Top Blade Steakhouse to sizzle on North Coast with new seafront venue!

Peter Rainey (centre) with Top Blade Directors, Aaron Taggart (left) and John Crawford (right) announcing the launch of the brand's newest venue in Portrush.

Portrush is set to welcome a major addition to its vibrant dining scene as Northern Ireland’s beloved steakhouse chain, Top Blade, prepares to open its third location on the North Coast.

Backed by a £350,000 investment, the new restaurant will create 20 jobs and bring the brand’s signature bold flavours to a prime seafront spot, just in time for the busy summer season and the return of The Open to Royal Portrush in July 2025.

The new venue, situated in the premises currently occupied by Koko’s, will undergo a complete transformation to become a 70-seat restaurant boasting unrivalled views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Known for its vibrant atmosphere and extensive menu featuring 15 varieties of locally sourced steaks, Top Blade is poised to become a standout dining destination in the heart of Portrush.

Director Aaron Taggart expressed enthusiasm about the expansion, stating:

“We’ve been keen to expand to the North Coast for some time but were waiting for the right location. Now the timing feels right and the premises are ideal, it’s been a stroke of luck that we are coinciding with such a busy summer season and we’re looking forward to welcoming so many visitors to this wonderful part of the world.”

Peter Rainey with Top Blade Directors, Aaron Taggart (centre) and John Crawford (right) announcing the launch of the brand's newest venue in Portrush.

The new restaurant will retain existing Koko’s staff where possible while building a robust team to deliver the Top Blade experience.

“This site gives us the opportunity to create something really special, not just in terms of food, but also in setting. A seafront restaurant with uninterrupted views of the Atlantic isn’t something you come by often!” Taggart added.

A Sizzling Addition to Portrush’s Culinary Scene

Already a firm favourite in Belfast and Portadown, Top Blade has built a reputation for “no-fuss food done well, (but not well done!).”

The Portrush location will continue this ethos, offering an extensive menu that showcases the widest variety of steaks in Northern Ireland, paired with expertly crafted sides and sauces.

With its prime location and commitment to quality, the restaurant is expected to draw both locals and the influx of visitors anticipated during The Open and the bustling summer season.

Fellow Director John Crawford highlighted the ambition behind the new venture:

“This is a big move for us, and we’re ambitious about it. With this new opening, we’re aiming to serve up to 100,000 steaks a year across our three locations.

“We’re proud of our ethos, great steaks, sides and sauces, served with simplicity and flair, and we’re confident it’ll be a welcome addition to the Portrush dining scene.”

The timing of the opening aligns perfectly with Portrush’s growing status as a hospitality hub. With several new businesses opening in the area and thousands expected to visit for The Open, the town is cementing its place as a must-visit destination on the North Coast.

Top Blade is set to play a significant role in this transformation, offering a dining experience that combines culinary excellence with a stunning coastal backdrop.

Jobs and Economic Boost for Portrush

The £350,000 investment in the new restaurant will not only elevate Portrush’s dining offerings but also provide a significant economic boost through the creation of 20 new jobs in the local hospitality sector.

This move underscores Top Blade’s commitment to supporting the communities in which it operates, with a focus on retaining local staff and fostering a welcoming environment for both employees and diners.

Bookings and Updates

While bookings for the new Portrush location are not yet open, anticipation is already building, with tables expected to fill up quickly once reservations are available. Diners eager to secure a spot can stay updated by visiting www.topblade.co.uk or following Top Blade on social media at @TopBladeSteakhouse.

As Portrush prepares for a landmark summer, Top Blade’s arrival promises to add a sizzling new chapter to the town’s culinary story, offering a unique blend of quality dining and breathtaking seafront views.