Pica Brings mexican magic and masterful margaritas

Pica has arrived on Belmont Road, shaking up East Belfast with authentic Mexican flavours and a fresh, fearless approach to dining.

The restaurant is the brainchild of Adrian Hamilton and Callan Carrigan Cork, who combine complementary skills: Adrian’s eye for numbers and Callan’s culinary expertise. “Callan is the driving force behind the food and the day-to-day operations,” Adrian says. “I get to handle the numbers and spreadsheets, which excite me if I am being honest.”

The menu reflects their philosophy of blending Mexican flavours with local ingredients. Callan explains, “We try to stick to what a Mexican would do if they only had Irish ingredients. That is our principle. We are adapting recipes without losing authenticity.” Standouts include cochinita pibil tacos and a smoky chili potato dish using local potatoes and cheese. “It is not just chips. It is spicy and fun,” Adrian adds.

The bar has quickly become a destination in its own right, with tequila and mezcal at the forefront. “Adrian and I often joke that we have opened a cocktail bar not a restaurant,” Callan says. Their inventive margaritas have become a talking point, with locals returning week after week.

Teamwork is key. “Our staff take real ownership of their stations,” Callan says. “Customers come back not just for us but for Michelle, Chris, and Anna in our team.”

And this is just the beginning. Pica promises a dining experience that is bold, fresh, and unforgettable. Read the full feature in our upcoming magazine to discover how Adrian and Callan turned inspiration into East Belfast’s hottest new culinary destination.