The insider’s guide to eating out in Belfast

During the Troubles there were few good places to eat because Belfast wasn't safe at night; today good cafes and restaurants are cropping up fast - though you have to search them out. The First Post's top five have been chosen for atmosphere and good value as much as for good food. All have been nominated by people who live and work in the city.

Cayenne 7 Ascot House, Shaftesbury Square Paul Rankine
Northern Ireland's celebrity chef, caused a stir when he opened this dark, smoochy and minimalist eatery and it remains a place to be seen. Menu blends Eastern flavours with Irish ingredients - salt and chilli squid is a favourite first course.
Three courses (Sunday - Friday) set dinner £26.00. contact: 028 9033 1532, cayenne-restaurant.co.uk

The Bay Tree 118 High Street, Holywood
Unpretentious cafe tucked away in this well-heeled town close to City Airport, serving wholesome, imaginative food at reasonable prices. Van Morrison is said to come here for an Ulster fry - fried breakfast with soda and potato bread. Smoked fish chowder and goat's cheese tart are good lunch dishes. Closed tuesday evenings and all day sunday.
Two-course dinner £20 without wine. contact: 028 9042 1419, baytreeholywood.co.uk

Nick's Warehouse 35-39 Hill Street
Buzzes at lunchtime. Most ingredients are local and the gourmet burgers and sausages and champ (mash with spring onions) are favourites. Boarding school puddings include sticky toffee and bread and butter. Friday evenings are lively.
About £15 per head for two-course lunch, without wine. contact: 028 9043 9690, nickswarehouse.co.uk

Deane's Deli44 Bedford Street
Close to the BBC building, this deli with a relaxed wine-bar atmosphere is already popular with media types. You can have a plate of cheese or charcuterie with wine or a three course supper from its short but good menu. Steak frites and chocolate and brandy mousse are staples.
£25 per head for two courses without wine. contact: 028 9024 8800, michaeldeane.co.uk

Grace Neill's 33 High Street, Donaghadee
The journey to this pretty seaside restaurant, for a hearty Sunday lunch with jazz, is worth it. Set lunch from the carvery, or fish and chips with mushy peas, or a vegetarian risotto from the menu. Best washed down with the draught Guinness. The harbour and lighthouse is a gentle walk away.
Set lunch £9.95 for two courses. contact: 028 9188 4595, graceneills.com