This is my collection of the best places to visit across the Antrim & Newtownabbey area.
All the top rated local businesses pulled together in one place to save you the hassle of endless searching.
Rather than guessing or relying on one person’s opinion, every place featured here has earned its spot through real customer Google reviews.
I’ve sifted through Google business listings, reviews, and ratings for each town, pulling together what locals are really saying and how they consistently rate the places they visit.
Ballyclare
Ballyclare might be small, but it’s full of character and charm.
Its historic streets, listed buildings like the old town hall, and welcoming community make it a favourite for locals looking for something to eat or drink.
Let’s start with the best coffee shop in Ballyclare.
According to local reviewers Pots of Pleasure is their top rated with an average of 4.8 stars and over 400 reviews.
Moving on to the best restaurant in Ballyclare.
McConnells of Doagh takes the top spot with an average star rating of 4.7 and over 400 reviews also.
Glengormley
Glengormley might feel like a typical suburban town at first glance, but it’s full of spots that locals genuinely love.
From the Movie House and Sport’s Bowl to the Lillian Bland Pavilion and community park, there is plenty to see and do.
Where is the best place to have coffee in Glengormley?
Well, it might seem a bit different, but the cafe with the highest ratings in Glengormley is Happy Littles Play Cafe.
They have an average of 4.9 stars and over 100 reviews.
Antrim
Antrim is probably the best-known spot in the borough, and if you’ve already been exploring places like Antrim Castle Gardens or around Lough Neagh, chances are you’ll be ready for a good feed.
The town has a solid mix of cafés, casual spots, and proper sit-down restaurants, so you’re never stuck for choice.
Let’s start with coffee.
One of the highest-rated spots locally is The Stables Coffee Shop, which sits right inside the Castle Gardens.
It’s got that relaxed, scenic setting, and consistently strong reviews. The kind of place you end up lingering a bit longer than planned.
Moving on to the best restaurant in Antrim town.
Top of the Town regularly comes out on top with locals, holding an average rating of around 4.5 stars and thousands of reviews.
It’s right in the centre, the menu covers all bases, and it’s one of those reliable spots that’s always busy for a reason.
That’s Simply The Best
And that’s my collection of the best places to visit across the Antrim & Newtownabbey area.
Whether you’re after a cosy café, a bustling restaurant, or a hidden gem you didn’t know about, this page is your shortcut to the spots people keep coming back to.
I’ll be adding more towns and places over time, so bookmark this page and check back whenever you’re looking for somewhere new to try.

