Places to eat in Derry/Londonderry

For a restaurant where every plate is as stylish and modern as the decor that surrounds it, head to Brickwork on Castle Street. From steaks and burgers to Asian salads and pasta dishes, the menu spans a range of world cuisines and does them all justice. The drink menu is equally diverse and impressive, with specialty cocktails and lots of choices when it comes to wine and spirits.

Another cosmopolitan eatery in Derry/Londonderry is The Exchange on Queens Quay near the Peace Bridge. The chefs here are able to create an authentic-tasting pasta dish just as easily as they can rustle up some outstanding Mexican fajitas. The restaurants itself if relaxed but very modern. Although it’s a popular spot, the hosts don’t take reservations so you’ll have to take a gamble if you want to eat here. Luckily, there are lots of other great options for you to choose from in the city centre if the waiting time is too long.

When it comes to fine dining in Derry/Londonderry, one restaurant group reigns supreme. That group is responsible for Browns Bonds Hill near the train station and Browns in Town on Strand Road. Cut from the same cloth, these two exquisite eateries serve beautifully presented plates of Michelin-recommended food. The service, atmosphere and accompanying wine menu all live up to the standards of the food, making one or both of these restaurants a must-visit for foodies. 

If you were to gather up all of the city’s locals and ask them where the best Indian cuisine was, they’d nearly all give you one answer: Mama Masala. It’s not far from The Exchange on Queens Quay and consists of a takeaway on the ground floor and a stylish restaurant upstairs. If you’re visiting with someone who doesn’t like curry, Mama Masala serves some great stone-fired pizzas, but the star of the show is their wide menu of Indian classics.

Completing the set of our favourite restaurants in Derry/Londonderry is Mandarin Palace, the best Chinese restaurant in the city. You’ll have to cross the river if you’re heading there from our hotel in Derry/Londonderry, but it is worth it! Think of dumplings, aromatic duck and satay and you’re on the right lines. With a luxurious and comfortable setting, this is a great spot for some superb Asian dining.

If you are in need of a pit-stop whilst exploring the city’s main landmarks, Hidden City Cafe could not be better-placed on London Street. It’s a classic cafe serving up some delicious sandwiches and sweet treats alongside a range of hot and cold drinks.

Equally well-placed near The Derry Walls is Claudes. The menu is scribbled on a large chalkboard behind the counter and appears to contain everything you could want for lunch. We recommend the salads and paninis alongside a high-quality coffee.

Speaking of high-quality coffee, The Coffee Tree on Strand Road knows one or two things on the matter. Their lattes are a work of art and go perfectly with one of their delicious cakes or pastries. If that all sounds a bit too indulgent, opt for one of their fantastic salads instead.