East Belfast's Ballyhackamore has fast become the go-to locale for local and visiting foodies. This self-styled village on the Upper Newtownards Road is just three miles from the city centre and easily accessible by Metro Bus 4 (dept. Donegal Sq. West beside Belfast City Hall).

Newly anointed 'Ballysnackamore', the strip has seen a profusion of restaurant openings in recent years. Neill's Hill (formerly Aldens), Graze and Bistro Este all serve classy cuisine across the day in laid-back yet equally stylish settings.

Asian dining is the nosh of choice at Mandarin Palace, Good Fortune and, for that Indian vibe, Jasmine and Rajput. Pizzas and other Italian eats are the speciality of Il Pirata, Little Wing and Greens. While Acapulco delivers an authentic Mexican dining experience (see main listing).

Horatio Todd's is the 'Hack's hugely popular bar & restaurant and Barista Coffee Shop is its bijou award-winning cafe. Just a few minutes' walk towards the Outer Ring, en route to Stormont, is SD Bell & Co. Tea & Coffee House, founded in 1887 and Belfast's oldest tea and coffee importers.

So head east and experience a night out with the locals.