Belfast’s burgeoning food scene is set to receive an exciting new addition with the launch of HALT, a dynamic street food market opening on July 8, 2025, at the former Europa Buscentre. Positioned as a vibrant destination for food, drink, culture, and entertainment, HALT will bring a fresh, diverse culinary experience to the heart of the city. This innovative market features a dedicated bar and a blend of indoor and outdoor containers designed to create a lively atmosphere where visitors can enjoy a wide array of local and international food offerings. The project is part of the larger Weavers Cross regeneration scheme, which aims to revitalize the area around the former bus centre and the new Belfast Grand Central Station, ultimately contributing to the creation of up to 40 new jobs.

Among the first wave of food vendors confirmed for HALT is Bodega Bagels, a Belfast-based bagel shop known for blending traditional New York-style bagel-making with local flair. Established in 2021, Bodega Bagels hand-rolls, boils, and bakes its bagels fresh daily, offering an enticing menu that includes classic varieties like Sesame, Everything, and Jalapeño Cheddar, alongside monthly creative specials such as Sea Salt Basil and Cinnamon Crunch French Toast. Their offerings also extend to boulder cookies and a range of hot and cold drinks, catering to varied tastes including vegetarian and vegan options. Bodega Bagels has already established a presence in Belfast with two locations: one at Banana Block in East Belfast and another on Royal Avenue in the city centre.

The inclusion of Bodega Bagels at HALT underscores the market’s dedication to providing a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, reflecting the vibrant food culture emerging in Belfast. The market also boasts other vendors like Franky's Lasagneria, Root & Branch Coffee, and Katsu Kitchen, ensuring a wide variety of flavours and culinary styles. As the former Europa Buscentre site transitions into HALT, the temporary closure that began in late June will make way for this fresh communal hub, which is anticipated to invigorate the local economy and social life.

The wider Weavers Cross redevelopment, valued at approximately £500 million, aims to transform this part of Belfast comprehensively with around 1.5 million square feet of mixed-use developments planned. HALT, as a ‘meanwhile-use’ project, serves a dual purpose by activating the space while longer-term plans for the area are finalised. This strategy reflects a growing trend in urban regeneration where vibrant, temporary initiatives can foster community engagement and economic activity, setting a positive precedent for what’s to come.

For locals and visitors alike, HALT promises not only an array of exciting food and drink options but also a space celebrating culture and social connection. The addition of beloved vendors like Bodega Bagels brings a taste of New York-inspired culinary craftsmanship straight to Belfast’s city centre, amplifying the city's reputation as a destination for quality, diverse street food.