It’s controversial but I’ve never been a huge fan of the Belfast Christmas Markets.
Between having to shuffle through the cramped walkways, waiting in the seemingly endless queues and being subjected to a vast array of unique sights and smells it can all feel overwhelming.
However, after a recent visit I’ve gained a completely new perspective and appreciation for the attraction - particularly the festive fare.
With authentic, traditional and flavoursome food at every turn the Christmas Market is the perfect place to experience a taste sensation this festive season.
However, with treats from more than 32 nationalities on offer this is where things can start to feel a bit intense - which is exactly why we visited and reviewed this year’s the top five tastiest food stalls.
Holland Poffertjes
Dutch pancakes with chocolate sauce, £6
If you’ve visited the Christmas Markets in recent years you will have almost certainly seen, heard or smelt the Dutch pancakes – I’d go as far as to say they’re a Christmas Market must.
Known as poffertjes in Holland their name derives from the Dutch word for ‘puff’ which is fairly apt.
However, not only are they little parcels of puffy and fluffy loveliness but the process itself is quite a thing to behold.
Using what’s known as a ‘poffertjes plate’ - which is essentially a baking tray with small dome shaped moulds dotted over it - the professionals quickly fill each mould with pancake batter, let them sizzle for just a few seconds on each side before flicking them out to reveal lovely, piping hot golden-brown pancakes.
Traditionally they’re served with a liberal dusting of icing sugar and a good dollop of melting butter – which is an option when you visit the stall - but we went for the hazelnut and chocolate sauce option instead.
Rich, sticky, sweet and wonderfully light there’s a reason there is always a queue snaking round this place but due to the speed and skill of those serving up this Dutch delicacy it moves fast.
Salt & Pepper
Nacho cheese chicken waffle cone
Sweet honey bbq chicken waffle cone
£7 each
Although I like to think of myself as rather adventurous when it comes to food, I must admit I was sceptical about ordering a ‘chick’n cone’ as the sign hovering above the stall described it.
However, I was pleasantly surprised. Thin moist strips of chicken coated in a crispy slightly spicy crust covered in a sauce of your choosing (nacho cheese/sweet honey bbq/curry/sweet chilli) wrapped up in a massive waffle cone is a combination that shouldn’t work…but it does.
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It’s also a slightly more environmentally friendly option as the cone can act as an edible holder for saucy chicken strips.
Antonio Made In Naples
The Diavola, £12
Made to order and baked in their own woodfired pizza oven you won’t get a fresher or more authentic Napolese pizza anywhere else.
We went for the Diavola which was described as the ‘hot one’ on the menu board.
Usually, I’m not great with chilli but because of the generous layers of salami, pepperoni and mozzarella it gave the pizza a hit of spiciness which combined with the crunch from the paper-thin base took the whole thing to the next level.
And don’t worry if you’re a more traditional pizza person as the menu boasts an impressive 13 options including classics such as pepperoni, margherita and Hawaiian as well as slightly more experimental offerings like their chocolate pizza…
Rossi’s
Apple crumble chimney cake, £7.50
Although they’re known for their authentic Italian ice cream Rossi’s have become a firm favourite at the Christmas Market this year for another reason – their chimney cakes.
Described as an “ice cream cone mixed with a croissant” this sugar and cinnamon coated delight is the perfect sweet treat to try next time you’re walking round the markets.
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The cakes are made fresh on site every day and with more than ten different options to choose from including Biscoff, brownie, strawberry and Oreo you are truly spoiled for choice.
We opted for the hot apple crumble chimney cake and I have to say it was delicious. Filled to the brim with tart, finely chopped apples, topped with a golden crumble and a generous scoop of Rossi’s signature Italian ice cream encased in a crispy chimney cake and drizzled with toffee sauce. What else you could want from a dessert?
The Flavorsymth
Festive Loaded Fries, £9.50
Consisting of turkey, ham, stuffing, gravy, pigs-in-blankets, cranberry sauce and gravy some may argue that The Flavorsymth’s offering is too much, but I would argue that it’s Christmas in a cardboard bowl.
The soft and succulent turkey and ham worked in harmony with velvety gravy-soaked chips. The crispy stuffing adding a bit of texture while the cranberry sauce cut through the heaviness of the dish and added a lovely sweetness to the meat-heavy meal.
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Additionally, The Flavoursymth are also serving up an Armagh dexter steak burger, a veggie burger and curry loaded fries so even if you haven’t been swept up in the Christmas chip craze their menu is still worth perusing.