A Slice of Home Comfort
By Paula Gracey – Food & Drink Columnist
Paula Gracey delights in the arrival of her favourite Orto Pizza restaurant, now right on her doorstep in Belfast.
The Arrival of Orto on Antrim Road
Normally when a pizza arrives at the door, it comes in a takeaway box. But when we heard that Orto, one of Belfast’s best-loved pizza restaurants, had opened on Antrim Road, we couldn’t wait to try it.
Orto is already a go-to place for pizza in Belfast city centre, so the news that they were expanding their empire right across from Madigan’s filling station and supermarket was music to our ears.
We booked for 7:30 on a sunny Saturday evening and arrived to find it buzzing with diners. For those who remember La Cuisine, Orto has transformed the same space into something fresh and inviting.
A Warm and Welcoming Space
The entrance is wheelchair and pram friendly, with a sloped ramp, lower-level tables, and a raised area at the back.
Inside, the décor is bright and fresh – lots of greenery, white walls, and signature round paper lampshades in a variety of sizes.
The backlit bar offers plenty of drinks, with an excellent cocktail list. Staff were warm, friendly, and attentive, setting the perfect tone for the evening.
Drinks and Starters
We started with a refreshing bottle of Portuguese Casa do Lago, ideal for a summer evening.
For starters, Orto serves a tempting range of breads, light bites, and their famous crispy lasagne bites – which were a hit.
Pizza, the Orto Way
The menu is extensive, with more variety than most pizza chains, yet always focused on quality.
- I opted for a red-based pizza topped with goats cheese, broccoli, and roquito peppers.
- Mum ordered the Hawaiian, made with roasted ham hock and pineapple – delicious!
- My other half went for a red pizza with vodka sauce, roast chicken, and mushroom, minus the cheese – equally fantastic.
Every bite was full of flavour, and it was clear that Orto has mastered the art of pizza-making while keeping the menu creative.
Saving Room for Dessert
Although we were full, we couldn’t resist dessert.
We ordered the Chocolate Chip Bread & Butter Pudding and a Hot Cinnamon Swirl – and they were worth every bite.
A Neighbourhood Favourite
With full bellies and happy hearts, we walked home from our new local Orto, grateful to have such a fantastic restaurant within walking distance.
If you ever tire of trying to hail a taxi on a Saturday night in Belfast, Orto on Antrim Road is the answer – and what a happy ending that is.
🍕 Orto Pizza – Antrim Road, Belfast
Fresh, creative pizzas and warm hospitality – right in the heart of North Belfast.
