Here at Cruise we understand that in the midst of shopping in the bustling city of Belfast you may just want to stop and enjoy a spot of lunch. Thankfully we have picked five of our favourite gastro pubs so you can stop and refuel in the confidence that you will enjoy a heartily classic meal right in the heart of the city.
THE CROWN LIQUOR SALOON
46 Great Victoria Street, Belfast, BT2 7BA
Come to The Crown for a traditional pub with a quirky and unique character. Enjoy its eclectic range of real ales and classic pub food all served with a good measure of Irish hospitality. An outstanding example of a Victorian gin palace, The Crown is one of Northern Ireland’s best-known pubs and is frequented by both locals and tourists who enjoy a classic British meal in one of the pubs cosy booths.
3 Hill Street, Belfast, BT1 2LA
Stop for lunch at The Dirty Onion, one of Belfast’s oldest buildings restored as a traditional public house with a contemporary twist. Home to Yardbird free range chicken, you can enjoy either whole, half or quarter of a chicken with an assortment of sides and a delicious desert! If you’re around later on in the evening, why not drop by and enjoy some live music with a glass of wine, or a pint of beer or cider?
51 Donegall Street, Belfast, BT1 2FH
Named after the late poet, socialist and Freeman of Belfast, The John Hewitt first opened its doors in 1999 to help fund the Belfast Unemployed Resource Centre. Bask in the small, cosy atmosphere whilst enjoying a meal from a menu offering Asian, European, Irish and seafood cuisine. Renowned for its brilliant and lively atmosphere, The John Hewitt offers a selection of real ales plus regular, live traditional Irish music.
1 College Green Mews, Botanic Ave, Belfast BT7 1LW
This compact courtyard restaurant in converted Victorian stables is located in the heart of Queen’s University Quarter. Here at Molly’s Yard you can enjoy superb modern Irish cuisine from 12-5pm in a relaxed and charming atmosphere that makes you feel far from the buzz of the city.
17-19 Pottingers Entry, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 4DT
A particularly cosy 19th century alehouse located in a romantic old Entry, the Morning Star Bar is easily identified by the grand Victorian sign jutting out from the historically listed building. The downstairs bar has maintained its lovely old character and boasts the original mahogany counter with its old terrazzo floor. The Morning Star also offers quite an eclectic menu - kangaroo and crocodile steaks, along with emu, ostrich and bison being among some of the dishes on offer – but for the fainter hearted traditional food is also available!
(Written by Megan Chambers)