Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter has an abundance of terrific eateries, and 44 Hill Street is up there with the best. The brasserie’s latest menu celebrates local products and independent producers through delicious dishes influenced by the flavours of France and the Mediterranean.
On our recent visit, we were warmly welcomed by owner Guillaume, and seated in the restaurant’s outdoor garden area. Few people seem to know about this hidden oasis, and it’s a superb spot to enjoy some food and drink in the summer months surrounded by colourful murals, pretty pot plants and flowers, and even the Eiffel Tower makes an appearance!
The menu indicates a fresh new direction for 44 Hill Street, with fewer options, allowing the chefs to create beautifully presented modern dishes, using quality ingredients, and employing fine French techniques.
The “Tasters” section is a collection of excellent small plates, designed for sharing. The Deep Fried Gouda was coated in golden breadcrumbs, resting on a bed of chilli jam, the Truffled Mac & Cheese was creamy and unctuous, packed with gruyère and parmesan, and topped with florets of salt & chilli cauliflower, and the Lamb Koftas were wrapped in a soft flatbread, with yogurt, mint, chilli, and red cabbage.
To follow, the menu is divided into three sections, “Sea, Land, and Plant”, which combine seasonal ingredients with exciting contemporary interpretations of traditional dishes.
We had both “Plant” options; a perfectly chargrilled Hispi Cabbage with umami-rich black garlic and a chilli emulsion, and a quite frankly mind-boggling lowing Lion’s Mane “Burger”-a moist, beetroot-infused mushroom based patty with a satisfyingly meaty texture, served in a charred bap with salad, burger relish, kombu seasoning, and wedges. It’s a must-try for vegans or anyone looking for a meat-free alternative.
And all desserts are made in house by 44’s pastry chef; the Jam & Coconut Sponge was a sophisticated take on a nostalgic “old school” favourite with light sponge, fruity strawberry preserve, coconut, and a silky crème anglaise.
Merci beaucoup, 44 Hill Street, pour ce délicieux repas!
Restaurant website HERE
