The Ulster University’s training restaurant has been named Grub Club Restaurant of the Year, joining previous winners such as The Merchant’s Great Room Restaurant, Deane’s, Shanks, James Street South and The Old School House.
The Academy is where those studying for a degree in culinary arts management and international hospitality management learn their craft.
The Grub Club is a private dining club which tracks down the best restaurants in Northern Ireland.
Professor Una McMahon-Beattie, Head of Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Ulster University said The Academy trained "the next generation of talented chefs and restauranteurs".
"We are extremely proud of our students and the passion and dedication they give to the restaurant. This award is a testament to their hard work and sees The Academy, and our students, join an elite club of some of the best restaurants in Belfast.”
Bill McCann from Grub Club said the organisation sought to "encourage young restauranteurs".
Callum Irwin is a final year Culinary Arts Management student and Chef de Partie at Michelin starred restaurant The Muddlers Club. He says working in The Academy has boosted his confidence and he plans to open a restaurant of his own one day.
The Academy is open during term time, serving lunch on weekdays from 12.30pm and dinner on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7pm.
