Best Fine Dining in Belfast

"The Great Room Restaurant at The Merchant Hotel is one of Northern Ireland’s most exquisite restaurants. Though known for its evening fine dining menus, the Great Room is open daily for breakfast from 7am to 10am (10.30am on weekends and bank holidays) and offers an exceptional continental and cooked breakfast menu. Enjoy a classic full Irish breakfast with back bacon, local sausage, black pudding, soda farl and potato bread; or indulge a sweet tooth with buttermilk pancakes, bacon and maple syrup."

"To dine within the gorgeous opulent surroundings of The Merchant Hotel is a must for any foodie. There are decadent tasting menus as well as a more modest pre-theatre menu to pick from."

"With its striking exterior and exposed brick interior, Howard Street is a treat for the eyes as well as the taste buds. With a tempting (and reasonably priced) pre-theatre menu, as well as lunch and a la carte, there is something to suit all budgets. The kitchen focuses on full-flavored dishes using local ingredients and the quality really is top-notch."

"Vegetarian menu >> Howard Street serves up full flavoured dishes created from the current season’s ingredients, sourced locally by their chefs. Vegetarian dishes include curried risotto, wild mushroom linguine and potato and caramelised onion gratin."

"Howard Street is knocking date nights out of the park with its gorgeous blend of sultry decor and mouthwatering plates. Head here for cosy corners where seasonal produce and quirky cocktails reign supreme."

"If gothic grandeur is more to your taste, book a table in the Victorian oak-panelled dining room at the five-star Culloden Estate and Spa. The dining style here is described as ‘gourmet chic’, but despite its find dining credentials and formal setting, it’s an excellent choice for both families and couples. Adults can enjoy modern Irish cuisine, with their three course fine dining set menu, accompanied by views over the Belfast lough."

"Completed in 1857, the building has been used by various governmental departments, including the Belfast Board of Works, the Inland Revenue, and an Income Tax Office. Designed in 1847 by English architect Charles Lanyon and finished in 1857 at a cost of £30,000. Throughout the years the building has undergone numerous alterations."

"Designed by architect Charles Lanyon, who designed numerous buildings across Belfast, Queen’s University’s gothic Lanyon Building is well worth a visit. Not an inch of this architecturally magnificent building would be out of place on the set of Harry Potter, making it a must for keen photographers. Don’t forget to venture through the entrance hall to photograph Galileo, who stands just through the main doors of the building."

"Part of Queens University on the first floor of the Lanyon Building, The Naughton Gallery is is an exciting visual arts space showcasing a rolling programme of contemporary exhibitions. Past artists include Adham Faramawy, Marie Jacotey, Aidan Koch and Locky Morris. It was founded to display the University collection of artworks, sculptures, furniture and silver that were gifts, bequests and purchases."

"Northern Ireland's most prestigious university was founded by Queen Victoria in 1845. In 1908 the Queen's College became the Queen's University of Belfast and today its campus spreads across some 250 buildings...."

"Recently reopened after a £2 million remodelling, this excellent aquarium has displays of marine life from Strangford Lough and the Irish Sea as well as tropical fish, otters and a new reptile centre with an African Nile crocodile, geckos and snakes. There's also a touch pool for kids and a seal sanctuary where orphaned, sick and injured seals are nursed back to health before being released into the wild. Last admission is 4.30pm in summer and 4pm in winter."

"Ormeau Park is a historic parkland overlooking the River Lagan with pleasant walks around the area. Walks start from the car park next to the Recreation Centre (toilets and refreshment stop here!) and sports pitches. The route goes through mature woodland, formal gardens and a wildflower meadow, passing the Superintendent’s House and former walled garden on the way."

"The oldest and largest municipal park in Belfast, Ormeau Park has been a huge draw for locals and visitors alike since it opened in 1871. Ormeau is filled with activities, from sports to BMX trails, walking tracks, and even a hiking trail for those who want to do a bit of orienteering."

"Ulster Sports Club is home to pool tables, live sports screenings and epic gigs. You could literally spend all day here, with craft beers and deep fried bites before the night really kicks off."

"This quirky Irish pub serves a range of local and international beers available on draught, bottles, cans or even in buckets!. An exciting line-up of entertainment through the week includes live music, comedy nights, quizzes and sports screens. There are daily food offering, such as Taco Tuesdays famous Pug’s sourdough pizzas served every day from 12pm."