Lir in the Press
From national awards to glowing write-ups and the occasional cheeky headline, Lir has caught the attention of critics, guides, and journalists across Ireland and beyond. Here’s a taste of what they’ve been saying.
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.
'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.
'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
'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
'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.”
‘Born out of a fascination with the sea’
“In an area not renowned for its ambitious restaurant choices, this is one which deserves to thrive.” — Jay Rayner, May 2023
McKenna’s Guides
Press Coverage + Reviews
Belfast Live
Mar, 2025
Irish Restaurant Awards – Best in Ulster
Irish Farmers Journal
Jan, 2025
A whole new kettle of fish for seafood lovers
Irish Country Living
Jan, 2025
“Sea Change” – Feature article
Belfast Telegraph
Dec, 2024
“Worthy of a pilgrimage” – Top six dining experiences of 2024
The Newsletter
Jul, 2024
Lir named among best new restaurants in the UK
The Irish Times
Jun, 2024
“Stunning fish in a magical setting by the water’s edge”
Belfast Telegraph
May, 2024
Restaurant review: Majestic spot on the River Bann…
The Irish times
May, 2024
100 great places to eat around Ireland this summer
The Irish News
Jan, 2024
Foodie Finds: Lir, Steamboat, Daisies and Scopers
The Week
Nov, 2023
The UK’s best restaurants of 2023
