
Mourne Seafood Bar
An iconic Belfast seafood restaurant offering fresh, locally sourced catches in a relaxed, nautical atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Mourne Seafood Bar

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic Belfast seafood restaurant offering fresh, locally sourced catches in a relaxed, nautical atmosphere.
"The BEST seafood chowder, seafood casserole and squid ink risotto! What a way to start our Belfast trip!"
Book for Weekends
Strongly recommended to book a table, especially for weekend dining, to avoid disappointment.
Visit Off-Peak
Try visiting during off-peak hours or days to avoid popular items running out early.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Seafood
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+44 28 9024 8544
Address
34-36 Bank St, Belfast, BT1 1HL, United Kingdom
Website
mourneseafood.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Seafood Chowder Perfection
A sensational seafood lucky dip, this chowder is light, luxuriously creamy, and generously seasoned.

Fresh Oysters & Shellfish
Sourced directly from their own beds at Carlingford Lough, these oysters are a must-try for any seafood lover.

Creative Seafood Dishes
From scallop risotto to langoustine wontons, discover flavorful and unique preparations of the day's catch.
Plans like a pro.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book for Weekends
Strongly recommended to book a table, especially for weekend dining, to avoid disappointment.
Visit Off-Peak
Try visiting during off-peak hours or days to avoid popular items running out early.
Try The Shack
For a more relaxed experience, check out 'The Shack' for a street food menu with seafood.
Don't Skip Sides
Parmesan truffle fries are a must-try, offering a delicious accompaniment to seafood dishes.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book for Weekends
Strongly recommended to book a table, especially for weekend dining, to avoid disappointment.
Visit Off-Peak
Try visiting during off-peak hours or days to avoid popular items running out early.
Try The Shack
For a more relaxed experience, check out 'The Shack' for a street food menu with seafood.
Don't Skip Sides
Parmesan truffle fries are a must-try, offering a delicious accompaniment to seafood dishes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mourne Seafood Bar is celebrated for its fresh, high-quality seafood and lively, coastal-themed atmosphere. Diners rave about the seafood chowder, oysters, and creative dishes. While generally praised for value and service, some reviews mention minor inconsistencies in dish preparation or seasonal variations affecting certain items.
"Came here with friends while visiting Belfast and this was the best dinner experience of our trip.
All of the staff were great, but a special mention to Louise who was funny, attentive and super friendly. The food was excellent and the atmosphere really relaxed.
Not the cheapest restaurant in Belfast but worth every penny. We would definitely return."
David Simkins
"The cuttlefish risotto was very good, the couscous salad was bland and needed much more oil. The shrimp and crab were excellent. The mussels, however, were not good in terms of taste or smell. We asked, and they told us that unfortunately, mussels are like this during this season. Overall, we left satisfied."
murat kurukafa
"Absolutely fantastic food in a lovely atmosphere. We had the seafood chowder, langoustine won ton, scallop and chorizo risotto and the seabass. Everything was so flavoursome and fresh."
Gem
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The restaurant is most famous for its incredibly fresh seafood, particularly its highly praised seafood chowder and oysters sourced from Carlingford Lough.
Yes, it is strongly recommended to book a table, especially for weekend dining, to ensure you can get a spot.
Yes, they have 'The Shack' which offers a more relaxed outdoor dining experience with a street food menu.
Diners often recommend trying creative dishes like scallop risotto, langoustine wonton, or even a full seabream.
While not the cheapest, it's considered good value for the quality of seafood and dining experience.
Yes, even with shellfish allergies, there are plenty of delicious options available.
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A restaurant fast approaching "iconic" status in Belfast, Mourne Seafood Bar, or MSB, is never less than good value, but, not unexpectedly, dinners break this series's self-imposed £10-a-head limit. But slip in during the day, when certain dishes are slightly cheaper, and you will feel less self-conscious about just snacking on a starter portion of locally smoked salmon, Santa Fe fishcakes with salad and guacamole, a medium pot of mussels (£6.50), or half a dozen oysters from Mourne's own shellfish beds at Carlingford Lough. Seafood chowder is ubiquitous in Belfast, but MSB chef Andy Rae's version (£5) is light and luxuriously creamy, a sensational seafood lucky dip mined with a little potato and generously seasoned with leek and garlic.
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The Mourne Seafood Bar has become a household name in Northern Ireland, with restaurants in Belfast and Dundrum. The seafood chowder is a favourite and is sold at the annual Continental Christmas Market, but it’s also available year-round in their Belfast restaurant, adjacent to the City Centre. This menu is perfect for a fish lover who doesn’t care for fussy flavours, as the Mourne Seafood Bar serves up fresh and traditional fish, including a range of shellfish dishes sourced from their own shellfish beds in Carlingford Lough.
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Connoisseurs of fresh fish and shellfish love Mourne Seafood, hidden down a side street and established as a firm favorite. Mussels are from Strangford Lough while oysters are sourced from shellfish beds in Carlingford Lough. Fresh seafood comes direct each day from the local ports of Annalong and Kilkeel and depend on the day's catch.
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If seafood is your thing, then Mourne Seafood Bar is one incredible spot you need to add to your list for your next visit to the city. A relaxed and friendly restaurant with nautically-themed decor, this spot has an atmosphere that perfectly matches the high-quality creative menu. Offering two dining experiences, depending on what you’re in the mood for, guests can choose to enjoy a sit down meal at the indoor Mourne Seafood Bar restaurant, which offers a creative a la carte menu, or alternatively, you can opt for a more relaxed dining experience at the incredible Shack, which boasts an outdoor covered and heated beer garden with a casual street food menu.
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I’ve always had a great time at Mourne Seafood Bar and, though I could only stop for oysters with shallot and apple dressing at Danny Millar’s Stock Kitchen and Bar, several people I spoke with nominated it as their favourite spot. The set menus at Blank, near Queen’s University, are a rich journey of Northern Irish provenance, Tyrone oxtail and all. Political tourists might find it interesting to have lunch at Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich, an Irish-language gallery, bookshop and performance venue in a decommissioned Protestant church in the Falls Road, or the Felons Club, set up by Republican ex-prisoners in an old Methodist meeting house.
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The smell from this seafood haven wafts through the surrounding streets, guiding customers to its front door all day, every day. The Mourne Seafood Bar is a Belfast legend, as is MSB chef Andy Rae's Seafood Chowder; light and luxuriously creamy, a sensational seafood lucky dip mined with a little potato and generously seasoned with leek and garlic, served with, who’d have guessed, wheaten bread. Team it Pair it with a half of Mourne's Oyster Stout for a real flavour of Belfast on the cheap.
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Address: 34-36 Bank St, Belfast BT1 1HL, United KingdomPhone: +44 28 9024 8544Website:mourneseafood.comDetails: $$, Seafood restaurant. Nestled in Belfast, the renowned Mourne Seafood Bar has garnered a reputation as a haven for seafood enthusiasts seeking the freshest and most sustainable culinary experiences. This eatery’s commitment to celebrating locally sourced seafood has earned it praise from esteemed critics, including recognition from the Observer Food Monthly Awards.
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If you are looking for a sit-down fish and chips meal in a bustling seafood restaurant, then this classy option is for you. This is an ideal option for a nice dinner with family and friends, where you can indulge in the freshest seafood while sipping on some delicious wine from their extensive wine list or a pint or two of ale. Customers are drawn to the attractive décor, featuring an exposed brick wall, barrel tables, and outdoor seating, which is ideal for a sunny day.
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2024 Review: “Very atmospheric, rustic and friendly, and with exceptional seafood” – this cosy venue is one of the best-known in the city (and also has a sister establishment in Dundrum) – “have eaten here several times and would certainly recommend it”. Last year we commented on its excellent newly extended beer garden with gazebos, which in July 2023 was the victim of an arson attack – here’s hoping it’s soon restored to its former glory.
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Belfast’s take on seafood chowder brings together the best of land and sea by starting with a base of potatoes, cream, and smoked bacon. Added into the mix are cod, smoked haddock, salmon, mussels, and clams (with varying combinations depending on where you order the sublime soup). Made in Belfast always has chowder on the menu, while chef Michael Deane’s Love Fish is a sure bet for fantastic chowder and other fresh seafood dishes.
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Mourne Seafood Bar at Bank Street specialises in Seafood cooked with local ingredients and never disappoints. As a starter, you should try the crab claws in spiced chilli butter… these come in their own frying pan with oodles of butter which you can soak up with fresh bread. Try the oyster’s au Naturel, seafood stew/ casserole, mussels with Mediterranean korma sauce and fish and chips…everything is ultra-fresh and flavourful.
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If you want to dine in true opulent style, I would highly recommend Berts Jazz Bar, at the five star Merchant Hotel. I know what you’re thinking, the alarm bells have started ringing and you fear that it is going to cost you an arm and a leg!. But, from 5-10pm, Sunday – Thursday and for the 6pm sitting only on a Friday, there is a set menu and you can have two courses for £19.95 or three for £22.95.
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Slink into Berts Jazz Bar at the Merchant for live music seven nights a week and a menu inspired by the iconic jazz capitals of the world: New York, Havana, London, Paris and New Orleans. The same hotel also serves exceptional drinks adjoining the Great Room restaurant at the Merchant Cocktail Bar, which could well be the most beautifully crafted and appointed cocktail joint in all the land.
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Well, that’s the vibe at this unsplashy bar and restaurant where some of Belfast’s best seafood pairs with friendly vibes and fresh beer. Dinner sees more creative plates come to the fore – think lemon-baked salmon with dill, or hake with shellfish ragout and a parmesan crust – but, either way, everything is done with heart, with a drinks list set to please more exploratory palates.
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Close to the centre, meanwhile, is the Mourne Seafood Bar (34-35 Bank Street, T: 028 9024 8544) which belongs to my old right-hand man, Andy Rea. He’s caught the new wave of interest in seafood with a gastronomic menu of everything from smart fish and chips to Lough Neagh pollan niçoise – its spare banquette-and-blackboard décor attracts all sorts.
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If you are a fan of seafood chowder, then put this Belfast institution on your list. This fish restaurant doesn’t opt for trends or fads but instead focuses on serving up fresh, traditional fish to a really high standard. The shellfish, which are sourced from the restaurant’s own shellfish beds in Carlingford Lough, are particularly delicious.
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One of Belfast’s unique selling points is its proximity to the sea. For the city’s culinary industry, that factor means access to some high-quality ingredients. One restaurant making the most of Belfast’s advantageous location is Mourne Seafood Bar on Bank Street, a chic eatery that knows how to put on a show.
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Mourne Seafood Bar on Bank Square serves fresh local seafood at affordable prices. From mussels, oysters and langoustines to classic beer battered fish and chips, food is prepared in a traditional way with a few continental twists. Perfect something filling for lunch, or for a romantic evening meal for two.
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Belfast has long needed a restaurant like this, but no one has endeavoured to open it. Even though we live on an island, our connection with the water is fraught with distrust and apprehension. Andy Rea, a former Paul Rankin wingman, disagreed and established the Mourne Seafood Bar in 2008 to rave reviews.
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A sandwich board sign will lead you to Mourne Seafood Bar, recently opened by Andy Rae, who was previously head chef with Paul Rankin at Roscoff and Cayenne, and business partner Bob McCombrey, of the original Mourne Seafood Bar in Dundrum, Co Down, who have their own shellfish beds on Carlingford Lough.
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Andy Rea is the chef behind this amazing restaurant in Bank square which has also great traditional music venues. The mussels, langoustines and oysters are sourced from their own shellfish beds. The Mourne Seafood is listed in the Michelin guide and is renowned for its friendly service and ambience.
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Now an institution, having started off in the seaside village of Dundrum, Mourne Seafood is the go-to establishment for many looking for a fresh catch at its Belfast city centre restaurant. Get stuck into your scampi, mussels and more, and head to Kelly’s Cellars for a pint of the black stuff after.
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Held in high regard by locals and tourists alike, Mourne Seafood Bar in Belfast flaunts trendy bare-brick walls and vintage light fixtures, not to mention a mouthwatering menu. Get your smackers around dishes like butter-roasted hake or curried monkfish, paired with beers, cocktails or wine.
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Mourne Seafood Bar specialises in carefully hand-picked and locally sourced shellfish. The shellfish is picked from their own independently-run shellfish beds, meaning it is always fresh. This Belfast restaurant is definitely a paradise for seafood enthusiasts.
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The Mourne Seafood Bar is a household name in Northern Ireland, with restaurants in Belfast and Dundrum. If you're a fan of fish then this place is #1 on your foodie bucketlist!. Their seafood chowder and oysters are incredibly popular...for a good reason!
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A stone’s throw from Strangford Lough, Balloo House is among the many local restaurants cooking up a storm with shellfish. Its fresh seafood specials changing daily and include steamed Strangford mussels with Farmageddon beer and toasted soda bread.
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Ox, Shu, Mourne Seafood, Kitch and the Barking dog are all worthy of your wallet!. For Asian cuisine, we love Sakura and Zen, and there are far too many fabulous Indian restaurants to name (but we must give honourable mention to the Archana)
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La Taqueria’s journey started as a conversation between two friend, Steve and Andy (Home Restaurant and Mourne Seafood Bar), and their dream of opening an authentic Mexican restaurant filled with tequila, mezcal, cervezas and great music.
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A 30-minute drive from Belfast city centre, Mourne Seafood Bar offers customers fresh local seafood at an affordable price. If you’re a fan of seafood it’s basically THE best place to eat in Belfast. The seafood chowder is to die for.
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A cozy spot in Belfast with a unique menu, offering delicious dishes and accommodating various dietary needs. Good food, love the oysters and squid. Very good service and they were able to easily cater for my wife, who is Gluten Free
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Mourne Seafood Bar – This cosy seafood bar offers fresh produce from local fishermen daily. Try their amazing fish chowder or any of their freshly-caught specials. It’s a popular spot so make sure to book ahead!
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Or go bistro, with a New York vibe, at local favourite James St. And as no romantic getaway is complete without oysters, try Mourne Seafood Bar - a great city centre spot for freshly-caught affordable seafood.
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If you’re looking for fantastic fresh seafood in Belfast then look no further than Mourne Seafood Bar. Having been open since 2008, Mourne serves top quality fish dishes in a relaxed rustic setting.
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The Mourne Seafood Bar pride themselves on their affordable, fresh and local seafood. They even source the shellfish they use from their very own shellfish beds!. 34- 36 Bank Street, BT1 1HL
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As the name suggests, this restaurant specializes in fresh seafood, and its central location in the city's heart makes it a popular spot for locals and tourists. www.mourneseafood.com
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Mr Rea formerly worked in Paul Rankin's acclaimed Roscoff restaurant and is now owner of Belfast's Mourne Seafood Bar and Home restaurants, as well as Belfast Cookery School.
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Being a port city, Belfast is home to some incredible seafood eateries, and Mourne Seafood Bar easily claims its spot as one of the best seafood restaurants in the city.
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The Mourne Seafood Bar is a household name in Northern Ireland. They source all their shellfish from their very own shellfish beds in Carlingford Lough.
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Kelly's Cellar is a great pub with plenty of outside space and right next door to the Mourne Seafood Bar who do light snacks as well as meals.
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Whether it was for Wolf And Devour’s scotch eggs, On The Hoof’s bacon loin or Mourne Seafood’s lobster burger — the queues didn’t let up.
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Oysters were I think £18 for a half dozen which cost £9 in Mourne Seafood Bar. Crazy prices also Mourne Seafood Bar is great.
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