Stunningly located close to the arts theatre in the heart of Armagh City, this well established favourite moved down to the busy area at the bottom of Marketplace Hill in 2015 - and came into the ownership of Gavin Emerson the following year.
Now enjoying the reverse view up the steep market ‘square’ to the handsome modern theatre and the Church of Ireland Cathedral that is set protectively above the 'square', Uluru may be much bigger than the quirky restaurant that established the name, but the fundamentals of good food and service are stiill to be found at this impressive two-storey premises. The head chef, Armagh man Mark McGonigle, worked with the original owner Dean Coppard for 12 years before taking over the kitchen here and it was a well planned changeover, ensuring that menus still offer the authentic 'Australian twist' that has always been its USP.
The much larger modern space - a buzzy ground floor restaurant and a bar on the first floor - brought a change of tone, of course, but aboriginal artwork and carvings still feature.
Uluru lays claim to being Northern Ireland’s only Australian restaurant and was certainly the first but, with the exception of exotics, menus are based mainly on local produce although there is less detail on suppliers than formerly.
Australian influences remain in the house specialities, including kangaroo, and a Josper Charcoal Grill gives many dishes their unique flavour, notably steaks and a range of burgers, and there are also stone baked pizzas and some Asian-influenced dishes.
Uluru which, incidentally, takes its name from the aboriginal name for the world-famous Ayer’s Rock (which, like the restaurant, changes through the day), has a well earned reputation for good food, customer focused service and a relaxed ambience.
The service style is casual and very friendly, as befits an Australian restaurant, and ably supervised by the restaurant manager, Donna Lloyd. Well trained staff have good knowledge of the menu as well as a comprehensive drinks list. This a popular and busy spot and reservations are recommended, especially in the evenings.
