Belfast Restaurant Week: A chance to celebrate our sector

Chris McCracken, Managing Director of LQ BID

This October, Belfast Restaurant Week returns to our city centre. Ahead of the celebrations, it’s crucial to reflect on the resilience of Belfast’s hospitality industry – a sector that has demonstrated remarkable adaptability despite many challenges, from the global pandemic to the rising cost of living and doing business.

The food and drink industry in Belfast is more than just a collection of restaurants, cafes, and bars, it’s the economic backbone of our city. It is a significant employer, providing jobs across a wide spectrum of skill levels and contributing substantially to the city’s GDP. Furthermore, the industry acts as a magnet for tourism, attracting visitors from across Northern Ireland but also from around the world, eager to experience our unique culinary offerings.

This sector however is under considerable strain. Increased expenses, including those associated with energy, wages, and produce are squeezing margins at a time when consumer spending has become more cautious. This pressure has already led to the unfortunate closure of several well-established venues within our own district and throughout the city, highlighting the need for support and a coordinated, strategic response to aid the long-term sustainability of the sector.

Belfast Restaurant Week, hosted by Belfast’s three Business Improvement Districts – Linen Quarter BID, Belfast One, and Cathedral Quarter BID – plays a vital role in this effort. The event provides a platform for local businesses to showcase their offerings to a wider audience and drive mid-week footfall. In 2023 we had remarkable success, with 49 restaurants taking part, leading to an estimated £190K additional spend across the city centre.

Traditionally, the week-long event has been focused on price-led promotions, creating footfall through discounts and special offers. Recognising the need to support a wider range of venues and to appeal to a more diverse audience, we have shifted the focus to experience-led offerings. This change not only empowers more establishments to participate but also enhances the overall appeal of the event to food and drink lovers.

Experience-led offers allow businesses to showcase their creativity and the unique aspects of their expertise, whether through themed nights, exclusive tastings, or interactive culinary experiences. This approach not only adds value for consumers but also drives higher engagement and stronger customer loyalty, ultimately contributing to the long-term sustainability of the industry.

Collaboration is key to overcoming the challenges facing our hospitality sector. Events like Belfast Restaurant Week provide a valuable opportunity for local businesses to connect, share resources, and forge new partnerships. The hospitality industry thrives on the interconnectedness of its players, from suppliers and producers to chefs and restaurateurs. By participating, businesses can support a stronger, more resilient industry.

Moreover, the event plays a crucial role in community engagement, bringing together residents and visitors alike to celebrate Belfast’s rich culinary heritage. It fosters a sense of pride in our local offerings and encourages people to explore new venues and experiences, driving not just economic activity but also a deeper connection to our city.

As the Managing Director of Linen Quarter BID, I am immensely proud of the role we play in supporting the sector. Our mission is to create an environment where businesses can flourish, and Restaurant Week is a prime example of how we achieve this.

As we look forward to the 2024 Belfast Restaurant Week, I am hopeful it will once again highlight the incredible resilience and innovation of our food and drink industry. Despite the significant challenges we face, there is an opportunity to drive growth, boost tourism, and enhance community engagement through strategic initiatives and collective effort.

I encourage everyone to join us this October in celebrating the diverse offerings of our city’s food and drink establishments. Together, we can support the continued success of Belfast’s hospitality industry, ensuring it remains a vital part of our city’s economy.

For more information on Belfast Restaurant Week and upcoming offers visit belfastrestaurantweek.org.