1. Mourne Alpacas Ltd
City/Town: Dromore,
Postal Code: BT25 2DG,
Street Address: 60 Levallyreagh Rd,
Country: UK
2. Cameron Landscapes
City/Town: Belfast,
Postal Code: BT8 8JU,
Street Address: Ballylesson House, 148 Ballylesson Road,
Country: UK
3. Thyme Deli
City/Town: Belfast,
Postal Code: BT1 4QN,
Street Address: 13 Church Lane,
Country: UK
4. Ground Up C.B.D Coffee Shop
City/Town: Belfast,
Postal Code: BT13 3BS,
Street Address: 26 Woodvale Rd,
Country: UK
5. Lifestyle Coffee Shop
City/Town: Ballynahinch,
Postal Code: BT24 7AB,
Street Address: 54 Main St,
Country: UK
6. Jensen’s
City/Town: Ballymena,
Postal Code: BT43 6DG,
Street Address: 145 Church Street,
Country: UK
7. Rebecca’s Coffee Shop
City/Town: Enniskillen,
Postal Code: BT74 7DU,
Street Address: The Butter Market Down St,
Country: UK
8. Red Brick Coffee Shop
City/Town: Ballymena,
Postal Code: BT42 4JJ,
Street Address: 29 Raceview Rd,
Country: UK
9. Cafe Cosh
City/Town: Newtownabbey,
Postal Code: BT36 7LS,
Street Address: Unit 14, Valley Business Centre, Church Rd,
Country: UK
10. Westend Coffee Shop
City/Town: Enniskillen,
Postal Code: BT74 7DP,
Street Address: 39 Darling St,
Country: UK
11. Coffee Shop
City/Town: Newry,
Postal Code: BT34 4BH,
Street Address: 25 Greencastle St,
Country: UK
12. Pimento Coffee Shop
City/Town: Craigavon,
Postal Code: BT67 0LH,
Street Address: 101 Main St,
Country: UK
13. The Millwheel
City/Town: Dungannon,
Postal Code: BT70 1HN,
Street Address: 3 Thomas St,
Country: UK
14. Olive Coffee Shop
City/Town: Newry,
Postal Code: BT35 8QS,
Street Address: The Quays,
Country: UK
15. The Old Post Office Coffee & Gift Shop
City/Town: Carrickfergus,
Postal Code: BT38 8TD,
Street Address: 8 Glassillan Court,
Country: UK
16. The Greenhouse Cafe
City/Town: Belfast,
Postal Code: BT1 6EA,
Street Address: 9-15 Queen Street,
Country: UK
17. Where Ya Bean
City/Town: Belfast,
Postal Code: BT8 6PS,
Street Address: 231-237 Saintfield Rd,
Country: UK
18. Cafe Vibe
City/Town: Craigavon,
Postal Code: BT66 6JB,
Street Address: 65b William St,
Country: UK
19. Ruby’s Coffee & Sandwich Bar
City/Town: Enniskillen,
Postal Code: BT74 7EH,
Street Address: 10 High St,
Country: UK
20. Augher Station House
City/Town: Augher,
Postal Code: BT77 0AX,
Street Address: 2 Crossowen Rd,
Country: UK
21. Cafe Eden
City/Town: Craigavon,
Postal Code: BT63 5AX,
Street Address: 31 Carrickblacker Rd,
Country: UK
22. The Auld Bank Coffee Shop
City/Town: Omagh,
Postal Code: BT79 8PH,
Street Address: 1 Main St,
Country: UK
23. Rocca
City/Town: Coleraine,
Postal Code: BT52 1DR,
Street Address: 11 – 15 Bridge Street,
Country: UK
24. Home Sweet Home
City/Town: Donaghadee,
Postal Code: BT21 0AA,
Street Address: 14 High St,
Country: UK
25. Java Junkie
City/Town: Larne,
Postal Code: BT40 1JS,
Street Address: Unit 5a The Laharna Retail Park, Circular Rd,
Country: UK
26. The Coffee Dock
City/Town: Antrim,
Postal Code: BT41 1PA,
Street Address: 9 Greenmount Rd,
Country: UK
27. The Coffee House
City/Town: Limavady,
Postal Code: BT49 0AA,
Street Address: 22a High St,
Country: UK
28. The Dandy Horse Café
City/Town: Carrickfergus,
Postal Code: BT38 7QE,
Street Address: 17a Victoria Rd,
Country: UK
29. The Espresso Bar
City/Town: Ballyclare,
Postal Code: BT39 9AP,
Street Address: 13-15 Market St,
Country: UK
30. Wired Coffee
City/Town: Dungannon,
Postal Code: BT70 1BJ,
Street Address: 34 Market Sq,
Country: UK
31. Café Parisienne
City/Town: Belfast,
Postal Code: BT1 6FD,
Street Address: 3-4 Upper Queen St,
Country: UK
32. Cafe 23
City/Town: Belfast,
Postal Code: BT1 1AA,
Street Address: 23 Main St,
Country: UK
33. Harbour Coffee
City/Town: Bangor,
Postal Code: BT20 5BD,
Street Address: 22 High St,
Country: UK
34. The Beanery
City/Town: Downpatrick,
Postal Code: BT30 6EH,
Street Address: 27 Church St,
Country: UK
35. The Larder Café
City/Town: Armagh,
Postal Code: BT61 7AA,
Street Address: 8a Main St,
Country: UK
36. The Coffee Cabin
City/Town: Belfast,
Postal Code: BT7 3GS,
Street Address: 66 Ormeau Rd,
Country: UK
37. The Grind Café
City/Town: Belfast,
Postal Code: BT9 6AB,
Street Address: 18 Lisburn Rd,
Country: UK
38. Belfast Coffee Co.
City/Town: Belfast,
Postal Code: BT2 7BB,
Street Address: 28-30 Great Victoria St,
Country: UK
39. Cafe Cino
City/Town: Belfast,
Postal Code: BT12 6HR,
Street Address: 16 Boucher Rd,
Country: UK
40. The Café at The MAC
City/Town: Belfast,
Postal Code: BT1 2NJ,
Street Address: 10 Exchange St W,
Country: UK
41. Café in the Park
City/Town: Belfast,
Postal Code: BT1 5RN,
Street Address: 21 Market Hill,
Country: UK
42. The Plaza Café
City/Town: Belfast,
Postal Code: BT1 2FE,
Street Address: 65 Donegall Pl,
Country: UK
43. The Fair Café
City/Town: Portaferry,
Postal Code: BT22 1PB,
Street Address: 12 The Square,
Country: UK
44. Riverside Café
City/Town: Coleraine,
Postal Code: BT52 1ST,
Street Address: 14 Riverside Rd,
Country: UK
45. Avenue Coffee
City/Town: Armagh,
Postal Code: BT61 7HZ,
Street Address: 6A Leonard’s Way,
Country: UK
46. The Green Coffee Shop
City/Town: Maghera,
Postal Code: BT46 5BY,
Street Address: 23 Glen Rd,
Country: UK
47. Maggie’s Café
City/Town: Newry,
Postal Code: BT34 1AG,
Street Address: 12 Hill St,
Country: UK
48. The Old Courthouse Café
City/Town: Coleraine,
Postal Code: BT52 1AR,
Street Address: 5 Church Lane,
Country: UK
49. Coffee House at Stormont
City/Town: Belfast,
Postal Code: BT4 3SA,
Street Address: 1 Stormont Estate,
Country: UK
50. The Coffee Pot
City/Town: Portadown,
Postal Code: BT62 3JL,
Street Address: 27 Bridge St,
Country: UK
Coffee culture has exploded in recent years, and Northern Ireland is no exception. The rise of independent coffee shops and specialty roasters, alongside established international chains, has significantly shaped the coffee scene across the region. Whether you’re seeking a quick espresso, a flat white, or a leisurely cappuccino with a slice of cake, Northern Ireland offers a wide variety of coffee shops, each with its unique vibe and selection of blends. This article explores the coffee shop culture in Northern Ireland, from bustling city centers to tranquil coastal retreats, showcasing the best places to grab a coffee in the region.
The Coffee Scene in Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland has seen a boom in artisan coffee shops over the past decade, particularly in cities like Belfast, Derry-Londonderry, and Bangor. The coffee culture is defined by a growing appreciation for high-quality, ethically sourced beans, skilled baristas, and a focus on sustainability. While global coffee chains like Starbucks and Costa Coffee have their place, it’s the independent and specialty coffee shops that truly stand out, offering a more personal and unique experience for coffee lovers.
Top Coffee Shops in Northern Ireland
1. Established Coffee – Belfast
Located in the heart of Belfast, Established Coffee is a beloved independent coffee shop known for its relaxed atmosphere and premium coffee. Specializing in ethically sourced, locally roasted beans, the coffee shop offers a wide range of espresso-based drinks, pour-over options, and cold brews. The minimalist design of the café, combined with the friendly service and top-notch coffee, has made it a local favorite. The menu also includes pastries and light bites, making it the perfect spot for a mid-morning or afternoon pick-me-up.
2. The Coffee House – Belfast
The Coffee House is a well-established café in Belfast, known for its specialty coffee and commitment to quality. Located on the trendy Lisburn Road, this coffee shop serves a variety of single-origin coffees, all of which are roasted with precision to bring out their unique flavors. The baristas at The Coffee House are passionate about coffee and are always ready to recommend something new for adventurous coffee drinkers. They also offer a selection of homemade cakes, sandwiches, and breakfast options, making it a great place to relax or meet friends.
3. The Waringstown Coffee Company – Waringstown
For those outside of Belfast, The Waringstown Coffee Company provides a cozy, charming setting to enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Located in the heart of the small village of Waringstown, this coffee shop offers an excellent selection of coffee made from locally roasted beans. The shop’s inviting ambiance, with vintage décor and a relaxed vibe, encourages customers to linger and savor their coffee. Alongside the coffee, they serve delicious homemade pastries, sandwiches, and soups.
4. Café Nero – Various Locations
Café Nero is one of the few chain coffee shops that has earned a loyal following in Northern Ireland. With several locations throughout Belfast, Bangor, and other towns, Café Nero offers a reliable, consistent coffee experience. Known for its Italian-inspired menu, Café Nero serves rich espresso drinks, creamy lattes, and indulgent hot chocolate. Their food menu includes sandwiches, salads, and pastries, which complement the coffee perfectly. While it is a chain, Café Nero’s focus on quality coffee and inviting atmosphere has made it a favorite among locals.
5. Wildflower Café – Derry-Londonderry
Wildflower Café, located in the heart of Derry-Londonderry, is a gem for coffee enthusiasts. This vibrant and stylish café is known for its creative drinks and innovative approach to coffee. Wildflower’s menu includes seasonal offerings that showcase the best of local ingredients and artisan coffee. The café also emphasizes sustainability, sourcing beans from ethical producers and using environmentally friendly practices. Beyond coffee, Wildflower offers delicious homemade cakes, vegetarian dishes, and light bites, making it a popular spot for brunch or lunch.
6. Ground Espresso Bar – Belfast, Lisburn, and Beyond
Ground Espresso Bar is a beloved local chain with several locations throughout Northern Ireland, including Belfast and Lisburn. Known for its consistently high-quality coffee and warm, welcoming environment, Ground is a popular choice for coffee lovers. The chain serves expertly crafted espressos, flat whites, and macchiatos, using locally roasted beans. Ground is also known for its friendly service and inviting spaces, with many locations offering a modern, chic atmosphere perfect for working or socializing. Their food menu, which includes cakes, sandwiches, and breakfast options, is designed to complement their coffee offerings.
7. The Nook Coffee – Bangor
Situated in Bangor, The Nook Coffee is a hidden gem that has quickly gained a reputation for its quality coffee and welcoming ambiance. The small but cozy café serves a variety of specialty coffees, from classic espressos to unique creations. They focus on using ethically sourced beans, and the baristas are always happy to chat with customers about their choices. In addition to their coffee, The Nook offers a range of homemade cakes, pastries, and light bites, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed break.
8. Kaffe O – Belfast and Derry-Londonderry
Kaffe O is another excellent independent coffee shop with locations in Belfast and Derry-Londonderry. The café is known for its Scandinavian-inspired design and relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Kaffe O serves some of the best specialty coffee in the region, with beans sourced from some of the top roasters in the UK and beyond. The coffee menu is diverse, offering a range of espresso-based drinks, pour-over coffee, and iced coffee options. The food offerings, including cinnamon buns and hearty sandwiches, complement the coffee perfectly.
9. The Espresso Bar at St. George’s Market – Belfast
Located within the iconic St. George’s Market in Belfast, The Espresso Bar is a must-visit for coffee lovers in the city. This small but bustling coffee bar serves expertly brewed espresso drinks and is popular with both locals and tourists visiting the market. The baristas at The Espresso Bar are highly skilled, and the coffee is always fresh and full of flavor. Whether you’re grabbing a quick espresso before exploring the market or sitting down for a more leisurely coffee, The Espresso Bar is a prime spot for high-quality brews in the heart of Belfast.
10. The Blacksmith’s Coffee Shop – Moira
For a peaceful retreat in the countryside, The Blacksmith’s Coffee Shop in Moira offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Located in a charming building with a rustic, country feel, this café is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle. The Blacksmith’s Coffee Shop serves an excellent range of coffee made with beans from local roasters. The menu also features delicious homemade cakes, savory snacks, and hearty breakfast options. With its picturesque setting, it’s an ideal place to unwind and enjoy a hot cup of coffee.
Coffee Trends in Northern Ireland
1. Specialty Coffee
The shift towards specialty coffee has become a defining feature of the coffee shop scene in Northern Ireland. Independent coffee shops, in particular, are embracing high-quality beans sourced from local roasters and international coffee farms that focus on sustainability. These shops prioritize coffee as an artisanal product, and many offer a variety of brewing methods, such as pour-over, Aeropress, and siphon coffee.
2. Plant-Based Options
With the growing interest in plant-based diets, many coffee shops in Northern Ireland now offer a range of dairy alternatives, such as oat milk, almond milk, and soy milk. This trend has made coffee more inclusive, catering to those with lactose intolerance or vegans seeking a delicious cup of coffee without animal-derived products.
3. Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing
Many coffee shops in Northern Ireland are becoming more environmentally conscious, focusing on ethical sourcing of coffee beans and minimizing waste. Some cafes are using biodegradable cups and compostable straws, while others have embraced refillable cup schemes to encourage customers to reduce their plastic usage.
Conclusion
Coffee shops in Northern Ireland have come a long way, with an ever-growing number of independent cafes offering exceptional coffee, unique atmospheres, and delicious food. From the bustling streets of Belfast to the quieter corners of Waringstown and Moira, Northern Ireland’s coffee scene is diverse and vibrant. Whether you’re after a traditional espresso or a more adventurous brew, there’s something for everyone in Northern Ireland’s coffee shops, making them the perfect place to relax, work, or socialize over a great cup of coffee.