Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital city is the perfect choice for a long weekend away. There’s so much to see and do, from Titanic Belfast and the Ulster Museum to the Cathedral Quarter with its buzzy bar scene. Northern Ireland produces incredible beef, seafood, cheese and whiskey (to name but a few) so food lovers are in for a treat. You can sample local produce at St George’s Market, pick up gourmet gifts in Sawers deli, or take the excellent Belfast Food Tour.
Where to eat: For special occasions, you can dine in the stunning surroundings of The Great Room at The Merchant Hotel or sample inventive dishes at award-winners like OX and Deanes Eipic. Local favourites like The Barking Dog, Hadskis, and the Ginger Bistro are all good options if you’re looking for laid-back vibes and menus that champion seasonal ingredients. If you’re in the mood for steak, James St. and Deanes Meat Locker serve some of the best beef in town.
Don’t miss: Don’t leave town without trying the famous Ulster Fry – a hearty Northern Irish breakfast that adds potato bread, soda bread, and black and white pudding to the classic fry-up. Try it for yourself at Bright’s, Maggie May’s, or Harlem Café.
Where to drink: If you can tear yourself away from the Merchant Hotel’s award-winning cocktail and jazz bars, try the historic Crown Liquor Saloon, The Spaniard, or the The John Hewitt (a top spot for live music). Henry’s and Pug Ugly’s are top spots for pints and pub grub, while cocktail enthusiasts can find creative drinks made with locally produced spirits at Margot, Rita’s, and rooftop hangout Babel. In the Cathedral Quarter, you’ll find live music seven nights a week at The Dirty Onion, plus ‘clucking good’ rotisserie chicken upstairs at Yardbird.
Have we missed your favourite? Let us know in the comments or visit OpenTable to discover more great restaurants in Belfast.
Updated October 2021.
