5 Best Places for Food after a Big Night Out

A handy guide to some of Belfast’s most popular late-night food destinations.

So you’ve had a few drinks, and now you need a little something to settle the stomach. And let’s face it, the greasier the better. Nobody’s ever really had a late night craving for lettuce, have they? If that’s your thing, you can make your way to the all-you-can-eat buffet that is Botanic Gardens and feast til the sun comes up. But if that sounds like a drag, here’s a handy guide to where you can get a filling meal.

5. McDonald’s

Great central location at Donegall Place and it has plenty of space to rest your tired bones. Yes McDonald’s is a quick and reliable choice and it can also prove dirt-cheap if you remember about their saver menu. Being open 24 hours a day, the Golden Arches draws everyone like moths to a flame, so you’re guaranteed to meet a few characters (or gaze at them from a safe distance).  Their corporate attention to food safety means any stomach acrobatics are likely your own fault though.

We're lovin it

We’re loving it

4. Domino’s

For pizza lovers and anyone unwilling to queue for food after midnight. Head home, order yourself a Domino’s and maybe even take a nap, because waking up to fresh pizza arriving at your door is always fun. It’s maybe only advisable on Two for Tuesday since it can be expensive enough otherwise, but nothing your student loan can’t handle.

3. New Emerald

Why not wash down that belly full of Jagerbombs with some curry? A match made in heaven! This Dublin Road Chinese is in a great location and they have an extensive menu with something for everyone. You won’t be waiting for long here either as New Emerald is run with the same precision and efficiency as an Apple factory. They also do delivery, if standing upright in a queue is not an option available to you.

Chowing down in the New Emerald

Chowing down in the New Emerald

2. The Chip Company

You’ll never go hungry at the Chip Co! Always a popular choice, it can get busy at times. It’s particularly handy for those who live in Botanic and the Holylands.  Sunglasses are advisable as the fluorescent lighting can lead to sensory overload, especially if you’ve spent all night in the near-dark. And for the poor souls who have temporarily rendered themselves unable to digest food, the Chip Co does breakfast! For when you’re feeling a little bit more up to the challenge.

Crazy for a Chip Co!

Crazy for a Chip Co!

1. The Gilgamesh Grill

Everyone’s favourite Malone Road Lebanese/Mediterranean/Pizza place, Gilgamesh comes out on top for their friendly, cheap and quick service with a smile. With plates stacked high with multi-coloured chicken on display, passersby are powerless to resist. If you fancy yourself a bit of a risk-taker, this could be the spot for you. Fortunately, fighting off hordes of hungry customers to make your order is not a problem you will encounter here and you can generally be in and out in 5 minutes. Malone Road folk wisdom alleges that you can’t cross the threshold sober and although untrue, perhaps this has some merit as advice.

Gilgamesh doing a roaring trade

Gilgamesh doing a roaring trade

Gilgy's is beloved by all

Gilgy’s is beloved by all