New restaurant pays tribute to Belfast’s vibrant culture

SSP Group has opened Flax & Soda, a new casual dining restaurant celebrating the best of Northern Ireland as part of Belfast International Airport’s £100 million investment programme.

Located in the centre of the airport’s transformed Departures Lounge, Flax & Soda is a 280-cover space offering a flexible, all-day dining experience tailored to a wide range of passenger needs.

The venue places Northern Ireland at its core, proudly sourcing from a network of trusted local suppliers. Regional ingredients are showcased throughout the menu and bar offer, from high-quality meats and freshly baked breads to locally produced dairy and a carefully curated selection of local beers and spirits.

According to SSP, local influences impact every touchpoint of the passenger experience.

“One of our key focus areas has been expanding our bespoke airport bar and kitchen concepts grounded in a strong sense of place,” noted Stuart Buchanan, chief property and business development officer at SSP UK & Ireland.

“Flax & Soda is another example of this strategy in action, celebrating the region through a distinctly local proposition that perfectly complements our broad portfolio of F&B units at Belfast International Airport. We’re confident that Flax & Soda will quickly become the best part of the journey for passengers using the airport.”

In 2025, Belfast International Airport embarked on a five-year journey to transform passenger experiences, with SSP playing a significant role in improving the range of F&B outlets into a modern, passenger-friendly hub of dining options.

In the last six months, the food travel experts have already introduced new grab-and-go outlets Soul & Grain, Starbucks and Burger King alongside a fresh look and increased capacity for iconic bar, The Lagan.

The final phase of F&B developments is expected to be complete later this year, including a brand new 300-cover premium bar and kitchen concept.

The airport’s chief commercial officer, Kate Sherry, said: “With a focus on celebrating local flavours and ingredients, this new family-oriented restaurant is designed to offer our passengers a fresh and innovative dining experience.

“Flax and Soda is more than just a dining destination – it’s a tribute to the vibrant culture that makes Belfast and the entire region unique.”