Passengers flying from Belfast International Airport have a new casual dining restaurant to enjoy, as SSP Group opens Flax & Soda in the centre of the Departures Lounge.
Celebrating the best of Northern Ireland, Flax & Soda is a 280-cover space offering a flexible, all-day dining experience tailored to a wide range of passenger needs.
The menu celebrates both local and global influences, from Belfast baps, breakfast naans and soda bread Benedicts in the morning to a varied selection of burgers, curries, fish and chips, Turkish-inspired chicken kebabs and salads later in the day. There is also an extensive choice of alcoholic, soft and hot drinks.
‘Family-Oriented Restaurant’
“Flax and Soda is a most welcome addition to our food and beverage landscape at Belfast International Airport and reflects our vision to transform the airport experience,” said Kate Sherry, chief commercial officer at Belfast International Airport,
“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.”
The venue aims to place 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.
‘Distinctly Local Proposition’
“One of our key focus areas has been expanding our bespoke airport bar and kitchen concepts grounded in a strong sense of place,” said Stuart Buchanan, chief property & 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 food and beverage units at Belfast International Airport.”
Planned Development
In 2025, Belfast International Airport embarked on a five-year journey to transform passenger experiences, with SSP playing a significant role.
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 food and beverage developments is expected to be complete later this year, including a brand new 300-cover premium bar and kitchen concept.