East Belfast’s Ballyhackamore has long been nicknamed Ballysnackamore. And with good reason! This charming stretch of Upper Newtownards Road has quietly become one of Belfast’s most exciting little food and drink pockets. Whether you’re after a killer coffee, a bao bun that hits just right, or a local beer in a laid-back setting, this neighbourhood delivers.
And the best part? It’s all walkable. Ballyhackamore is perfect for a weekend wander, where you can stroll, sip, snack and repeat. All while supporting independent businesses that pour passion into what they do.
Here are three of our favourite stops when we’re in the area:
☕ Highwayman Coffee
A proper coffee lover’s spot. Highwayman is known for its sharp branding, excellent tunes, and even better brews. They roast their own beans and always have something interesting on the bar. Whether you’re a flat whiteaholic or in the mood for a filter with a story.
Why we love it:
The team here really know their stuff, but never take themselves too seriously. It’s the kind of place where you’ll come away with both a great coffee and a new favourite playlist.
📍 395 Upper Newtownards Road
📸 @highwaymancoffee
🥟 Banh Boy
Banh with cult status. Banh Boy started as a pop-up and has grown into a full-on flavour institution. The menu’s FULL of tasty — think crispy Korean chicken, sticky pork belly, and tofu options that even meat eaters eye up enviously.
Why we love it:
Fresh, fast and packed with punchy flavours. It’s one of those spots that gets you craving your next visit before you’ve even finished your first banh.
📍 397 Upper Newtownards Road
📸 @banhboybelfast
🍻 Hearth
A relaxed neighbourhood bar with a thoughtful selection of local beers as well as the old favorites. A place where good drinks and good chat go hand in hand. Pull up a stool, order a beer or whiskey from an Irish spot you’ve not tried before, and settle in.
Why we love it:
It’s somewhere you could stay for one – or four. Their support for independent makers matches our own ethos, and we love seeing local beer take centre stage.
📍 379 Upper Newtownards Road
📸 @hearthbelfast
Fancy a guided wander?
Our Wee Taste of Ballyhackamore food tour was made for curious eaters and local lovers alike. Join us for a laid-back afternoon of tastings, stories, and plenty of chat as we explore the best bites in Ballysnackamore together.