Eateries in Belfast have among the lowest food hygiene scores in all of Northern Ireland, while Derry pubs, cafes and restaurants score best, according to the latest data.
Data from the Food Standards Agency show a stark contrast between the two cities.
Of the 1072 venues which fall under the categories of ‘Pub/Bar Nightclub’ and ‘Restaurant/Cafe/Canteen’ in Belfast – 2% of the total (22) were ranked at two stars or less.
The number of venues that ranked at two stars or less in Belfast was the highest percentage of any council area in Northern Ireland.
The Derry City and Strabane council area achieved the best possible score – with no venues scoring less than three stars.
Under the Food Standards Agency ratings, a two star rating means that ‘some improvement is necessary’, while a one star decrees that a ‘major improvement’ is needed.
A zero star rating mandates ‘urgent improvement’.
Derry and Belfast are on an equal footing when it comes to the percentage of venues that scored 5 stars – the highest rating possible in the chart.
Both cities had around 68% of their bars and restaurants reaching the 5 star mark.
Derry City and Strabane was one of only two council areas – the other being Fermanagh and Omagh – where no premises in our chosen categories received two stars or less.
Across Northern Ireland, food hygiene standards remain generally high, with most councils reporting strong performances.
Mid Ulster ranks particularly well, with 85% of its 368 inspected venues achieving 5 stars, and only two establishments rated two stars or less.
Meanwhile, Newry, Mourne and Down boasts an impressive 84% 5-star ratings, with just under 1% receiving low ratings.
The Causeway Coast and Glens council area also demonstrates good hygiene standards, with over 80% of its 406 food businesses rated 5 stars, though four venues require improvements having received two stars or less.
Other councils such as Lisburn and Castlereagh City and Mid and East Antrim maintain consistent hygiene levels, with around 81-83% of venues receiving 5 stars and very few rated poorly.
In Antrim and Newtownabbey, just under 76% of establishments hold the highest hygiene rating, with a tiny proportion falling below three stars.
Ards and North Down and Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon also reflect a majority of high ratings, with about 78% of venues scoring 5 stars and only minimal low ratings recorded.