Belfast restaurant set to relaunch with iconic chef at the helm

Michael O’Connor has cooked for high-profile guests like Hillary Clinton and Shania Twain

After more than 30 distinguished years in the culinary industry, celebrated Belfast chef Michael O’Connor is officially bringing the flavour and spirit of the famous The Barking Dog back to South Belfast’s BT9 district, joining the newly relaunched restaurant The Avenue Brasserie.

Michael will take the helm as Executive Head Chef at The Avenue Brasserie, located on Eglantine Avenue inside the newly redeveloped property, The Malone Hotel.

The launch follows a major multi-million-pound transformation of the historic South Belfast destination into a luxury boutique spot recently named among the UK’s top new hotel openings.

Michael originally opened The Barking Dog in 2008, running for 15 successful years in the heart of the community. The restaurant was built on consistent, exceptional London-and-gastropub-style dining focused on top-tier local produce.

Over the years, his cooking attracted high-profile guests, including Hillary Clinton, Shania Twain, and members of the Game of Thrones cast. Michael spent extensive time in a variety of other high-end, well-known restaurants and hotels in Belfast, Michael is ready to reignite South Belfast.

Speaking on his return to BT9 and new role, Michael O’Connor said: “I am absolutely thrilled to be bringing the heart and soul of what we achieved at The Barking Dog to The Avenue Brasserie. BT9 has a special energy, and this venue is the perfect home for my next chapter. I’m excited to join the Macklin family and the team at The Avenue Brasserie to bring top-tier local produce, crowd-pleasing small plates, and legendary comfort classics – cooked with the same passion that I always strive to bring to my dishes.”

Gareth Macklin, Director at The Malone Hotel, added: “This project marks the latest chapter in our ongoing journey of change and reimagination. Following our extensive refurbishment, bringing a chef of Michael’s calibre and local legend status into the kitchen at The Avenue Brasserie is a massive moment for us, for BT9, and for south Belfast hospitality scene as a whole.”

Michael’s 31-year career spans high-calibre international experience, including two years working under Marco Pierre White at London’s famed Mirabelle in Mayfair, and senior roles across top gastropubs in Chelsea and at The Gun in London’s Docklands.

His journey also took him to Sydney, Australia for two years, where he earned a prestigious Chef Hat in his first year.

The Avenue Brasserie is a relaxed neighbourhood spot focused on good food, welcoming service, and shared plates. Details on opening events will be posted on the Avenue Brasserie website in the coming weeks.

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