A Peculiar Tea
Where afternoon tea becomes a story-driven escape into imagination and culinary wonder.
A Peculiar Tea is a whimsical afternoon tea and tasting menu restaurant in Belfast, created by Chef Gemma Austin as an escape into imagination and playfulness. Located on University Road, this Modern European establishment transforms traditional afternoon tea into a story-driven experience with themed menus that evoke nostalgia and wonder. The restaurant operates with a strong commitment to sustainability, ethical sourcing, and creating a joyful kitchen environment where food becomes an art form.
A brief summary to A Peculiar Tea
- 44 University Rd, Belfast, BT7 1NJ, GB
- +447513069697
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Wednesday 12 pm-3 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-3 pm
- Friday 12 pm-3 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-3 pm
Local tips
- Book afternoon tea at least 48 hours in advance, as everything is prepared fresh to order. Themed menus change regularly, so each visit offers a completely different experience.
- If you have dietary requirements, state them clearly at booking. Gluten-free and vegetarian afternoon teas are available, but vegan and dairy-free options are not currently offered.
- The evening tasting menu is a fixed seven-course experience with no modifications—embrace the chef's vision and trust in her creative direction for the full experience.
- Note that disabled access toilets are not available at the restaurant, so plan accordingly if accessibility is a concern.
- Children are welcome at afternoon tea, but evening service is restricted to ages 16 and older due to the nature of the tasting menu.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
A Peculiar Tea location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about A Peculiar Tea
A Kitchen Built on Imagination and Joy
A Peculiar Tea was born from Chef Gemma Austin's philosophy that kitchens should be places of creativity and family rather than stress and shouting. Known to friends as a female Peter Pan, Gemma channels the magic of children's imaginations into every dish, creating an atmosphere where nostalgia and playfulness reign supreme. The restaurant's name itself signals its departure from convention—this is not your grandmother's afternoon tea, nor is it a conventional fine-dining establishment. Instead, it exists in a magical space where food tells stories and diners are invited to step into a world of wonder.Themed Menus That Tell Stories
The heart of A Peculiar Tea lies in its themed afternoon tea service, served from noon to 2:45 PM, featuring sweet treats, finger sandwiches, and scones that match an overarching narrative. Each visit presents a different theme, ensuring that repeat guests encounter entirely new culinary stories. The evening tasting menu, available from 5 PM to 9 PM, consists of seven courses that cannot be modified, demanding that diners surrender to the chef's vision and trust in her creative direction. This commitment to the tasting menu format reflects Gemma's belief that food should be experienced as a complete artistic statement rather than a series of individual preferences.Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing at the Core
A Peculiar Tea operates under a strict no-waste policy and refuses to serve foods deemed over-farmed or ethically questionable. Foie gras, eel, and lobster will never appear on the menu. Instead, the restaurant sources only the finest British and Irish meat and partners with local suppliers for all fresh ingredients. This commitment to sustainability and animal welfare is not a marketing angle but a fundamental principle woven into every menu decision. Diners can enjoy their meal knowing that every ingredient reflects careful ethical consideration.Accommodating Dietary Needs with Creativity
While the tasting menu cannot be altered due to its artistic nature, A Peculiar Tea offers gluten-free and vegetarian afternoon tea options, with 48 hours' notice required to ensure everything is made fresh. A children's afternoon tea is available for those under 14 at £20 per child. However, the evening tasting menu is restricted to guests aged 16 and older, as the seven-course experience is designed for mature palates. All dietary requirements must be stated at the time of booking to ensure proper accommodation.The Space and Atmosphere
Located at 44 University Road in Belfast's university quarter, A Peculiar Tea occupies a space that feels removed from everyday reality. The restaurant's design and presentation reinforce its theme-driven approach, with each visit offering a fresh visual and sensory experience. The intimate setting encourages guests to engage fully with the narrative unfolding on their plates, making afternoon tea or dinner a complete immersive experience rather than a simple meal.A Destination for the Imaginative Diner
A Peculiar Tea appeals to those seeking more than sustenance—it caters to diners who view eating as an act of imagination and storytelling. Whether enjoying a whimsical afternoon tea or committing to an evening tasting menu, guests enter Chef Gemma Austin's playground, where food becomes a vehicle for wonder, nostalgia, and joy. The restaurant's philosophy that "food should be fun" permeates every aspect of the experience, from menu conception to kitchen culture to the final plate presented to the guest.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lord Kelvin Statue
0.3 km
Celebrate the legacy of Belfast’s own Lord Kelvin with this striking bronze statue set in the historic Botanic Gardens.
Shaftesbury Square
0.4 km
A historic and bustling junction in Belfast where Victorian heritage meets vibrant modern city life.
Frederick Temple Memorial
1.2 km
A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
Belfast City Hall Tours
1.2 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
1.3 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
1.3 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
1.3 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich mythology of Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, through guided tours and immersive experiences.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
1.3 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
1.3 km
Discover the heart of Belfast with a free walking tour that unveils the city's history, culture, and hidden gems through the eyes of local guides.
The Back Of Boots
1.4 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Treasure Trails
1.4 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Alec the Goose
1.4 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Castle Buildings
1.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Numbers' Wall
1.7 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Unmissable attractions to see
Game of Thrones Tours
0.3 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Westeros with Game of Thrones Tours in Belfast, a must-visit for fans and nature lovers alike.
McCombs Coaches
0.4 km
Comfortable and engaging coach tours from Belfast to Northern Ireland’s iconic sights, including the Giant’s Causeway and historic castles.
Giants Causeway Tour
0.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and legendary charm of the Giant's Causeway on a guided tour from Belfast, a remarkable natural wonder not to be missed.
Ulster Museum
0.4 km
Explore the Ulster Museum, a stunning fusion of art, history, and natural beauty in the heart of Belfast's Botanic Gardens.
The Stroud Street Murals
0.4 km
Explore Belfast’s Stroud Street Murals—an open-air gallery celebrating punk heritage, urban wildlife, and creative innovation on vibrant Victorian walls.
George Best Mural
0.4 km
Celebrate the legacy of Belfast’s football icon with the vibrant George Best Mural, a cultural landmark honoring local pride and sporting greatness.
Botanic Gardens
0.4 km
Discover Belfast’s Victorian botanical gem with stunning glasshouses, vibrant gardens, and rich cultural heritage in a serene 28-acre urban oasis.
Robinsons Bar
1.0 km
Discover Robinsons Bar in Belfast: a lively pub offering local brews, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Fibber Magee
1.0 km
Experience the heart of Belfast at Fibber Magee, a traditional Irish pub offering delicious food, local brews, and vibrant entertainment.
Ulster Hall
1.0 km
Belfast’s iconic Victorian concert hall blending rich history, legendary performances, and vibrant cultural life since 1862.
Royal Ulster Rifles Regimental Museum
1.0 km
Explore the rich military history of Northern Ireland at the Royal Ulster Rifles Regimental Museum, a captivating tribute to bravery and sacrifice.
Grand Opera House
1.0 km
Belfast’s magnificent Victorian theatre with an exquisite oriental-style auditorium, hosting world-class performances since 1895.
St Malachy's Church
1.1 km
Discover Belfast’s historic St Malachy's Church, famed for its Tudor Gothic style and breathtaking fan-vaulted ceiling inspired by Westminster Abbey.
Memorial to World War I and II soldiers
1.2 km
A solemn Portland stone cenotaph in Belfast’s Donegall Square honoring the heroic sacrifices of World War I and II soldiers.
Philly Pump / The Allotment
1.2 km
Innovative vegan and vegetarian bistro in Belfast offering fresh, locally sourced plant-based dishes in a welcoming, sustainable setting.
Essential places to dine
A Peculiar Tea
0.0 km
Where afternoon tea becomes a story-driven escape into imagination and culinary wonder.
Villa Italia
0.0 km
A beloved Belfast institution serving authentic Italian stone-baked pizzas and classic pasta dishes in a warm Georgian setting.
Holohan's Pantry
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Authentic Irish flavors with a contemporary twist in Belfast’s vibrant University Road dining scene.
Scalini
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy ambiance at Scalini, a beloved Italian restaurant on Belfast’s vibrant Botanic Avenue.
Molly's Yard
0.2 km
Discover modern Irish cuisine in a charming 19th-century stable block with cozy indoor dining and a peaceful courtyard in Belfast’s Queen’s Quarter.
Deanes at Queens
0.3 km
Experience modern European cuisine with Michelin-recognized quality in Belfast’s vibrant University Quarter, overlooking picturesque College Gardens.
Darcy's Belfast
0.4 km
A warm, family-run bistro serving hearty traditional Irish dishes with local ingredients in a cozy Belfast setting.
Causeway Cafe
0.4 km
Discover authentic Irish flavors at Causeway Cafe in Belfast—your cozy retreat for delicious meals and warm hospitality.
The Teal Monkey
0.6 km
A lively modern European restaurant in Belfast blending quirky decor, fresh flavors, and live music for a memorable dining experience.
Blank Restaurant
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The Ginger Bistro
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Hendrix Restaurant| Belfast
0.8 km
Modern fusion dining with Italian-Mexican flair, creative cocktails, and theatrical open kitchen on South Belfast's cultural corridor.
Hope Street Restaurant Belfast
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Fresh Northern Irish cuisine in an intimate Belfast setting, perfectly positioned for pre-theatre dining and special occasions.
Shu Restaurant Belfast
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Zen
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Olive & Rose Apparels
0.1 km
Explore the latest fashion trends at Olive & Rose Apparels, a stylish boutique in the heart of Belfast, offering unique clothing for every occasion.
Noor Bazaar
0.4 km
Discover handcrafted wonders and local souvenirs at Noor Bazaar, south Belfast's treasure trove on vibrant Sandy Row.
Great Northern Mall
0.9 km
Belfast's essential retail passage where shopping meets urban culture and community connection.
The Yard Shop - Furniture & Accessories
1.0 km
Discover Belfast’s charming Yard Shop, a treasure trove of antique and rustic furniture and home accessories that bring character to any space.
Norn Irish Gift Shop
1.3 km
Explore the heart of Irish culture at Norn Irish Gift Shop in Belfast, where unique souvenirs and artisan crafts await every traveler.
Carrolls Irish Gifts Belfast - Donegall Place
1.4 km
Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
Esik Creations
1.4 km
Explore Esik Creations in Belfast, where local artistry meets unique gifts for every occasion, perfect for tourists seeking authentic souvenirs.
Deja Vu
1.4 km
Discover Belfast’s premier boutique for exquisite pre-loved designer fashion and exceptional personal service on Lisburn Road.
Little Heart
1.4 km
Discover heartfelt wire art and whimsical keepsakes in Belfast's sole Victorian arcade—a boutique gem blending heritage charm with personal creativity.
Mooch Belfast - Arthur Street
1.4 km
Discover Belfast's creative heart at Mooch: unique local crafts, handmade treasures, and artisan gifts that bring Northern Ireland home with you.
Montblanc Boutique Belfast
1.4 km
German luxury craftsmanship in Belfast's Victorian arcade—where timeless elegance meets artisanal mastery.
AllSaints
1.5 km
Discover edgy, contemporary fashion and premium leather goods at AllSaints Belfast in Victoria Square, a stylish destination for modern wardrobe essentials.
New Look
1.5 km
Contemporary fashion retail in Belfast's premier shopping destination with extended hours and convenient services.
Boux Avenue
1.5 km
Discover affordable luxury lingerie and expert fittings in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Replay Store Belfast
1.5 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Woodworkers
0.3 km
Belfast's top rotating tap room: craft beers on rotation, timber warmth, board games, and platters in Queen's Quarter's lively heart.
Lavery's
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lavery's, Belfast's premier pub and comedy club, where great food, drinks, and entertainment await.
The Points
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Filthy McNastys
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Filthy McNastys: The Heart of Belfast's Nightlife with Live Music, Great Drinks, and Unforgettable Experiences Awaiting You.
Hatfield House
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Limelight Lounge
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Discover the excitement of live music and vibrant nightlife at Limelight Lounge, Belfast's premier bar for entertainment and good vibes.
Pug Uglys
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Belfast's go-to pub for gastropub grub, live gigs, comedy laughs, and sports cheers in a quirky, buzzing venue.
The Perch Rooftop Bar
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The Broken shaker Belfast
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Margot
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The Garrick
1.4 km
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Revolución de Cuba Belfast
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
Nancy Mulligans Bar & Kitchen
1.5 km
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Cutters Wharf
1.6 km
A stylish riverside bar and restaurant in Belfast blending modern European cuisine with lively entertainment and scenic river views.
Maddens
1.6 km
Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Unique
- Quirky
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Bohemian Styles
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
