Building a culinary legacy in Belfast

Niall McKenna, one of Northern Ireland’s leading chefs, has left a profound mark on Belfast’s dining scene with his flagship restaurants, James Street and Waterman House.

These venues go beyond offering great food—they embody McKenna’s dedication to hospitality, community, and the cultural heart of Belfast. His latest venture, Waterman House, which he launched with his wife Joanne in 2022, combines a cookery school, corporate events, and creative dining options, establishing a multifaceted space within the city’s Cathedral Quarter.

Waterman House’s journey began long before its official opening. McKenna’s vision for the Cathedral Quarter took shape back in 2013 with his restaurant Hadskis and his collaborative work with local figures like Willie Jack, whose influence helped him see Belfast’s potential as a cultural and culinary hub. “For us, it was never just about bars and restaurants,” McKenna says. “It’s about embracing Belfast’s culture, the arts, and tourism. Willie helped me understand the impact we could make together, which has been inspiring.”

The transformation of Waterman House was not without challenges. Just as the team’s plans were taking shape, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, forcing a pause. “The pandemic delayed us, but we used that time to really refine our vision. By 2022, we were ready to open as a venue that could offer everything from corporate experiences to hands-on cooking classes,” McKenna explains. Today, Thursdays at the cookery school are a popular choice for businesses, where groups enjoy a fun, interactive evening of cooking and socialising. “It’s been incredible to see Waterman House become a space for people to come together in a new way, merging learning with a great night out,” he adds.

McKenna’s focus on talent development has been a cornerstone of his career. His apprenticeship program, in place for over a decade, not only meets staffing needs but cultivates a skilled, dedicated team. “The apprenticeship program is one of my proudest achievements,” he says. “Our apprentices don’t just learn to cook; they gain skills that will stay with them for life. Hospitality is about so much more than food—it’s about communication, resilience, and teamwork.”

In 2023, McKenna launched his debut cookbook, What’s it All About?, showcasing the best of Northern Irish cuisine with a collection of 140 recipes that range from customer favourites to regional specialties. “I wanted the book to be accessible to everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting, it’s a celebration of our local produce and the dishes people love,” he shares.

As he continues to innovate, McKenna remains as committed as ever to his roots in Belfast. “For me, it’s about constant evolution. We’re always refining, whether it’s Waterman House or James Street, and I’m grateful to have a fantastic team to support that growth.” With new projects on the horizon, McKenna’s culinary journey is far from over.

Stay tuned for the full feature this week, where we’ll dive deeper into McKenna’s legacy, his vision for Belfast’s culinary future, and his plans for the next chapter.