New 180-seat restaurant and bar creates 40 jobs and enhances passenger experience
Mount Charles has officially opened the new Northern Quarter Bar & Kitchen at Belfast International Airport, marking a major milestone in a £1 million investment designed to transform the passenger dining experience.
The newly redeveloped Northern Quarter replaces the previous food court layout with a modern, 180-seat restaurant and bar, alongside a dedicated Bewley’s coffee dock. The refreshed space introduces a more cohesive, hospitality-led environment, offering passengers greater comfort, choice and quality before departure.
This latest development forms part of Belfast International Airport’s wider £100 million transformation programme and builds on a long-standing partnership between Mount Charles and the airport, which spans more than 20 years.
Designed with passengers in mind, the Northern Quarter features a complete redesign of the space, including upgraded kitchen facilities and flexible seating areas. Whether travellers are looking for a quick coffee or a relaxed dining experience, the new concept caters to a range of needs in a contemporary and welcoming setting.
The opening has also created 40 new jobs, doubling Mount Charles’ team at the airport to a total of 80 employees and reinforcing the company’s ongoing commitment to local investment and employment.
Stacey McAlister, Operations Director at Mount Charles, said:
“The opening of the new Northern Quarter is a significant milestone for our team. We set out to create a space that feels modern, comfortable and reflective of the standards passengers expect from a leading airport.
This investment goes beyond the physical refurbishment. We have recruited and trained an expanded team to deliver a consistent, high-quality service that enhances the overall airport experience. With the addition of a high-quality beverage partner in the form of Bewley’s, we have further strengthened our commitment to improving the airport’s hospitality offering and showcasing the fantastic flavours and products from across the island of Ireland.
Our partnership with Belfast International Airport has grown over two decades, and this next chapter reflects our shared ambition to raise standards and invest locally.”
Dan Owens, Chief Executive Officer at Belfast International Airport, added:
“This investment in the Northern Quarter represents an important part of our airport transformation programme. The new offering will deliver more choice for our passengers and provide a wide range of high-quality food and beverage options in a unique and welcoming space. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Mount Charles as we enhance the passenger experience in the years ahead.”
Belfast International Airport, Northern Ireland’s principal gateway, handles more than 6.7 million passengers each year. The new Northern Quarter is now fully operational and open to all departing passengers.
