Neill’s Hill to expand into former Il Pirata premises

Neill’s Hill, a well-established restaurant in Ballyhackamore, East Belfast, has announced plans to expand into the premises recently vacated by Il Pirata at 279 Upper Newtownards Road.

Il Pirata ceased trading at the end of service on 27 July 2025, after operating for more than a decade at the site. Neill’s Hill made its announcement shortly after, confirming that it would take over the location and launch a new hospitality venture.

In a public statement released via social media, Neill’s Hill said:

“Big news, Ballyhackamore! We’re taking over the Il Pirata site and bringing something brand new to the neighbourhood. Fresh space. Fresh energy. Coming soon. Don’t worry, it’s business as usual at Neill’s Hill. Watch this space.”

Neill’s Hill continues to operate from its current location at 229 Upper Newtownards Road, where it has been based for more than two decades. It trades under Neill’s Hill Restaurant Limited, a company incorporated in Northern Ireland on 24 June 1971. The business is directed by Jonathan Hendry Wilson Davis and Andrew Graeme Wilson Davis, who were both appointed on 1 December 2011.

Both directors are part of a long-standing family involved in Northern Ireland’s hospitality sector. Jonathan Davis manages Neill’s Hill directly, while Andrew Davis previously operated Papa Joe’s in Belfast.

At this stage, no further details have been released regarding the new venture’s branding, opening timeline, or operating model. Neill’s Hill has confirmed that service at its original site will continue as normal.