Business

Millar’s Brasserie opens in Gemma Austin’s former Belfast restaurant next to Queen’s University

New venue comes just weeks after Millar’s closed its Finaghy restaurant

Millar's Brasserie at 44 University Road, Belfast.
Millar's Brasserie at 44 University Road, Belfast.
By Ryan McAleer

Belfast restaurateurs Chris Millar and Matthew Roman-Wilkinson have opened their latest hospitality venture in a site next to Queen’s University in Belfast.

Millar’s Brasserie has taken over the former University Road premises vacated by Gemma Austin in July.

The former Great British Menu chef, who opened the south Belfast eatery in December 2021, went on to open Era Restaurant at the Hinch Distillery in Co Down.

The move by Millar’s effectively marks a relocation of their former Finaghy restaurant, which closed last month.

“Moving to University Road was a necessary business decision to ensure the survival and growth of Millar’s,” said executive head chef and co-founder Chris Millar.

Chris Millar and Matthew Roman-Wilkinson have taken on the premises of Gemma Austin's former south Belfast restaurant.
Chris Millar and Matthew Roman-Wilkinson have taken on the premises of Gemma Austin's former south Belfast restaurant.

“With rising costs, VAT, and rates placing immense pressure on hospitality, relocating to an area with higher footfall allows us to secure the future of the restaurant, extend our opening hours, and create more jobs,” he said.

“We’ve also employed classically French-trained head chef Aaron Donnelly and designed a menu that combines the best of our culinary heritage with exciting new dishes, ensuring there’s something for everyone.”

It comes just over a year after the opening of Millar’s Grill & Seafood next to the Belfast Waterfront.

The head chef said the city centre venue had exceeded their expectations.

“This move allows us to bring the best of both concepts together at Millar’s Brasserie.

Millar's Brasserie, which has opened at 44 University Road, Belfast.
Millar's Brasserie, which has opened at 44 University Road, Belfast.

“The new menu reflects everything we’ve learned, blending familiar favourites with bold new flavours, and we’re excited to welcome both our loyal diners and new faces in this thriving part of Belfast.”

His co-founder, Matthew Roman-Wilkinson, added: “When we discovered this unit, we were instantly drawn to its charm and prime location in the heart of Belfast’s Queen’s Quarter.

“It felt like the perfect space to bring our vision to life and create something truly special.”