcast

  • Lir featured on The One Show, Saturday Kitchen and Rick Stein’s Food Stories (BBC One)