With the Michelin Guide sharing their latest gradings this week we decided to look at some of the Belfast eateries which are locally loved, even if they didn't make the list.
Ox Belfast, the Muddler's Club and Deanes Eipic can all rejoice in their well-earned Stars, but we thought it was worth highlighting some other Belfast independent restaurants and local chains which specialise in good no-nonsense food and which are loved in the area.
12 non-Michelin star restaurants which we love:
Maggie Mays
The definition of "a good feed" is to be found at Maggie Mays. With three restaurants, located on Botanic Avenue, Malone Road and Castle Street, Maggie Mays is a popular hub in the city.
It's easy to see why. Maggie Mays is famous for its cheap and cheerful food, ridiculously large fries, and milkshakes. Whether it's a hangover cure or a late-night stop-off meal, Maggie Mays has kept the people of Belfast sorted for years now.
John Long's Fish and Chips
The longest established fish and chip shop in Belfast, John Long's is hidden away behind the Europa Hotel and Great Victoria Street, but offers one of the best fish suppers you're likely to get anywhere.
Just as iconic as the food is the bright red window covers spelling out 'JOHN LONGS' from the street. If you miss it, you need your eyes tested.
Binky's
Similar to Maggie Mays, Binky's Cafe Kitchen specialises in no-nonsense food designed to keep you happy and well-fed.
They have restaurants on the Belmont Road and Dundonald, and they're always thriving, with customers enjoying everything from brunch, to hefty lunches, to late-night BYOB evening meals.
Boojum
The much-loved Belfast-based burrito joint became something of a national empire.
Since opening a decade ago, Boojum has set-up outlets throughout Ireland, north and south, feeding thousands. It all started with a tiny outlet on Botanic Avenue. Boojum is now a Belfast institution.
Pablos Burgers
Located on Church Lane, Pablos is a burger joint in the heart of Belfast's bustling nightlife area. As such, it serves up the most deliciously packed-out burgers that anyone on a night out could ask for.
The food is incredible, meaning that it's not just for late-night revellers - it's for anyone who wants a tasty meal.
French Village
French Village have kept most of Belfast city sorted when it comes to baked goods throughout their decades-long history. They also serve excellent breakfasts, brunches and lunches at their locations on Botanic Avenue and Lisburn Road. If ever a place deserved recognition for the work they do, it's French Village.
Little Italy
Many maintain that this is Belfast's best pizzeria.
Located on Amelia Street opposite the Europa Hotel, it's normally frequented by a late-night crowd after a night out. Staff diligently make the best food going, while contending with, eh, enthusiastic revellers.
Tribal Burger
Another outlet which, like Pablos, does fiendishly good burgers with no frills and just great taste.
Tribal Burger has two restaurants - one on Botanic Avenue and one on Callendar Street - which are popular at all times during the day.
La Taqueria
A small family of independent taco restaurants in Belfast, La Taqueria have won over thousands of people in the city with delicious flavours, mean margaritas, and the best tacos you're likely to find anywhere.
Doorsteps
Located on Lisburn Road, Doorsteps got the seal of approval from Jamie Dornan when he mentioned it as one of his favourite places in Belfas t. If it's good sandwiches you're after, look no further.
Goodfellas Pizza
An Irish-Italian restaurant on Kennedy Way, Goodfellas does some of the best pizzas going.
The restaurant has become something of an institution in West Belfast, and even gets a shout out from Belfast Irish language rap group Kneecap in their song 'Amach Anocht'.
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