Eight new food spots to try this Christmas

Whether you’re planning a special evening out with loved ones, or just need a pit stop during the Christmas shopping, here are some exciting new eateries in Derry and Strabane for you to try this festive season.

Stitch & Weave

Gift yourself stunning views at this new bar and restaurant on Ebrington Square, overlooking Derry’s River Foyle and Peace Bridge.

Enjoy seasonal dishes with local produce, treat your friends to a Prosecco ‘tower’, or order a warming glass of the restaurant’s own newly-launched whiskey, Cask 1782.

Clipper Quay Street Food Market

Does your Christmas crew struggle to agree on what kind of food they’re after? Avoid a festive fallout and head to this bustling Derry street food market, where there’s something to suit everyone’s tastes.

Think juicy smash burgers from Notorious Street Food, giant New York-style pizza slices from Cugino’s, and delicious sweet crepes from Scoops Ahoy, all with views of the River Foyle.

Social Studio

As the name suggests, the atmosphere is as good as the food in this lively restaurant in Derry’s Cathedral Quarter.

Fuel up ahead of some present shopping with the Brunchin’ and Lunchin’ daytime menu, or make an evening of it with dinner and drinks from the extensive cocktail menu.

Café Central

When you purchase coffee, cake or lunch from this Bishop Street café, the money you spend will help women and families supported by its parent charity, Foyle Women’s Aid.

There are some delicious Christmas specials on the menu, and don’t forget to pick up a loyalty card – with the lovely atmosphere, great service and delicious food, you’re sure to be back again.

The Thirsty Filly

This cute and cosy café, located at the Old Schoolhouse in Strabane, serves hot drinks, homebakes and an epic festive toastie with all the trimmings, on Scarpello sourdough.

Left your Christmas shopping to the last minute? There are New Kid coffee beans, reusable cups and cafetieres on sale too – the perfect gift for any coffee aficionado.

The Banks Restaurant

Also in Strabane is award-winning restaurant The Banks, overlooking the banks of the River Mourne. Enjoy the view as you tuck into lunch or dinner with locally sourced, seasonal dishes.

You can even treat yourself to an overnight stay at The Banks, in one of the tastefully decorated en-suite bedrooms above the restaurant.

Castle Bistro

From its new home in Derry’s Craft Village, the Castle Bistro serves up brunch, dinner and cocktails, plus some lip-smacking vegan options.

There are paintings by local artists on the walls, local ingredients on your plate, and local spirits and beers on the drinks menu too.

Oui Bakery

You’ll often find a queue outside Oui Bakery, also in the Craft Village – and once you’ve tried its beautiful bakes, it’s easy to see why.

Parisian chef Laurent Pirone pours decades of expertise into his creations – which include almond croissants, pains au chocolat, sourdough loaves and the seriously indulgent white chocolate and pistachio spiral rolls.

Treat your loved ones – and yourself – to a ‘oui’ treat this Christmas!

If that’s got you in the mood to try out some more of the fantastic restaurants and cafes in the North West, the entire month of February is dedicated to showcasing the LegenDerry food and drink on offer locally.

During Love LegenDerry Food Month, a variety of events and experiences will be held across Derry and Strabane to promote the region’s outstanding food and drink, and the people who produce it.  

The programme includes a range of unique events created by food producers and chefs to showcase the high-quality produce that can be found throughout the region including a Dart Mountain Cheese tour and taste experience which will take you into the heart of the Sperrins to visit Derry’s award-winning artisan cheese producer, the Oyster and Stout Festival celebrating the Lough Foyle Native Oyster, and the launch of the city’s newest food tour, Derry By Fork.

For more information on Love LegenDerry, visit  www.legenderryfood.com/events